Vietnamese Presence in South Philadelphia

The Wing Phat Plaza located on 11th Street and Washington Avenue is home to an array of Vietnamese-owned shops. The shopping center contains several restaurants, a large supermarket and other specialty stores. This plaza sits next to the Italian market and a long string of Mexican shops located on Washington Avenue.

A strong aroma of herbs and foods strike the nose upon entrance of the Hung Vuong Supermarket. Checkout aisles are stocked with Vietnamese candy, and a pharmacy-like counter with an attendant contains jars of herbs.

On the other side of the plaza sits Pho Cafe. The atmosphere in the restaurant is inviting and relaxed. There are over 200 items on their menu, allowing patrons to put their own twists on dishes.

Unfortunately, the workers at both Hung Vuong and Pho Cafe were unable to comment about the establishments and the Plaza. They were also unable to give us the contact information of someone who could answer our questions about the Vietnamese presence in the neighborhood.

Stephanie Wharton and Danielle Zimmerman, Group 34, South Philadelphia