NIPOTINA
SOUTH PHILLY'S SENSATIONAL NEWCOMER
There’s something magical happening on Passyunk Avenue, and it answers to the name Nipotina - a cozy, sparkling café where cheesesteaks meet charm, and every sandwich tells a story.
The brains (and heart) behind Nipotina is Marlo Dilks, a former Urban Outfitters accountant turned culinary entrepreneur. Nipotina is Marlo's third restaurant, and maybe her most personal.
Although she now lives on the Main Line with husband and co-owner Jason, Marlo grew up just blocks from Nipotina’s front door. Her South Philly roots run deep - her father, Louis Fioravanti, ran multiple restaurants and a grocery shop, and she spent her teen years elbow-deep in the family business. Today, vintage signs from her dad's establishments decorate Nipotina’s walls like cherished heirlooms.
What’s in a name? Plenty. “Nipotina” means “granddaughter” in Italian - a fitting tribute from Marlo, who grew up making delicious meals with her Italian grandmothers, and who happens to be the proud mother of 7 daughters (yes, seven), all of them the granddaughters of Louis. If that doesn’t make your heart smile, wait until you see the sandwich list.
Nipotina features a lineup of mouth-watering, creatively named sandwiches, each one begging to be devoured - Everyday I’m Truffling, The Hangover Cure, Hippie Chic, The Buff, The Cugino. It’s like a delicious mixtape you want to play on repeat.
However, since Willie is on a cheesesteak quest, the natural choice is The Eye - a masterpiece featuring succulent ribeye, melty Cooper Sharp, and grilled onions, all tucked into a scooped Liscio’s roll with just the right crisp. Without a doubt one of the best cheesesteaks in the city.
The surrounding neighborhood is not glamorous, but step inside and you’ll find a bright, clean space with tasteful modern décor and a warm welcome from folks like Daniel behind the counter. The vibe is friendly, laid-back, and totally inviting - a tribute not just to Marlo’s taste, but to her deep South Philly soul.
Word has it that Marlo is already eyeing a second Nipotina - this time on the Main Line. While we are certain it will be a hit, there is still something about South Philly air that just makes a cheesesteak taste better.
Nipotina is much more than just superbly crafted sandwiches - it is a love letter to family, flavor, and Philly itself. Once you go, you will want to come back. Again and again.
NIPOTINA
2238 South 21st Street (off Passyunk)
(484) 355-5410
