Best of 12 gastropubs in Philadelphia
Gastropubs in Philadelphia are revolutionizing the city's culinary scene. These establishments, which combine the cozy and inviting atmosphere of a pub with the delectable and innovative offerings of a restaurant, are redefining the way Philadelphians dine. With a focus on locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients, gastropubs in Philadelphia are providing unique and delicious dining experiences that are not to be missed. From classic comfort foods with a twist, to inventive small plates and refreshing cocktails, gastropubs in Philadelphia are a must-visit for foodies and casual diners alike.
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1. The Dandelion
Seasonal French menu, extensive wine list
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The Dandelion in Philadelphia offers a unique dining experience, bringing the culinary revolution of London to the city. This gastro-pub features cozy rooms and intimate bars, creating a warm and inviting Old World atmosphere. The menu showcases updated seasonal takes on British food, blending traditional flavors with contemporary culinary techniques.
The Dandelion is an excellent choice for a special occasion or a memorable meal. The menu features a range of dishes, from hearty pub fare to elegant entrees. The cozy and intimate atmosphere, with its charming decor and welcoming staff, adds to the overall dining experience. Whether you're looking to enjoy a drink at the bar or sit down for a full meal, the Dandelion offers an unforgettable experience that combines exceptional food and drink with a memorable atmosphere.
The Dandelion in Philadelphia offers a unique dining experience, bringing the culinary revolution of London to the city. This gastro-pub features cozy rooms and intimate bars, creating a warm and inviting Old World atmosphere. The menu showcases updated seasonal takes on British food, blending traditional flavors with contemporary culinary techniques.
The Dandelion is an excellent choice for a special occasion or a memorable meal. The menu features a range of dishes, from hearty pub fare to elegant entrees. The cozy and intimate atmosphere, with its charming decor and welcoming staff, adds to the overall dining experience. Whether you're looking to enjoy a drink at the bar or sit down for a full meal, the Dandelion offers an unforgettable experience that combines exceptional food and drink with a memorable atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Celebrations
2. City Tap House Logan Square
Large projector screens for sports games
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City Tap House is a gastropub that provides a wide range of craft beers and a menu that does not fail to satisfy. The service may be inconsistent, but it is generally a great place to dine and drink. The establishment boasts a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual night out with friends or family.
The gastropub's beer selection is impressive, with a variety of craft beers that cater to different tastes and preferences. The food is equally delightful, offering dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Although the service can be hit or miss, the quality of the food and drink, as well as the atmosphere, make up for any shortcomings in service. Ultimately, City Tap House is a solid choice for anyone looking for a great gastropub experience.
City Tap House is a gastropub that provides a wide range of craft beers and a menu that does not fail to satisfy. The service may be inconsistent, but it is generally a great place to dine and drink. The establishment boasts a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual night out with friends or family.
The gastropub's beer selection is impressive, with a variety of craft beers that cater to different tastes and preferences. The food is equally delightful, offering dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Although the service can be hit or miss, the quality of the food and drink, as well as the atmosphere, make up for any shortcomings in service. Ultimately, City Tap House is a solid choice for anyone looking for a great gastropub experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Mid-Range
3. Khyber Pass Pub
Offers a unique fusion of Afghan and Indian cuisine
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The selection of food at this establishment is limited but goes beyond typical pub fare, offering elevated options with unique flavor combinations. The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, in particular, was praised for its juicy chicken and well-balanced seasoning. The Khyber Burger, which features melted smoked cheddar, barbeque onions, and spicy creole mustard, was also noted for its delicious taste. In addition to the carnivorous options, there is also a variety of vegan options, such as the Grilled Vegan Sausage sandwich. The ambiance of the restaurant is laid-back and unpretentious, with a rustic, dim-lit atmosphere. The service is friendly and attentive, with the staff regularly checking in on the status of the meal and ensuring satisfaction.
However, there were some issues with the cleanliness of the bathrooms. Both are single-use rooms located next to the bar. During the visit, one of the bathrooms was out of order and the other was not particularly clean. The establishment loses a star in this review due to the poor state of the restrooms. Additionally, the reviewer enjoyed a Dogfish Midas Touch beer at a discounted price during the 5-7 happy hour deal, indicating a happy hour promotion is offered at this location.
The selection of food at this establishment is limited but goes beyond typical pub fare, offering elevated options with unique flavor combinations. The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, in particular, was praised for its juicy chicken and well-balanced seasoning. The Khyber Burger, which features melted smoked cheddar, barbeque onions, and spicy creole mustard, was also noted for its delicious taste. In addition to the carnivorous options, there is also a variety of vegan options, such as the Grilled Vegan Sausage sandwich. The ambiance of the restaurant is laid-back and unpretentious, with a rustic, dim-lit atmosphere. The service is friendly and attentive, with the staff regularly checking in on the status of the meal and ensuring satisfaction.
