Fishtown, Philadelphia, a vibrant neighborhood known for its art scene, breweries, and diverse culinary offerings, also boasts a surprisingly impressive collection of french fry purveyors. Forget limp, sad fries – this guide dives deep into the crispy, golden, and utterly delicious world of Fishtown fries, ranking fifteen of the best. We’ve considered everything from classic seasoned fries to gourmet creations, ensuring there’s a perfect fry for every palate. This is more than just a list; it's a journey through the fried potato landscape of Fishtown.
The Fry-Off: Ranking Fishtown's Finest
This ranking considers factors beyond just taste: texture, seasoning, overall quality of the ingredients, and the fry's place within the overall dining experience. We've sampled extensively, and the results are in! Prepare for a mouthwatering exploration.
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Frankford Hall: These aren't your average bar fries. Frankford Hall's fries are thick-cut, perfectly crispy, and boast a truly addictive seasoning blend. Their beer selection pairs perfectly, making it a top contender.
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Pizzeria Stella: While known for its excellent pizza, Pizzeria Stella's fries are a hidden gem. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these are a simple yet supremely satisfying side dish.
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Johnny Brenda's: A Fishtown institution, Johnny Brenda's serves up consistently good fries, often enhanced with creative toppings or dipping sauces. Their live music atmosphere adds to the overall enjoyment.
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Martha: This trendy spot offers elevated fries, frequently featuring unique seasoning combinations and gourmet additions. Expect a higher price point, but the quality justifies it.
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Kensington Quarters: This butcher shop and restaurant offers hearty, thick-cut fries that are perfect for sharing (or not!). Their rustic charm adds to the experience.
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Fette Sau: This barbecue joint's fries are a perfect complement to their smoked meats. Crispy, seasoned, and generously portioned, they're a must-have side.
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Suraya: This Middle Eastern restaurant serves up fries with a twist, often incorporating unique spices and flavors. They're a delicious departure from the traditional.
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Talula's Garden: This farm-to-table restaurant uses high-quality potatoes, resulting in fries with exceptional flavor and texture. Their commitment to fresh ingredients shines through.
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Cafe Lift: This cozy cafe offers simple yet satisfying fries, a perfect accompaniment to their coffee and pastries. They're a comforting classic.
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Loco Pez: This taqueria provides fantastic fries that perfectly complement their Mexican cuisine. Often served with flavorful toppings or dipping sauces.
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La Colombe Coffee Roasters: While primarily a coffee shop, La Colombe's fries offer a surprising level of quality, crispy and seasoned to perfection.
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Standard Tap: This gastropub offers solid, reliable fries, a perfect match for their extensive beer selection.
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Prime Stache: This burger joint features fries that are a solid accompaniment to their juicy burgers. Simple, but effective.
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South Philly Barbacoa: Their fries, while not the primary focus, are a welcome addition to their flavorful barbacoa tacos and other dishes.
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Wm. Mulherin's Sons: This restaurant's fries are a decent option, though they may not quite reach the heights of some of the other contenders on this list.
Beyond the Bite: Factors to Consider
Choosing the best fries is subjective, but these factors can guide your decision:
| Factor | Description |
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| Cut | Thin, thick, steak, shoestring – each cut offers a different texture and crispiness. |
| Seasoning | Salt, pepper, herbs, spices – the seasoning can make or break a fry. |
| Preparation | Freshly cut, double-fried, etc. – preparation methods affect texture and taste. |
| Overall Experience | The fries within the context of the restaurant's atmosphere and other offerings. |
Finding Your Perfect Fishtown Fry
This list is a starting point – your personal preferences might lead you to discover your own hidden fry gem in Fishtown. Don't be afraid to explore! Happy frying!
(Note: Restaurant menus and offerings can change, so it's always a good idea to check with the establishment before your visit.)
