Why Not Philly?

As Chef Marcus Samuelsson explores incredible immigrant food traditions in US cities, we have to ask – why not Philly?

If you agree that Marcus should come to Philly next season, sign our petition!



An Open Letter to Marcus Samuelsson

Dear Marcus,

I love everything about your new show No Passport Required, but I’m afraid you left something out: Philadelphia.

I know it’s a big country, but when it comes to a diverse and vibrant food scene, this city is not to be missed.

During the past decade, Philly’s population has boomed thanks to people moving here from all around the world. Today, nearly one in five workers in Philly is an immigrant — many of them cooking in restaurants. This city is a global feast serving up dishes from Africa, Cambodia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Mexico, Malaysia and the Philippines to name just a few of the nationalities at the table here.

When No Passport Required season two is greenlit, put Philly at the top of your list. I insist.

You’ll find it’s not just the tacos, the tamales and the tea-leaf salads worthy of your attention but the people—the cooks and communities that give this city its unforgettable flavor. Forget cheesesteaks. Come get a taste of the real Philadelphia—and share it with the rest of the world.

Sincerely,
Joy Manning,
Editor of Edible Philly on behalf of WHYY and the people of the Philadelphia region

P.S. Check out WHYY’s mini-series, Philly Eats the World, to get a glimpse of what Philly has to offer.

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