Palizzi Social Club opens membership applications for new members.

Palizzi Social Club, a renowned establishment located in South Philadelphia, known for its signature potent gimlets and tender braciola served in a vintage, speakeasy-style ambiance, is set to reopen its membership rolls after a two-year hiatus. This notable development marks a significant moment for both the club and its potential members, as only one hundred memberships will be made available in the coming weeks.

General manager Jorgen Eriksen expressed that the decision to reopen membership was rooted in a desire to respond to the consistent inquiries received from prospective members. The club, adhering to Pennsylvania laws that restrict admission to members and their guests, maintains a selective approach to its membership in order to mitigate overcrowding. The exact number of current members remains undisclosed.

Founded in 1918 by immigrants from Vasto, Italy, Palizzi Social Club was established to serve as a communal haven for those navigating their new lives in a foreign country. The club was named in honor of Filippo Palizzi, a 19th-century painter and local figure. Culinary entrepreneur Joey Baldino rejuvenated the venue in 2017, preserving its legacy while enhancing its offerings.

The forthcoming membership drive will feature sales of annual memberships, commencing on May 8 at 3 p.m. at the club’s front door, located at 1408 S. 12th St. The sales will occur over four consecutive Thursdays, with twenty-five memberships available each week. The initial ten new members will receive a complimentary gold seal, which grants access to the exclusive second-floor President’s Room—a newly opened cocktail lounge that accommodates approximately 25 guests and showcases live music.

Each member is permitted to bring up to three guests into either of the club’s two spaces. While the gold seals typically retail for , their complimentary offering signifies an effort to enhance the new member experience. The President’s Room features a bar seating five, while the main room can host roughly 45 patrons.

Should potential members miss the initial sales, they will have the opportunity to submit an application for future consideration. These applications will be reviewed by the club’s assembly, which will send notifications of acceptance. The next opportunity for membership is anticipated to take place in May 2027.

Baldino, who grew up in close proximity to the historic venue, upholds the club’s nostalgic atmosphere, replete with classic decor reminiscent of a bygone era. It has been a cherished venue maintained by his family since 1952, continuing to serve as a gathering place where tradition thrives amidst contemporary culinary innovations.