World Food Tour: South Philly Barbaccoa (Mexican)

Get ready for a culinary journey to the heart of Mexico, right here in the Italian Market! Our next stop on the World Food Tour is the legendary South Philly Barbacoa. Led by the incredible James Beard Award-winning Chef Cristina Martinez, this isn't just a meal—it’s a masterclass in tradition. If you’ve seen her on Netflix’s Chef’s Table, you know we are in for something truly special.

Why You Should Join Us:
South Philly Barbacoa is world-renowned for a reason. Chef Cristina uses a generations-old secret family recipe to create lamb barbacoa that is slow-cooked for hours until it's melt-in-your-mouth tender. From the vibrant, hand-pressed corn tortillas to the rich lamb consommé, every bite tells a story of resilience and passion. The atmosphere is colorful, bustling, and filled with the spirit of the community. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy authentic flavors while connecting with friends who appreciate the artistry behind great food.

What's the Plan?
We’ll be gathering at their iconic South 9th Street location to dive into their specialized menu. We'll focus on the classics: the famous lamb barbacoa, the spicy pancita (for the adventurous!), and their incredible toppings. Since the food is served family-style by the kilo or by the taco, it’s a fantastic way for us to share and sample everything. You can check out more about Chef Cristina’s story and the restaurant here: https://chefcristinamartinez.com/restaurantes-y-experiencias/south-philly-barbacoa/

The Deets:

• BYOB: Feel free to bring your favorite beer or a crisp white wine to balance the rich, savory flavors of the barbacoa!
• Cost: We will likely order by the kilo to share as a group, along with sides like consommé and tamales. Please anticipate the total cost to be approximately $30-$40 per person (including tax and tip). Please bring cash.
• Allergies: This menu is very focused on lamb and corn. If you have specific dietary restrictions, please let me know when you RSVP.
• Important: I will send a confirmation message a day or two before our visit to finalize the headcount. Because this is a popular spot with limited seating, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" promptly if your plans change so someone from the waitlist can join.
• Parking: Located at 1134 S. 9th Street. Street parking in the Italian Market can be a challenge on weekends, so give yourself extra time or consider a ride-share.

Can’t wait to share these incredible flavors with all of you!