Eating Your Way Through History on Philly’s ‘Las Huellas’ Trail

Philadelphia’s newest interactive public history project is officially live. Running through November 19, 2026, the Las Huellas (“the footprints”) audio trail features 11 installations scattered across the city, honoring the legacies of the region’s most impactful Hispanic and Latino figures.

While the trail rightfully highlights brilliant scientists, judges, and community organizers, it also serves as an incredible roadmap to some of the best food in the city. The Hispanic and Latino communities have fundamentally shaped Philadelphia’s modern dining landscape, transforming it into a world-class culinary destination.

If you want to read the full breakdown of all 11 civic and cultural stops, you can discover the Las Huellas audio trail celebrating Hispanic & Latino changemakers in Philly here. But if you want to explore the trail with your appetite leading the way, here is how to eat your way through this historic installation.

Stop 1: Amada (Old City)

The Changemaker: Chef José Garces

Location: 217-219 Chestnut Street

When Chef José Garces opened Amada in 2005, it sparked a tapas revolution in Philadelphia. As an Iron Chef and James Beard Award winner, Garces introduced a new generation of diners to authentic Andalusian tapas and elevated Latin flavors. To honor his massive impact on the local restaurant industry, a Las Huellas footprint installation now sits outside the very restaurant that started his culinary empire. How to experience it: Scan the QR code outside to listen to his story, then head inside for a plate of jamón ibérico, garlic shrimp, and a pitcher of traditional sangria.

Stop 2: El Merkury (Center City)

The Changemaker: Sofia Deleon

Location: Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch Street

For decades, Philadelphia’s mainstream street food scene was largely dominated by local staples like pretzels and cheesesteaks. Sofia Deleon changed the conversation by founding El Merkury, a vibrant concept dedicated entirely to Central American street food. Her work successfully introduced thousands of Philadelphians to the rich, complex flavors of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. How to experience it: Find her footprint installation at the iconic Reading Terminal Market. After learning about her entrepreneurial journey, you are perfectly positioned to grab a fresh order of churros or a loaded pupusa.

Stop 3: South Philly Barbacoa (South Philadelphia)

The Changemaker: Chef Cristina Martinez

Location: 1134 S. 9th Street

You cannot talk about the intersection of food and community advocacy in Philadelphia without mentioning Cristina Martinez. Starting as a humble food cart, South Philly Barbacoa evolved into a globally recognized institution, drawing lines around the block for her traditional, slow-cooked Mexican barbacoa. Beyond her culinary mastery, Martinez has used her platform to fiercely advocate for undocumented restaurant workers across the country. How to experience it: Head down to the 9th Street corridor to find her footprint. Get there early on a weekend to listen to the audio trail before grabbing a bowl of pancita and her legendary lamb tacos.

Stop 4: Dilworth Park (Center City)

The Changemaker: Enerolina Melendez

Location: Near 15th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard

While this stop is not a restaurant, it honors the literal backbone of Philadelphia’s food access: the neighborhood bodega. Enerolina Melendez has spent over two decades advocating for small-business owners and has led the Dominican Grocers Association since 2023. Her work represents thousands of corner store owners who keep local communities fed, supplied, and connected. How to experience it: As you walk through Dilworth Park in the shadow of City Hall, scan the installation to learn how these essential small grocery businesses shape the cultural and economic fabric of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods.