Spirit Cruises January 2023 Leaderboard

Where to Find the Citywide Special

Variations abound
Where to Find the Citywide Special

The Citywide Special has become a Philadelphia institution over the past decade. Traditionally a shot of Jim Beam alongisde a PBR pounder for just $3, variations on the inexpensive beer-and-whiskey combo are now found all over the city. A number of bars have taken credit for popularizing what is now simply referred to as either "The Citywide" or “The Special” but most agree that it was birthed at Bob & Barbara’s... or maybe a different dive bar.

While it’s not quite as widespread as its name suggests (higher-end establishments don’t usually put it on their menus), you’ll be able to satisfy your special craving in almost every neighborhood. Here’s a quick rundown of who’s offering what. (Know another we don't have? Leave us a note in the comments.)

Atlantis: PBR is replaced with a Kenzinger bottle (2442 Frankford Ave.).

The Barbary: Traditional (951 Frankford Ave.).

Barcade: (This only sort of counts) During happy hour, get a pint of craft draft beer with the Beam for $7 (1114 Frankford Ave.).

Bierstube: Narragansett pounder with a shot of Root is the special here (206 Market St.).

Bob & Barbara’s: Traditional – these folks may have started the whole idea, after all (1509 S St.).

Bridgid's: Narragansett is the pounder here (726 N. 24th St.).

Cantina Dos Segundos: The Mexi-version features a can of Tecate with a shot of Sauza tequila (931 N. 2nd St.).

Catahoula: The pounder is Narragansett, $5 with the shot of whiskey (775 S. Front St.).

Dirty Frank’s: Traditional (347 S 13th St.).

The Dive: Traditional (947 E. Passyunk Ave.).

Doobie’s: Sly Fox can takes the place of the PBR and the cost is $5 (2201 Lombard St.).

El Bar: Heaven Hill instead of Jim Beam. Also Kensington Happy Meal includes two hot dogs, a bag of chips, PBR, and a toy for $5 (1356 N. Front St.).

Elena’s Soul Lounge: Traditional (4912 Baltimore Ave.).

Era: Heaven Hill shot and Lionshead bottle instead of the usual (2743 Poplar St.).

Fiume: The Special here costs $4 (229 S 45th St.).

Kung-Fu Necktie: Old Crow is the whiskey shot (1248 N Front St.).

Lloyd Whiskey Bar: Old Grand Dad with Miller High Life for $5 (529 E. Girard Ave.).

Locust Rendezvous: The $2 beer and shot special changes weekly (1415 Locust St.).

London Grill: Traditional PBR pounder with a shot of Old Granddad for $5 (2301 Fairmount Ave.).

Oscar’s: Jack Daniels edges out ole’ Jim as the shot of choice (1524 Sansom St.).

Port Richmond Pourhouse: [Currently Closed] Traditional (2253 E. Clearfield St.).

Queen of Sheba: Traditional (4511 Baltimore Ave.).

Ray’s Happy Birthday Bar: Traditional (1200 E Passyunk Ave.).

WineO: Traditional (447 Poplar St.).

Photo via Flickr user throgers


Tags: Beer, Spirits
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:
 
Best Oktoberfests, Festivals, Block Parties & Halloween Events to Celebrate Fall in Philly

Best Oktoberfests, Festivals, Block Parties & Halloween Events to Celebrate Fall in Philly

Crisp weather and shorter days bring a variety of autumn events to Philadelphia. From yacht parties to haunted...read more ›

by Drink Philly Sep 15, 2024
Bar Palmina: Inside Look at Fishtown's Newest No-Alcohol Bar

Bar Palmina: Inside Look at Fishtown's Newest No-Alcohol Bar

One of the hottest new cocktail spots to hit the Fishtown neighborhood serves cocktails with no alcohol at all...read more ›

by Drink Philly Sep 11, 2024
SPONSORED
Spirit Cruises January 2023 Desktop Bottom Rectangle 1
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
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
Local Winery Spotlight: Vox Vineti Wines

Local Winery Spotlight: Vox Vineti Wines

Ed Lazzerini says his goal is clear - to make world class wine in Pennsylvania. From the taste of it, he is well on his way. ...read more ›

by Drink Philly Nov 21, 2020
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
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
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