7 Best Gastropubs in Philadelphia

A Foodie's Guide to Philadelphia's Best Gastropubs: Where Great Beer Meets Gourmet Food

In Philadelphia, the line between a neighborhood tavern and a high-end restaurant has beautifully blurred, giving rise to an exceptional gastropub scene. These establishments honor the soul of a classic pub—a welcoming atmosphere and a great drink list—while elevating the food to a level of culinary excellence. They are the perfect spots for a thoughtfully sourced craft beer paired with a truly memorable meal. This expert guide, based on deep local knowledge and extensive reviews, will lead you to the best gastropubs in Philadelphia.

1. The Dandelion

• The Vibe: A stunningly authentic British pub located just off Rittenhouse Square, The Dandelion is a multi-level wonderland of cozy nooks, roaring fireplaces, and classic English decor. It's the perfect place to escape for a pint and a hearty meal.

  
  
  

• The Grub & Grog: The menu is a masterful execution of British classics, from the perfect Fish & Chips and savory Shepherd's Pie to a fantastic Sunday Roast. The beer program is equally impressive, with a focus on cask-conditioned ales and a wonderful selection of English and local craft beers.

• Location: 124 S 18th St, Rittenhouse Square

  
  
  

2. Standard Tap

• The Vibe: A true pioneer of the gastropub movement in Philadelphia, Standard Tap in Northern Liberties is a beloved institution. With its classic wooden bar, comfortable dining rooms, and one of the city's best rooftop decks, it's a go-to for a relaxed and consistently excellent experience.

• The Grub & Grog: Famous for its commitment to local, draft-only beer, the tap list is always a fantastic showcase of the region's best breweries. The food menu is packed with elevated comfort food, and their burger is consistently ranked as one of the absolute best in the city.

  
  
  

• Location: 901 N 2nd St, Northern Liberties

3. Pub & Kitchen

• The Vibe: The quintessential neighborhood gastropub, Pub & Kitchen is a sophisticated yet comfortable corner spot near Rittenhouse Square. It perfectly balances the feel of a friendly local tavern with the quality of a high-end bistro.

• The Grub & Grog: The menu is a thoughtful, seasonal take on American and European classics. The P&K Burger is legendary, but don't sleep on their other dishes, from fresh oysters to expertly prepared entrees. The bar program features excellent craft cocktails and a well-curated beer and wine list.

• Location: 1946 Lombard St, Rittenhouse Square

4. Good Dog Bar

• The Vibe: A cozy, three-story institution in Center City, Good Dog Bar is famous for its charming, dog-themed decor, featuring adorable photos of patrons' pups on the walls. The atmosphere is always lively, welcoming, and unpretentious.

• The Grub & Grog: This spot is home to one of Philadelphia's most iconic burgers: the Good Dog Burger, a half-pound patty stuffed with Roquefort cheese. The rest of the menu is equally delicious, offering a great selection of elevated pub fare.

• Location: 224 S 15th St, Center City

5. Fountain Porter

• The Vibe: A minimalist and effortlessly cool corner bar in South Philadelphia, Fountain Porter proves that less is more. The atmosphere is simple, relaxed, and all about the quality of its offerings.

• The Grub & Grog: The food menu is famously concise: a simple, perfect, and incredibly affordable cheeseburger. That's it. This allows them to focus on curating one of the most interesting and adventurous craft beer lists in the city, making it a true haven for beer lovers.

• Location: 1601 S 10th St, East Passyunk

6. Khyber Pass Pub

• The Vibe: An Old City institution with a rich history, Khyber Pass Pub features a beautiful, historic bar that dates back to the 1876 Centennial Celebration. The vibe is a fantastic blend of a classic Philly tavern and a New Orleans dive bar.

• The Grub & Grog: The menu is a spectacular offering of authentic New Orleans-inspired cuisine. From incredible Po' Boys and savory gumbo to smoky BBQ, the food is exceptional. This is all backed by a fantastic list of 22 rotating craft drafts.

• Location: 56 S 2nd St, Old City

7. Prohibition Taproom

• The Vibe: A stylish and comfortable neighborhood gastropub, Prohibition Taproom has a cool, retro feel that makes it a perfect hangout spot just north of Center City.

• The Grub & Grog: They offer a fantastic, rotating selection of craft beers and a delicious menu of elevated pub food. Their burger is a consistent standout, and they offer a great weekend brunch.

• Location: 501 N 13th St, Spring Arts

Disclaimer: Please note that restaurant hours, menus, and specials can change. It's always a good idea to check the restaurant's official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

Bill Zimmerman
Publisher
Publisher / Webmaster at Philly Bite Magazine.

Ten Best Gastropubs in Philadelphia, PA