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 tavern opened in 1860 and 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)

The Bards
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 from which to choose. (123 Chestnut St.; 215-733-0300)

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 the 21 taps. (1600 Arch St.; 215-514-1700)

Cavanaugh’s Headhouse
Along 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)

Top image via Flickr; Irish Breakfast at The Brads by Marci Prester