Spirit Cruises January 2023 Leaderboard

Top Irish Bars in Philadelphia

Top Irish Bars in Philadelphia

Irish pubs are plentiful, since the Gaelic tradition of enjoying good whiskey and brew goes back many years. Here we present our picks for the top Irish bars in Philadelphia.

McGillin's Olde Ale House: This 153-year-old tavern was named after Irish immigrant William McGillin, who owned the bar and raised his 13 children upstairs. Nationally renowned, McGillin's carries a selection of local microbrews and two house specialties, McGillin’s Real Ale and McGillin’s Genuine Lager. You can't go wrong paying a visit to this legendary and much beloved Philly institution in Midtown Village (1310 Drury St; 215-735-5562).

Fergie's Pub: Also in Midtown Village you’ll find this traditional Irish pub run by Fergus Carey, who also is a partner in Monk’s Cafe and other beer havens around town. On the taps are a great selection of local beers, accompanied by Irish fare. You can also find a nightly Quizzo and live events, including traditional Irish music (1214 Sansom St.; 215-928-8118).

Moriarty's: This popular Center City pub has been around for over 77 years. Patrons of all kinds can take advantage of plentiful outdoor seating and the award-winning wings while throwing back a few brews. Indoors you’ll find a traditional atmosphere with vintage memorabilia, antique bars, a fireplace and large banquettes — it’s  perfect for group outings, enjoying karaoke or watching sporting events (1116 Walnut St.; 215-627-7676).

Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse: The Cavanaugh family of bars venerable Rittenhouse post covers all the bases with always solid draft and bottled beer selections, great food, fun cocktails and a impressive selection of whiskies. (1823 Sansom St.; 215-665-9500)

Fado Irish Pub: Pronounced “f'doe,” the word is an Irish expression meaning "long ago." Fado strives to give the experience of a modern day Irish pub that is infused with tradition and history. This is a great spot to watch soccer matches and a hang out during the World Cup. Sip on delicious Irish whiskey or a well-poured Guinness (1500 Locust St.; 215-893-9700).

Bards Irish Bar: Irish owned and operated since 1995, the slogan of this Rittenhouse pub is "The Bards, for a real taste of Ireland." Enjoy a good selection of domestic and imported beers, Irish-influenced food and live music and quizzo (2013 Walnut St.; 215-569-9585).

Plough & the Stars: A mainstay in Old City, this Euro-sports-centered bar is great for watching rugby and soccer matches, as well as enjoying live music. Food specialities include Irish-style curry and a Guinness casserole. Don’t miss the mean selection of scotch and Irish whiskeys, as well as a solid beer lineup to choose from (123 Chestnut St.; 215-733-0300).

Irish Pol: Though you’ll be hard pressed to spot green paper shamrocks or any of the other trappings of St. Patrick’s Day, this Old City spot fully embraces the merriment and hospitality that’s often associated with the people of the Emerald Isle. It’s also home to one of the neighborhood's largest draft lists, and cheapest happy hours. (45 S 3rd St.; 267-761-9532)

Tir Na Nog: A beloved happy hour spot, this contemporary Irish outpost is another great place to kick back with large groups. Or just stop in to check out seasonal sporting events while downing a beer from one of thr 21 taps (1600 Arch St.; 215-514-1700).

Cavanaugh’s HeadhouseAlong with the obligatory Guinness on draft, the Cavs crew’s Headhouse location offers a constantly rotating lineup of popular local and craft beers. The cocktails are also worth checking out, as is the menu, which runs the gamut from wings and burgers to fish and chips and shepherd's pie. (421 S 2nd St.; 215-928-9307)

Slainte: Located right next to 30th Street Station, this pub's name (pronounced "slawn-cha",) is Gaelic for “Cheers!” The 25 rotating beers on draft are poured via a European draft beer system imported from County Cork, Ireland. The modern Irish pub also has a great selection of Irish whiskeys — you'll definitely have plenty to cheer about (3000 Market St.; 215-222-7400).

McGlinchey's Bar & Grill: Beer plus jukebox plus hot dogs equals no-nonsense fun. This isn’t exactly a traditional Irish pub, but it's one of Philly's best dive bars, and one of the few spots you can still get away with smoking indoors (259 S. 15th St.; 215-735-1259).

Black Sheep Pub: This three story townhouse decorated with antique fare and a fireplace has remained a popular hangout for pub dwellers in Rittenhouse. Specialties include shepherd's pie and Guinness Irish stew. Also enjoy Quizo every Wednesday evening (247 S. 17th St.; 215-545-9473)
 


Tags: Beer, Holiday, Whiskey
Recent Articles
spacer

Feedback

How are we doing? Tell us what you like or don't like and how we can improve. We would love to hear your thoughts!

*Name:
*E-mail:
*Suggestions:
 
Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Center City District will close the streets allowing pedestrians to enjoy outdoor seating, music, and activiti...read more ›

by Michelle Cryder Sep 6, 2024
Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

We've rounded up all of the must-stop spots for sipping spirits by the beach, whether your vibe is dark and sexy or vibrant and divey....read more ›

by Drink Philly Aug 26, 2024
SPONSORED
Drink Nation Store Rectangle
The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

Have you ever dreamed of having an amazing home bar, filled with bottles you actually use and the tools you need to execute a fine crafted cocktail? E...read more ›

by The Drink Nation Nov 14, 2014
Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

This time on Behind the Bar, we interview bartender and bar manager Jillian Moore of My Loup. We chat with her about her cocktail menu, the effects of...read more ›

by Drink Philly May 13, 2024
Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare is the newest endeavor by Chef Townsend Wentz, located at 2121 Walnut Street, near Rittenhouse Square...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 22, 2024
Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

We've got your definitive list of where to drink outside in Philadelphia...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling is transforming their fourth floor space into a secret garden to celebrate Earth Day, ...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Dizengoff: Inside Look at the New Reimagined Restaurant, Bar, & Cocktails

Dizengoff: Inside Look at the New Reimagined Restaurant, Bar, & Cocktails

Last year, Dizengoff and Abe Fisher decided to join forces and embark on an exciting new chapter. After closin...read more ›

by Drink Philly Mar 5, 2024
Behind the Bar: Tom Foy of Butcher Bar

Behind the Bar: Tom Foy of Butcher Bar

In this installment of Behind the Bar, we sit down with bartender Tom Foy of Butcher Bar...read more ›

by Drink Philly Feb 19, 2024
SPONSORED
Drink Nation Home Bar Project Bottom Rectangle 2
View all Articles

Sign up to get weekly drinking news, bar reviews, events and more sent directly to your inbox!

Close