Introduction
Philly. The City of Brotherly Love. Cheesesteaks. Historical landmarks. But beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and iconic sandwiches lies a culinary landscape often overlooked: the phenomenal bar food scene. Forget those sad bowls of stale pretzels and lukewarm peanuts. Philadelphia bars are raising the bar, offering menus that rival some of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants. We’re talking elevated comfort food, globally inspired snacks, and shareable feasts designed to perfectly complement your favorite brew.
What makes Philly bar food so exceptional? It’s a combination of factors. First, the city boasts a diverse population, which translates into a melting pot of culinary influences. You’ll find everything from classic American comfort food to authentic Mexican street tacos, spicy Korean fried chicken, and delicate Italian pasta dishes, all within the cozy confines of your favorite neighborhood watering hole. Second, Philadelphia’s chef-driven approach to dining extends to its bars. Many establishments are helmed by talented chefs who are passionate about creating innovative and delicious dishes using high-quality ingredients. And finally, let’s be honest, Philadelphians know how to have a good time. We appreciate a well-crafted drink and crave satisfying food to fuel our late-night adventures.
This guide highlights the best bars in Philadelphia serving truly exceptional and crave-worthy food, from timeless comfort fare to groundbreaking creations. Prepare to discover your new favorite spot for a delicious bite alongside a perfectly poured pint.
The Elevated Classic: Taking Bar Staples to the Next Level
Sometimes, all you crave is a familiar comfort food. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for mediocrity. These Philly bars are taking classic bar staples and elevating them to new heights, using premium ingredients, innovative techniques, and a whole lot of love.
Let’s talk wings. Forget those rubbery, sauce-drenched messes. At Memphis Taproom in Fishtown, you’ll find crispy, juicy wings that are perfectly seasoned and expertly sauced. Whether you’re a fan of classic buffalo or prefer something a little more adventurous like their smoked paprika dry rub, you won’t be disappointed. The secret? They use fresh, high-quality wings and cook them to perfection.
And what about the iconic cheesesteak? While you can find a cheesesteak on almost every corner in Philly, not all are created equal. Instead of the tourist traps, check out Sidecar Bar & Grille in Graduate Hospital. They offer a “steak sandwich” that is absolutely delicious. It features shaved ribeye, onions, and your choice of cheese (whiz, provolone, or American) on a perfectly toasted roll. Pair it with one of their craft beers on tap for the ultimate Philly experience.
Craving a burger? Go for The Good King Tavern in Bella Vista. Their burger is a masterpiece, featuring a juicy patty, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and all the classic fixings on a toasted brioche bun. The quality of the beef and the care they put into each burger are evident in every bite. It is really a must try!
Finally, let’s not forget about fries. Forget those limp, greasy fries you find at some bars. Monk’s Cafe in Center City serves up incredible fries, whether you want them plain, loaded with cheese and bacon, or tossed in truffle oil. They are crispy, flavorful, and the perfect accompaniment to their extensive beer selection.
Globally Inspired Bites: Exploring International Flavors
Philly’s diverse culinary scene extends to its bars, where you can find globally inspired dishes that will transport your taste buds around the world.
For authentic Mexican street tacos, check out Sancho Pistola’s in Fishtown. Their tacos are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and bursting with flavor. From classic carnitas to spicy al pastor, there’s a taco for every palate. Don’t forget to pair them with one of their refreshing margaritas.
If you are in the mood for something a bit different, try the Korean fried chicken at Cheu Noodle Bar in Washington Square West. The chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and coated in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce. It is a perfect snack to share while enjoying a nice beer.
For something smaller, try the empanadas at Bar Hygge in Fairmount. You can find a variety of flavors such as pork or beef. It is a great little snack for a happy hour!
Shareable Feasts: Perfect for Groups and Celebrations
Bar food is often best enjoyed when shared with friends. These Philly bars offer a variety of shareable plates that are perfect for groups and celebrations.
Nothing brings people together like a plate of nachos. But forget those skimpy, sad nachos with processed cheese and a few sad jalapenos. The nachos at Garage in Fishtown are legendary, piled high with toppings and perfect for sharing.
