What Are The 5 Best Ale Houses in Philadelphia?

Philly's Finest Pints: A Guide to the 5 Best Ale Houses in Philadelphia

Philadelphia's identity is inextricably linked with beer. It's a city of taverns and breweries, with a history that stretches from the colonial-era pubs where the Founding Fathers gathered to a modern craft beer scene that is among the best in the nation. At the heart of this culture is the classic ale house—a welcoming place for a proper pint and good conversation. This guide will lead you to five of the best and most essential ale houses that every beer lover must visit in the City of Brotherly Love.

1. McGillin's Olde Ale House (Midtown Village)

• The Vibe: An undisputed Philadelphia landmark, McGillin's holds the title of the city's oldest continuously operating tavern, having poured its first beer in 1860. A visit here is a step back in time, with a lively, historic atmosphere spread across two floors, its walls covered in memorabilia from its 160+ year history.
• The Experience: Known for its extensive selection of local and regional craft beers on tap, McGillin's offers a true ale house experience. It's the perfect place to enjoy classic pub food, sing along during karaoke nights, and soak in the history of a true Philadelphia institution.
• Location: 1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

2. Monk's Cafe (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Vibe: While it's a Belgian beer emporium, Monk's Cafe is arguably the most famous and influential beer bar in Philadelphia and is consistently ranked among the best in the world. It's a pilgrimage site for serious beer connoisseurs, with a cozy, dark-wood interior that feels like a classic European tavern.
• The Experience: Monk's is renowned for its "Beer Bible," an encyclopedic menu of rare and exceptional Belgian and Trappist ales. The knowledgeable bartenders guide you through the incredible selection, which pairs perfectly with their legendary mussels and pomme frites. A visit here is an essential educational and delicious experience.
• Location: 264 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA 19102

3. The Dandelion (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Vibe: For an authentic British pub experience, The Dandelion is a must-visit. This sophisticated homage to the classic London pub features a whirlwind of cozy, idiosyncratic rooms, complete with fireplaces and vintage decor.
• The Experience: This is one of the best places in the city to find expertly poured cask ales (or "real ale"), served at the proper temperature from traditional hand pumps. The menu is packed with updated takes on British classics like fish and chips and Welsh rarebit, making it a perfect spot for a comforting meal and a perfect pint.
• Location: 124 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

4. Yards Brewing Company (Northern Liberties)

• The Vibe: One of Philadelphia's original and most beloved craft breweries, Yards has grown into a city icon. Their massive, modern, and family-friendly taproom in Northern Liberties is a sun-drenched and cheerful space perfect for a gathering of any size.
• The Experience: Yards specializes in English-inspired ales and is famous for its "Ales of the Revolution" series, based on the recipes of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. With a full food menu crafted by an acclaimed chef, it's a top-tier destination for enjoying fantastic, locally brewed ales right at the source.
• Location: 500 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

5. Standard Tap (Northern Liberties)

• The Vibe: A true pioneer of the modern Philly craft beer scene, Standard Tap was one of the first pubs in the city to dedicate its taps exclusively to local and regional breweries. It's a beloved, multi-level neighborhood gastropub with a warm, rustic, and always-buzzing atmosphere.
• The Experience: With its daily-changing chalkboard menu of gourmet pub fare, a fantastic selection of Pennsylvania-brewed ales, and a cozy upstairs deck, Standard Tap is the perfect expression of the modern American ale house.
• Location: 901 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

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Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff

Philadelphia Best Of Series consists of a round-up of the best places to find great food, entertainment, and more in Philly.

Best Philadelphia Ale Houses