However, there were some issues with the cleanliness of the bathrooms. Both are single-use rooms located next to the bar. During the visit, one of the bathrooms was out of order and the other was not particularly clean. The establishment loses a star in this review due to the poor state of the restrooms. Additionally, the reviewer enjoyed a Dogfish Midas Touch beer at a discounted price during the 5-7 happy hour deal, indicating a happy hour promotion is offered at this location.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
4. The Plough & the Stars
Historic building with connections to the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin
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The Plough & the Stars is an Irish restaurant that offers a delicious and varied menu in a busy but well-managed atmosphere. The staff are pleasant, attentive, and able to accommodate large groups. The restaurant is known for its excellent food, which is described as moist, delicious, and expertly cooked with great presentation.
Standout dishes include the Irish Soda Bread and the lamb lollies. Reviewers praise the quality of the ingredients, and the care with which the food is prepared and presented. Overall, the Plough & the Stars is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious Irish food and a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Plough & the Stars is an Irish restaurant that offers a delicious and varied menu in a busy but well-managed atmosphere. The staff are pleasant, attentive, and able to accommodate large groups. The restaurant is known for its excellent food, which is described as moist, delicious, and expertly cooked with great presentation.
Standout dishes include the Irish Soda Bread and the lamb lollies. Reviewers praise the quality of the ingredients, and the care with which the food is prepared and presented. Overall, the Plough & the Stars is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious Irish food and a warm and inviting atmosphere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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5. Standard Tap
Featuring local craft beers on tap
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Standard Tap is a bar and restaurant with a cool, industrial vibe, featuring a rooftop and multiple levels. The cocktails are a standout, and the food, such as the roast pork sandwich, is tasty although can be messy. The atmosphere is described as lively and "bro-y," making it a great spot for those seeking good food and a fun environment.
The ambiance at Standard Tap is relaxed and artsy, with a pub-style atmosphere that is friendly and welcoming. It's an ideal place to enjoy good food, beer, and company with friends. While the cocktails are a highlight, the main draw is the overall experience of great food and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Standard Tap is a bar and restaurant with a cool, industrial vibe, featuring a rooftop and multiple levels. The cocktails are a standout, and the food, such as the roast pork sandwich, is tasty although can be messy. The atmosphere is described as lively and "bro-y," making it a great spot for those seeking good food and a fun environment.
The ambiance at Standard Tap is relaxed and artsy, with a pub-style atmosphere that is friendly and welcoming. It's an ideal place to enjoy good food, beer, and company with friends. While the cocktails are a highlight, the main draw is the overall experience of great food and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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6. The Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant
Wide selection of craft beers and unique cocktails
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The first establishment is widely regarded as one of the best gastropubs in Philadelphia. It offers a delicious Cuban sandwich and an impressive brunch menu. Although it is a bit expensive, the excellent quality of the food and ambiance makes it worth the cost.
The second gastropub is another great option, known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The shepherd's pie and mac and cheese are standout dishes, and the beer selection is sure to impress. While both gastropubs offer high-quality food and drink, they each have their unique strengths.
The first establishment is widely regarded as one of the best gastropubs in Philadelphia. It offers a delicious Cuban sandwich and an impressive brunch menu. Although it is a bit expensive, the excellent quality of the food and ambiance makes it worth the cost.
The second gastropub is another great option, known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The shepherd's pie and mac and cheese are standout dishes, and the beer selection is sure to impress. While both gastropubs offer high-quality food and drink, they each have their unique strengths.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
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7. Prohibition Taproom
Dog-friendly environment, knowledgeable staff
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Prohibition Taproom is a bar with a strong personality and unique atmosphere. The large "BAR" sign, visible even from Spring Garden, beckons to passersby. Inside, the space is dominated by a large wooden bar, illuminated by elegant Victorian light bulbs. Despite the vintage ambiance, the taproom is able to accommodate a sizeable crowd, including in the bathrooms.
The taproom is located in a historic building that has been home to a bar since the 1800s, and it continues this tradition by offering craft beer and gourmet American fare. Prohibition Taproom's name is a nod to the building's history and its vintage ambiance. The bar prides itself on providing high-quality drinks and food in a setting that harkens back to a bygone era. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a great place to grab a drink, Prohibition Taproom is definitely worth a visit.
Prohibition Taproom is a bar with a strong personality and unique atmosphere. The large "BAR" sign, visible even from Spring Garden, beckons to passersby. Inside, the space is dominated by a large wooden bar, illuminated by elegant Victorian light bulbs. Despite the vintage ambiance, the taproom is able to accommodate a sizeable crowd, including in the bathrooms.
