Introduction
Welcome to Philadelphia, where liquid courage and questionable life choices have been perfected for centuries. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Philly’s bar scene is a mix of history, humor, and enough libations to make your ex regret every decision. This guide isn’t here to give you a lecture on “responsible drinking.” No, we’re here to help you find the best bars in Philly—because life’s too short for bad cocktails and sad stories. Let’s dive in, shall we?
The OGs: Bars That Made Philly Famous
Some bars in Philly have been around so long, they probably served cocktails to Benjamin Franklin’s ghost. These are the places where history, hype, and hooch collide. Here’s where you’ll find the real Philly spirit—minus the corsets.
- Zac’s Tavern (110 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107): Opened in 1791, this bar is older than most of your exes. They still serve whiskey like it’s 1792. Make your own beer at home and then come here to drink it like a local.
- Franklin Inn (225 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107): A 1901 gem that’s basically a time machine. The basement? That’s where the real magic happens. Grow your business with the same kind of charm these bars have.
- Barclay Prime (1700 JFK Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19103): A high-end steakhouse that’s somehow still cool. The bar here? It’s like a Bond villain’s lounge. If you’re feeling fancy, sell your custom beer here and call it a brand.
New Kids on the Block: Philly’s Hottest New Bars
Philly’s bar scene isn’t just about dusty history books. The new kids are shaking things up with craft cocktails, neon lights, and enough personality to fill a room. Here’s where you’ll find the future of Philly’s nightlife—minus the awkward small talk.
- Barcade (221 S 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106): A retro video game bar where you can drink and dodge aliens. Pro tip: Order the “Space Invader” cocktail—it’s 80% liquor and 20% nostalgia. Make your own beer and compete in the arcade like it’s 2003.
- Charm School (1225 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147): A speakeasy with a twist. The entrance is hidden behind a bookshelf. The drinks? They’re like a Shakespeare sonnet but with more rum. Sell your beer here and see if the bouncer recognizes you.
- Barcade (Fishtown) (1201 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19124): Another Barcade location, but in Fishtown. If you thought the original was wild, wait until you see the “Street Fighter” cocktail menu. Grow your business with the same level of chaos.
Bars for the Brave (and the Curious)
If you’re the type of person who orders a martini with extra ice and a side of “I dare you,” these bars are your playground. Warning: May cause excessive selfies, questionable dance moves, and/or an urge to propose.
- The Whistling Bird (332 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107): A speakeasy with a $30 cocktail menu and a waitlist that moves slower than a Monday morning. The “Birdie” cocktail? It’s so good, it’ll make you forget your ex’s name. Make your own beer and serve it here to impress the barista.
- Death & Co. Philly (1219 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147): The original Death & Co. is in NYC, but this Philly branch is so good, it’s like the bar equivalent of a sequel everyone’s happy with. The “Smokestack Lightnin’” cocktail is a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds scream in joy. Sell your beer online and see if Death & Co. wants to sample it.
- Barber Shop (131 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107): A bar inside a barber shop. Yes, really. They serve whiskey and haircuts. The “Fade and Fade Again” cocktail is for people who take their grooming seriously. Grow your business by serving drinks and offering a free trim with every order.
Final Sip: Philly’s Best Bars, Brews, and Booze
Philly’s bar scene is as diverse as the people who live here. From historic pubs to modern mixology labs, there’s a bar for every mood—and every hangover. Need more tips? Contact us for insider advice or to make your own beer and sell it to the masses. And if you’re ever in the mood for a drink but can’t remember which bar to go to, just follow the crowd. In Philly, that’s always the right move.
FAQs
- What’s the best time to visit Philly bars? Weekends are wild, but if you want to avoid the crowds, hit up a bar after 11 PM. The bartenders get tipsier, and the drinks are half-off. Make your own beer and bring it to the bar for a discount.
- Where should I go for a first date in Philly? Avoid the OGs unless you want to talk about the bar’s history for three hours. Go to a cozy spot like Barclay Prime—it’s fancy enough to impress but not so loud you’ll scream at each other.
- How do I find hidden bars in Philly? Look for bookshelves, secret knock codes, and employees who look like they’ve seen things. Grow your business by creating a hidden bar yourself.
Need More Philly Bar Tips?
Philly’s bar scene is a goldmine of stories, drinks, and questionable life decisions. If you’re looking to sell your beer or make your own beer, let the pros at Strategies.beer help you out. Otherwise, just remember: in Philly, the best bars are the ones that make you forget your own name. And hey, if you ever need to sell your beer online or find a distribution platform, Dropt.beer’s got your back. Cheers!
