How many times have you stumbled into a Dunkin’ or Starbucks to find a group of older adults at a table playing cards, reading the newspaper or just having animated conversations? These well-known coffee chains are a great place to gather, but South Philly is a goldmine for the cafe community. While this is not an exhaustive list, here are a few spots where you can chat with friends (or make new ones) over a delicious cup of joe, tea or a pastry.
Cake and Joe – 1401 E. Moyamensing Ave.
With delicious desserts, teas and coffees (plus plenty of seating), Cake and Joe makes for a great morning stop (or sit). From breakfast sandwiches to lunch and a few muffins in between, you cannot make a bad choice at this delicious cafe.
Homegrown 215 – 1515 W. Porter St.
OK, if you frequent this gem west of Broad, you know the indoor seating is intimate. However, the tables and chairs outside make for a delightful gathering spot for friends and neighbors. With plenty of regulars and a very diverse food and drink menu, you’re bound to discover your new favorite go-to at this local spot.
Ultimo Coffee – 1900 S. 15th St.
A little ways north, you will find Ultimo Coffee. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Ultimo Coffee is full of friendly faces, diverse clientele and plenty of seating. Whether you want to people watch or play a game of cards with friends, Ultimo is a fun and tasty spot. Outdoor seating is also available.
Holy Cannoli! Cafe – 1716 Jackson St.
Settle the debate of who makes the best cannoli in South Philly after visiting Holy Cannoli! Cafe. Holy Cannoli is a female-owned and operated café, standing apart from conventional coffee shops by reimagining traditional cannoli. Oh, and they have board games on site, too!
Dawn Cafe – 2237 Grays Ferry Ave.
Make the trip a little west and try Dawn Cafe Philly. This cozy neighborhood spot boasts indoor and outdoor seating and the best Burek (savory pastry) west of Broad. Bring your paper and your friends for a great homey experience.
Two Persons Coffee – 821 Dudley St. (In the Bok building)
A hidden gem of sorts, Two Persons Coffee offers a selection of regional and international rotating coffee roasters and plenty of seating. The menu is simple and there is comfortable seating. If you run out of things to talk about, look over your shoulder at The Machine Shop to start an engaging conversation.
Anthony’s Italian Coffee House – 903 S. 9th St.
Venture to the Italian Market for a selection of cafes, but be sure to spend quality time at Anthony’s, a quintessential spot for reminiscing about the Philadelphia of the past. With a rich Italian history dating to 1906, this coffee house was built from blood, sweat and sheer determination. The family legacy started with a produce pushcart and transformed into the first coffee house in the Italian Market to open in nearly 50 years. Still today you will find mamma setting up the coffee house in the early hours of morning, greeting the day’s first customers and sharing her thoughts of family and tradition, while sipping her morning latte on the deck, where her father-in-law’s pushcart was once parked.
Chapterhouse Cafe and Gallery – 620 S. 9th St.
Let’s say Anthony’s is packed. Why not head to Chapterhouse Cafe and Gallery? This cafe offers a wide variety of well-made drinks and healthy eats. With plenty of seating on the main floor, in the basement and outside, Chapterhouse is a great spot for socializing. The beautiful artwork will make a great discussion topic in the middle of your Scopa or Briscola game.
Rival Bros Coffee – 1100 Tasker St.
Hailed for its amazing coffee and welcoming atmosphere, Rival Bros Coffee is an ideal spot for breakfast and coffee with friends. Rival Bros has indoor and outdoor seating right across from the Singing Fountain, giving you the opportunity to watch people walk by, venture to the fountain with your friends or enjoy the bustling atmosphere inside.
Before you get upset that your favorite spot is not in this roundup, please know this is not a conclusive list of every little cafe in South Philly. However, spots such as Herman’s and Three Graces Coffee Company offer limited seating for your morning “meetings.” There are also some great spots just north of Washington Ave. ••
What is your go-to spot for friendly chats and games with friends?