The taproom is located in a historic building that has been home to a bar since the 1800s, and it continues this tradition by offering craft beer and gourmet American fare. Prohibition Taproom's name is a nod to the building's history and its vintage ambiance. The bar prides itself on providing high-quality drinks and food in a setting that harkens back to a bygone era. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a great place to grab a drink, Prohibition Taproom is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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8. Varga Bar
Authentic Hungarian cuisine in a vibrant setting, centrally located.
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Varga Bar, once a remarkable establishment, still boasts a top-notch beer selection and decent food, though some cherished options like crab cheese fries are now absent. As a gastropub, Varga Bar continues to attract patrons with its variety of craft beers and comfort food.
Among the recommended dishes are their chicken wings and popcorn chicken, which continue to delight visitors. Although some classic choices have disappeared from the menu, Varga Bar remains a popular destination for beer enthusiasts and fans of comfort food.
Varga Bar, once a remarkable establishment, still boasts a top-notch beer selection and decent food, though some cherished options like crab cheese fries are now absent. As a gastropub, Varga Bar continues to attract patrons with its variety of craft beers and comfort food.
Among the recommended dishes are their chicken wings and popcorn chicken, which continue to delight visitors. Although some classic choices have disappeared from the menu, Varga Bar remains a popular destination for beer enthusiasts and fans of comfort food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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9. Royal Tavern
Extensive craft beer selection and popular brunch spot
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Royal Tavern is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a great drink and a satisfying meal, particularly if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. While the menu may not be extensive, it always offers delicious options that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
The drink selection at Royal Tavern is abundant, diverse, and inventive. The bar takes pride in its variety and quality, offering a wide range of beers on tap, creative cocktails, and an extensive wine list. Whether you're a beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or a wine lover, you're sure to find something that suits your palate at this popular establishment.
Royal Tavern is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a great drink and a satisfying meal, particularly if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. While the menu may not be extensive, it always offers delicious options that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
The drink selection at Royal Tavern is abundant, diverse, and inventive. The bar takes pride in its variety and quality, offering a wide range of beers on tap, creative cocktails, and an extensive wine list. Whether you're a beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or a wine lover, you're sure to find something that suits your palate at this popular establishment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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10. Tap Room On 19th
Extensive Beer Selection
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Tap Room On 19th is a welcoming venue, known for its laid-back atmosphere even during busy weeknights. The bartenders are not only friendly but also highly attentive, ensuring that every customer is well taken care of. Their menu features a variety of delicious food options, with their wings being a popular choice. However, the main star of the show at Tap Room On 19th is their selection of burgers.
Their burgers have received high praise from customers for their exceptional quality and preparation. The patty is always cooked to perfection, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. One of the most popular burgers is the Brian Burger, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the establishment. Overall, Tap Room On 19th is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some delicious food and drinks in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
Tap Room On 19th is a welcoming venue, known for its laid-back atmosphere even during busy weeknights. The bartenders are not only friendly but also highly attentive, ensuring that every customer is well taken care of. Their menu features a variety of delicious food options, with their wings being a popular choice. However, the main star of the show at Tap Room On 19th is their selection of burgers.
Their burgers have received high praise from customers for their exceptional quality and preparation. The patty is always cooked to perfection, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. One of the most popular burgers is the Brian Burger, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the establishment. Overall, Tap Room On 19th is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some delicious food and drinks in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
11. SouthHouse
Spacious patio, extensive drink menu, game day specials
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The service at this establishment is consistently described as friendly and attentive, with staff who are noted for being kind and considerate. The atmosphere is pleasing and enjoyable, making it a great place to spend time.
The food and ambiance at this location are highly rated, with many praising the local and fun atmosphere. It is a great place to enjoy a meal, with a welcoming and enjoyable ambiance that adds to the overall experience.
The service at this establishment is consistently described as friendly and attentive, with staff who are noted for being kind and considerate. The atmosphere is pleasing and enjoyable, making it a great place to spend time.
The food and ambiance at this location are highly rated, with many praising the local and fun atmosphere. It is a great place to enjoy a meal, with a welcoming and enjoyable ambiance that adds to the overall experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. The Institute Craft Bar & Kitchen
Local ingredients, inventive menu, knowledgeable staff
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The drinks at this establishment are a major draw, praised for their quality and enjoyed by many. The staff is also a highlight, described as awesome and contributing to a positive experience.
The fried chicken sandwich is a standout menu item, highly recommended by reviewers. However, opinions about the food are mixed. Some people rave about the offerings, while others find them less than satisfying. The service and drink options are consistently rated highly, but the quality of the food seems to vary.
The drinks at this establishment are a major draw, praised for their quality and enjoyed by many. The staff is also a highlight, described as awesome and contributing to a positive experience.
The fried chicken sandwich is a standout menu item, highly recommended by reviewers. However, opinions about the food are mixed. Some people rave about the offerings, while others find them less than satisfying. The service and drink options are consistently rated highly, but the quality of the food seems to vary.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine