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A corner table in the President's Room at Palizzi Social Club, 1408 S. 12th St., on Feb. 19, 2025.
A corner table in the President's Room at Palizzi Social Club, 1408 S. 12th St., on Feb. 19, 2025.Read moreMichael Klein / Staff

Palizzi Social Club

South PhiladelphiaItalian$$

Every once in a while, this kitschy, century-old speakeasy in South Philly opens its rolls up to new members, but not many and not often. Your best bet is to buddy up to somebody who’s already got a gold seal to flash at the peephole, and play it cool. The main dining room seats about 45 people, while the upstairs cocktail lounge can squeeze in maybe 20, plus five at the bar. Reviewing is against house rules, but Inquirer food critic Craig LaBan notes the “soulful resonance” to the food at Palizzi. “It goes well beyond the familiar clichés of South Philly's remaining red-gravy restaurants, with a knowing touch for recipes handed down by chef Joey Baldino’s mother and grandmother.”

How we choose our best lists

The Inquirer aims to represent the geographic, cultural, and culinary diversity of the region in its coverage. Inquirer staffers and contributors do not accept free or comped meals — all meals are paid for by the Inquirer. All dining recommendations are made solely by the Inquirer editorial staffers and contributors based on their reporting and expertise, without input from advertisers or outside interests.

Restaurant Details

1408 S 12th St., Philadelphia, PA, 19147
https://palizzisocial.com/
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