Neighborhood Love Letter
By Joe Morrison
Dear friends,
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share a place that’s been near and dear to my heart for over 25 years: the neighborhoods of Fitler Square and Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia. They aren’t just places on a map—they’re a way of life, a collection of moments, and a vibrant community that always feels like home.
I remember when my family first moved here from New York City. My wife and I had just welcomed our first child, and we were struck by how much easier life felt. Everything—groceries, buses, even daycare—was more accessible. We could walk everywhere, which wasn’t just convenient; it was a chance to really connect with our community.
One of my fondest memories is when my father came to help us fix up our first home. Pine Street Hardware became our second home that week. The staff there didn’t just sell tools—they shared their knowledge and treated us like family. By the end of the week, my dad was on a first-name basis with everyone and may have even made it onto their holiday card list.
One of my favorite things about living here is how easy it is to connect with people. Take Pub & Kitchen, for instance—a local spot that’s become my go-to for upscale comfort food and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s not just about the menu, though their dishes are always a delight. It’s the kind of place where you run into friends unexpectedly, turning an ordinary meal into something special.
And then there’s Friday Saturday Sunday, a Rittenhouse institution that’s been redefining dining for decades. Their dry-aged duck breast and handmade pastas are worth writing home about. The warmth of the staff and the inviting elegance of the space make every visit feel like a celebration, whether it’s dinner with loved ones or a quiet evening at the bar.
But these neighborhoods aren’t just about great food—they’re about the people and places that bring us together. I often find myself at Schuylkill River Park, a serene escape where you’ll find families, dogs, and friends enjoying the trails or relaxing by the river. It’s a beautiful reminder of how city living and nature can harmonize.
Weekends here are a sensory delight. The energy around Rittenhouse Square is palpable, with art fairs, street parties, and even the occasional parade. I’ll never forget the parades for the Phillies and Eagles after their championship wins. Those moments weren’t just about sports; they were about community pride and celebration.
If you ever visit, I’d recommend starting with a stroll through Rittenhouse Square. Sit by the fountain, watch the world go by, and take in the gardens and historic architecture. Then, wander over to Fitler Square for a quieter vibe. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the Schuylkill River Trail and walk up to the Art Museum—it’s a perfect way to experience the area’s charm and beauty.
What I love most about these neighborhoods is their pace. They offer the best of both worlds—a vibrant city atmosphere tempered by a sense of calm. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at La Colombe or picking up pastries from The Bakeshop on Twentieth, life here feels just right.
There’s so much more I could say, but I think it’s best experienced in person. Spending an afternoon people-watching, surrounded by stunning brownstones and lively cafes, is like stepping into a postcard. I’ve even picked out my dream mansion—just in case!
If you ever find yourself in Philadelphia, let me know. I’d love to show you around and share more of what makes this place so special.
Warm regards,
Joe Morrison
Welcome to Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is one of the five original open-space parks planned by William Penn and his surveyor Thomas Holme during the late 17th century. The park cuts off 19th Street at Walnut Street and at a half block above Manning Street.
Its boundaries are 18th Street to the East, Walnut St. to the north, Rittenhouse Square West (a north-south boundary street), and Rittenhouse Square South (an east-west boundary street), making the park approximately two short blocks on each side.
Today, the tree-filled park is surrounded by high rise residences, luxury apartments, an office tower, a few popular restaurants, high-end retail, and hotels, including a five-star. Its green grasses and dozens of benches are popular lunch-time destinations for residents and workers in Philadelphia’s Center City neighborhood while its lion and goat statues are popular gathering spots for small children and their parents. Once predominantly a daytime destination, Rittenhouse Square is now a popular nightspot as well, with a string of restaurants — including Rouge, Devon, Parc and Barclay Prime — that have sprouted up along the east side of the park on 18th Street.
Rittenhouse Square has always denoted luxurious living. The first house facing the Square was erected in 1840. During its next century the Square kept its residential quality. In 1913, the architect Paul Cret, who was one of the men responsible for Benjamin Franklin Parkway and many of its buildings, designed the Square’s entrances, central plaza with the stone railings, pool and fountain. To have lived near or on the Square was a mark of prestige. Today, private homes are gone, but Rittenhouse Square is still arguably one of Philadelphia’s most prestigious addresses. There are several houses still standing, but most have been converted into apartments, co-ops and condos.
