Philly

Brian Robinson
May 30
3 min read

This month finds me between homes, crashing on my son’s couch in Philadelphia’s

Point Breeze neighborhood. He’s a good kid for letting his old man stay for a few weeks

while I prepare for an extended trip abroad. Last week, after completing my packing, I

found myself with some free time and decided to explore a bit of the city.

The vibe that Philly is currently the place to be is impossible to miss, as the city is

polishing itself for its starring role in America’s upcoming “Sestercentennial” celebration.

The big question is, where to begin? With nearly six million people in the Philadelphia

metro area and over 140 square miles of city to explore, America’s first capital can be

quite overwhelming. When I arrive in a new place, I tend to start close to home and

gradually expand my comfort zone as I become more familiar with my surroundings.

That approach led me to discover that just a ten-minute walk places me right in the

heart of Philly’s vibrant “Italian Market” neighborhood.

The Italian Market Neighborhood

Located in South Philadelphia, the Italian Market neighborhood takes its name from the

large district on South 9th Street. The market has been a hub of commerce and

community since the late 19th century. Originally settled by Italian immigrants seeking a

supportive community, the neighborhood quickly evolved into a vibrant center for culture and cuisine.

Here, open-air stalls sold everything from fresh produce and meats to cheeses and seafood—much as they still do today. Over the decades, the market has grown and diversified, reflecting Philadelphia’s own evolution. Despite urban renewal and shifting demographics, the Italian Market remains a testament to immigrant resilience and entrepreneurship. Generations of families have passed down their businesses, keeping old-world traditions alive while adapting to current tastes and trends. Today, the market is celebrated not only for its Italian roots but also for its rich multicultural flavor—a living monument to the enduring spirit of South Philly.

The Palizzi Social Club

In the heart of the Italian Market neighborhood, just a few blocks from the main street,

stands a modest row house with a plain green door. Behind that door is the Palizzi

Social Club, one of the city’s most exclusive clubs. Since 1918, “The Palizzi” has been a

place that doesn’t need a sign—its reputation is etched into the lives of those who grew

up around it and those fortunate enough to be welcomed inside.

Founded by immigrants from Vasto, Italy, who brought not only their language and

customs but also a deep sense of camaraderie, the club originally served as a gathering

spot for newcomers—sharing the flavors of home and navigating the trials of settling in

a new country. Over a century later, the club remains a sanctuary—a reminder that even

amid a constantly changing world, some traditions stay steadfast.

Coincidentally, just as I arrived in Philadelphia, the club announced it was accepting 100

new members for the first time in two years. Once these slots are filled, membership will

close again until 2027. But what makes this 107-year-old Italian club so captivating and

one of the city’s hottest draws? I had to find out.

A Unique Recruitment Approach

The club’s method for recruiting new members is unorthodox. No letters of

recommendation or family connections are required. You don’t even need to be Italian

or from the local community. All that’s needed is a desire to join, a $20 membership fee

(cash only), and a willingness to abide by the club’s strict decorum: no photos, no

blogging, no reviews, and no social media tagging. Essentially, the club becomes a

“black box” once you gain entry.

On a rainy Thursday morning in May, I observe a line of hopefuls that started forming

before 6 a.m., eager to secure a spot. Despite only the first 25 people over four

Thursdays in May receiving a “golden ticket” to membership, over 100 are waiting this

morning. The reasons for wanting to join vary. Many seek access to what’s regarded as

some of the best traditional Italian food in the city. Others want access to the exclusive

upstairs “Presidents Club” bar and the late-night hours at Palizzi, which run well past

Philadelphia’s typical bar and restaurant closing times. A young woman expressed hope

of “meeting a nice Italian boy” after feeling frustrated with online dating.

The diversecrowd includes elderly Italian matrons, young professionals, firefighters from nearby,African Americans, gay men, couples in their 30s—a broad spectrum of the city’s

residents. Nearly everyone mentions a desire to connect with people beyond the

confines of social media.