If nachos aren’t your thing, try the pizzas at Pizzeria Beddia in Fishtown. While technically a pizzeria, it has a bar-like atmosphere. They make fantastic pizzas. From the classic Margherita to more inventive creations, there’s a pizza for everyone to enjoy.
Another shareable favorite is charcuterie boards. At Tria Cafe (multiple locations), you can create your own custom charcuterie board with a selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other delicious accompaniments. Pair it with a bottle of wine for a sophisticated and satisfying experience.
The Unexpected Gem: Discovering Culinary Surprises
Sometimes, the best bar food is the unexpected. These Philly bars offer unique and surprising menu items that will challenge your expectations of what bar food can be.
For creative veggie dishes, check out Vedge in Washington Square West. Vedge is a vegan restaurant, but they also have a great bar. They offer a variety of innovative and delicious veggie dishes that will even impress meat-eaters.
If you are looking for unique sandwiches, try the Italian Market Sandwich at Di Bruno Bros (multiple locations). Although Di Bruno Bros is an Italian Market and not a bar, they are a great place to find a sandwich to bring with you to a BYOB bar! You can find unique creations from all different Italian meats.
Finally, for oyster lovers, check out Oyster House in Center City. They offer a variety of fresh, high-quality oysters from around the world. Pair them with a crisp white wine for a sophisticated and refreshing experience.
Featured Bars: A Closer Look
Let’s dive into a few specific Philly bars that are consistently raising the bar (pun intended) when it comes to their food offerings:
Memphis Taproom (Fishtown)
This neighborhood bar exudes a relaxed, unpretentious vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends. But don’t let the casual atmosphere fool you; the food is seriously good. Their wings, as mentioned before, are a must-try. But don’t overlook their vegan options. Their veggie burger is a popular option. They also have a large variety of beers. Address: 2331 E Cumberland St, Philadelphia, PA 19125.
Sidecar Bar & Grille (Graduate Hospital)
Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, Sidecar is a favorite among locals. Their steak sandwich is a standout. Featuring perfectly cooked ribeye, caramelized onions, and your choice of cheese. They also have a great burger and a selection of other classic bar favorites. Address: 2201 Christian St, Philadelphia, PA 19146.
The Good King Tavern (Bella Vista)
This charming French-inspired tavern offers a unique blend of Parisian flair and Philly grit. Their burger is a masterpiece. This tavern offers a variety of French cuisine along with their staple burger. Address: 614 S 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147.
Garage (Fishtown)
A haven for craft beer lovers and nacho aficionados, Garage is a lively and bustling bar that’s always packed with energy. Their nachos are legendary, piled high with toppings and perfect for sharing. The beer selection is extensive, with a focus on local and regional brews. Address: 1231 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147.
Tips for Enjoying Philly Bar Food
To make the most of your Philly bar food experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Go with a group: Bar food is often best enjoyed when shared, so gather your friends and explore the city’s culinary offerings together.
Don’t be afraid to try new things: Philly’s bars are known for culinary creativity, so step outside your comfort zone and try something you’ve never had before.
Check menus online: Menus can change frequently, so it’s always a good idea to check the bar’s website or social media for the latest offerings.
Consider happy hour deals: Many bars offer discounted food during happy hour, so take advantage of these deals to save money and try a variety of dishes.
Pair your food with local craft beers: Philly has a fantastic beer scene, so be sure to pair your food with some of the local brews.
Support local businesses: Your patronage helps these bars thrive, so show your love and support the local culinary scene.
Conclusion
Philadelphia’s bar food scene is a hidden gem, offering a diverse and delicious array of culinary delights that rival some of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants. From elevated classics to globally inspired bites, shareable feasts to unexpected gems, there’s something for every palate and budget. So, ditch the boring bar snacks and embark on a culinary adventure through Philly’s best bars! Your taste buds will thank you. Exploring the city’s bar food scene is not just about finding a meal; it’s about experiencing the vibrant culture, the creative spirit, and the undeniable deliciousness that makes Philadelphia a truly special place to eat and drink. Cheers to that!
