Restaurant Details

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.”