You came, you voted, you picked Growlers as the Best New Bar in the 2013 Drinker’s Choice Awards. It’s not tough to understand why. The corner at Eighth and Fitzwater had been home to a pub for many years before, but it was never a hip destination. That has all changed, and now you’ll find a lively bar stocked with the best craft beer, backed up by a cozy, fireplace-lit dining room with solid and original snacks and meals.

It’s all the doing of Jay Willard, who worked for several years in the Starr Restaurant Organization, managing The Dandelion in Rittenhouse, among other venues. His knowledge of the Philly bar scene — and a strong beer focus, in particular — is complemented by that of his partner, Jason Evenchik, the wine-and-whiskey-savvy owner of Vintage Wine Bar and Time. Together they’ve given Bella Vista something special.

Growlers is that perfect combo of non-douchey sports bar that’s also a craft beer bar that’s also a great restaurant. There are outdoor seats, a signature cocktail list, a downstairs dart board and plenty of special events. The housemade potato chips are banging, and you can choose four different ways to order wings. Just this past weekend the bar launched brunch, served noon–4 PM on both Saturday and Sunday.

Have you been over to Growlers yet? Check it out and see if you agree with the drinking public of Philadelphia. Nothing to lose, a new favorite bar to gain.