Food

In Philadelphia’s East Kensington, restaurants aren’t just places to grab a meal—they’re the heart of the community, bridging the gap between old and new residents and holding onto the threads of a neighborhood identity that’s

“Caring for Friends” was founded in 1974. Its founder believed that no one should be hungry or alone in a world of caring people. The organization’s mission is simple: to provide food and friendship in the 5-county Philadelphia region. It delivers meals to community members who are unable to cook for themselves.

In a neighborhood defined by rapid change, rising developments, and a shifting
demographic, Lee’s Dumplings and Stuff is more than just a restaurant. It’s a symbol of how
small businesses can help create a sense of community amid gentrification. As young
professionals move into East Kensington, owner Gally Lee has tapped into the growing need for
reasonably priced, healthy meals that cater to both long-time locals and newer arrivals. The
restaurant offers common ground for different generations and economic classes to meet and
connect.

Kyra Novak is a manager and bartender at Founding Father’s. She has worked at Founding Father’s for the past three years. Her family is from Port Richmond in the Northeast. Besides her job at Founding Father’s she is also going to school at Montgomery County Community College to become a Physical Therapist assistant.

Sahbyy Food’s menu features, in the words of the creators, a ‘modern’ take on Cambodian street food. Neither of the two creators had worked in the culinary industry, but they shared a strong, familiar bond with food.

The People’s Kitchen, a free restaurant model, in Southwest Philadelphia was established in 2020 to address this growing need to fight food insecurity by offering free meals from their restaurant front.   

The Caribbean Community in Philadelphia shared their culture through music and food on June 25.

Vendors from Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey sell their produce at the Headhouse Farmers Market.