Sometimes we stumble upon places that feel like a gift. Stina’s Pizzeria is such a place. Out with a friend on a summer evening walk on the west side of Passyunk Ave. in South Philadelphia, we realized we were both hungry but not in the mood to go home and cook. Noticing party lights and red patio umbrellas a block ahead, we moved towards them.
Closer, Mediterranean music and conversation livened the city block. No reservation - no problem (but I wouldn’t count on that - I imagine this place gets packed!). A friendly server sat us and noted that we could buy beer across the street (BYOB). I asked instead about the iced Moroccan mint tea and he brought out small glasses to taste - just sweet enough and so refreshing.
The menu offers an enticing blend of, yes, pizza (which is incredible - we shared a Fungi with exotic mushrooms roasted garlic, thyme and mozzarella) but also the best spanakopita I’ve ever tasted (award-winning chef Bobby Saritsoglou’s Greek heritage clearly an influence - he co-owns the restaurant with his community activist/organizer wife Christina Kallas-Saritsoglou), octopus slow-cooked for 3 hours then oven-crisped with olive tapenade. Also, almond romesco, olive purée and black garlic, and pide (Turkish bread baked with fillings like spiced North African Sausage or Tallegio and Truffles), as well as seasonal desserts. The couple's goal of providing “a social and cultural hub with fresh, seasonal and affordable food in the neighborhood” is clearly succeeding: reasonable prices, a vibrant atmosphere and culinary pleasures.
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
by
Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
by
The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park in Philly (known by locals as the Bio Pond) was University of Penn’s first botanic garden. Makes for a romantic date...
by
"The Modern Republic" in Philadelphia is a midcentury modern home decor shop that is colorful, ebullient, high-ceilinged, and tastefully curated!
by
"Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood" in Philadelphia is 36-feet-large and portrays the early 21st-century LGBTQ+ icon that's conquered the world...
by
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
by
"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
by
Beer lovers have lots to celebrate in Philadelphia! Enter "ARS Brewery", a South Philly Garage Brewery (complete in an old garage and visible distillery).
by
These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
by
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
by
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
by
"Sally" in Philadelphia is a casual and friendly restaurant that's also been named the Best New Restaurant of 2021...
by
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips