2 Best Restaurants in East Passyunk, Queen Village, Bella Vista, and South Philadelphia, Philadelphia

Babka, bagels, rugelach, and challah are but a few of the specialties at Tova du Plessis’s “little Jewish bakery,” where everything’s handmade in small batches. In addition to these tasty artisanal items, Essen doles out traditional neighborhood bakery options like cookies, croissants, coffee, and simple sandwiches.

Churning out Italian pastries since 1921, this famed bakery is best known for its filled-to-order cannoli, but its counters are also packed with pizzelles (Italian waffle cookies), biscotti, cakes, and other traditional Italian sweet treats. It's the perfect spot to stop for some traditional edible souvenirs to bring home—think cookie trays and gift boxes—or ship to your favorite cousin in California.