FYI Philly: 100 Years of the Italian Market

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- FYI Philly visited some vendors at the Italian Market that have been around since the beginning, and some newcomers who are poised to make their mark.

Before the Italian Market got its start 100 years ago, Isgro's Bakery was on Christian Street in South Philadelphia, making it the oldest Italian pastry shop in the market.

Gus Isgro's grandfather opened the location in 1904, and his culinary skills have been passed down through four generations.

The pastry shop has everything from cookies to cakes and, of course, cannolis! Isgro said a cannoli made at the shop's inception is the same way it's made today. He said the secret is red wine in the shell.

Coeur, which means "heart" in French, is a new business on the block which likes to keep things fresh. Co-owner Brendan Hartranft said the Italian Market always seemed like a good fit for them.

The dishes served include brisket and half rotisserie chicken.

"It's just really nice things that are done really well at really classic preparation," said Hartranft.

Also adding a new look to the market is Restaurant Neuf.

"We went with Neuf for 9th street. It's nine in French and it also means new. So it's kind of something new and it's on 9th street," said chef and owner Johncarl Lachman.

From the owners of the popular East Passyunk restaurant, Noord, chef Lachman pours himself into the North African inspired French bistro.

"It's very much about welcoming, about sharing plates, just kind of relaxing and eating the food," he said.

Chef Lachman said he immediately fell in love with the location.

"I loved the feel of it. When you walk in it has a nice energy, even before we did anything and I'm really happy with what we put together here. I'm very pleased," he said.

Action News reporter Alicia Vitarelli sampled the chicken tagine.

"The chicken (is) roasted then we finish it off on the couscous, the chickpeas, the kind of seasonal vegetables," he told her.

She also tried the grilled swordfish.

"We start the sauce with roasted garlic, tomato and raisins, finish off with a vegetable stock, pistachio and parsley and that goes across the top of this dish," he said.

The final course is a Paris-Brest. The traditional dessert is done with a praline cream and candied cherries to bring a North African flare to the flavor.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Isgros

1009 Christian St.

Philadelphia, Pa. 19147

(215) 923-3092

Facebook Page

Coeur

824 S. 8th Street

(215) 922-6387

Restaurant Neuf

943 S. 9th Street

Philadelphia, Pa. 19147

(215) 309-5847

Facebook Page