Top Bars With A Rotating Beer Menu In Philadelphia
As diverse as Philadelphia is, it's only fitting that our bars carry an equally diverse selection of beers. Philly's bars are dedicated to bringing in the best beer, whether it's brewed locally, nationally or overseas. And great beer comes with great bars. Here are some places worth checking out in the city that feature a rotating draft selection. Don't forget to visit Philly's Tap Finder for information on where to find a specific beer or what's on tap at a certain bar!
Devil's Den
1148 S. 11th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 339-0855
www.devilsdenphilly.com
Devil's Den is a great place for craft beer aficionados in South Philly. The bar has 17 rotating drafts, including brews from local favorites like Sly Fox, as well as a selection of both limited and rare beers from across the nation and Europe. It's even carried a gluten-free beer. Enjoy half-off drafts during happy hour (Monday through Friday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.), too. Devil's Den has a humongous bottle beer list, with more than 200 varieties available. The kitchen serves an eclectic mix of comfort and elevated bar food, such as mussels, steak and sandwiches. Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday.
Grey Lodge Public House
6235 Frankford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19135
(215) 856-3591
www.greylodge.com
Grey Lodge Pub is a popular spot in Northeast Philly, and its ever-changing draft selection has landed it spots on lists like Draft Magazine's "Americas 100 Best Beer Bars for 2012" and BeerAdvocate's "Top 50 Beer Bars in America." Grey Lodge constantly updates its draft list online, which may see more than 25 different beers a week. Also listed online are the beers that are on-deck and that are being saved for special occasions (for instance, the Weyerbacher Quad is saved for Quad Day). Art from local artists line the walls and the first floor restrooms are decorated with tiles and quotes, inspired by Philly artist Isaiah Zagar of South Street's Magic Gardens fame. Grey Lodge also serves fresh and seasonal food using locally grown ingredients. Have the kids in tow? The second floor restaurant is family-friendly.
Johnny Brenda's
1201 N. Frankford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 739-9684
www.johnnybrendas.com
Johnny Brenda's is a favorite place for many in Fishtown. This restaurant, bar and music venue showcases local flavor by using only locally grown ingredients to create fresh and seasonal meals daily and by only serving locally-brewed beers. Johnny Brenda's has 10 beers on draft and two hand pumps for cask ale. It sells both year-round and seasonal drafts from local breweries, like Yards Brewing Company, Flying Fish Brewing Company and the Philadelphia Brewing Company. The menu is also ever-changing, with the daily selection written on a chalkboard. While you're here, head upstairs to catch some great live music.
Memphis Taproom
2331 E. Cumberland St.
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 425-4460
www.memphistaproom.com
Memphis Taproom is a haven for all types of beer lovers; you'll never have the same beer twice. Located in Kensington, this Philly bar has been featured in both local and national magazines as being one of the best around. The menu has something for everyone and also includes vegan and vegetarian options for the non-meat eaters out there. Look out for the beer garden to reopen this April in time for warmer weather.
Tria Taproom
2005 Walnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 557-8277
www.triacafe.com
Tria Taproom features a digital menu with up-to-date information on its draft selection (wine, beer, cider and soda across 40 taps) that tells you what is on tap and how much is left in each keg. The taproom provides each patron with a tablet, but this information is easily accessed online before heading over. Tria Taproom opened in November in Rittenhouse and is the third Tria Cafe installment in Philly, following the two popular wine bars. The menu features wood-fire grilled flatbreads, cheese plates, small snacks and salads. Tria Taproom's intimate feel makes it perfect for a date.
Kelly Neilson is a freelance writer living and working in Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
