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Get To Know Fishtown

Posted on October 13, 2022   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Brittany Valentine

Brittany Valentine

A Fishtown goth heart by Philly artist Amberella. (Brittany Valentine/City Cast Philly)

A Fishtown goth heart by Philly artist Amberella. (Brittany Valentine/City Cast Philly)

Maybe you’ve been to Fishtown a few times, but how much do you know about it?

The neighborhood got its name from its history as an epicenter of commercial shad-fishing. In the 1700s, the town adopted this name from early settlers who were mostly German and English fishermen.

The abundance of shad fish living in the Delaware River motivated these European settlers to take over the land and grow roots.

Fast-forward to the present, Fishtown is a popular place to live, filled with bars, restaurants, coffee roasters, concert venues, vintage furniture boutiques, art studios, and galleries. In 2018, Forbes Magazine honored Fishtown with the title of “America’s hottest new neighborhood.” 

Next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out two of my favorite spots.  

Philadelphia Record Exchange has selections for every music fan, including classic rock, hard rock, jazz, soundtracks, and more. You can also sell your old vinyls. 

The Random Tea Room & Curiosity Shop is a lovely space to soothe the palate and the spirit. It has a line of artisan teas and house-blended herbal infusions that allow the customer to relax into the international world of tea. The vibes are exquisite. 

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