Opened earlier in 2010, Kraftwork in Fishtown is a must-visit for those who love good beer and good food. There’s so much going on here, it’s hard to know what to write about first. The space itself? The food? The beer? I guess I’ll just jump right in.

Exposed brick walls, overlaid with partially removed wall-papered plaster, and large windows frame the bar that takes up a majority of the room. And what a bar it is – handmade from tiger maple and steel by sculptor Andrew Jevremovic, it seems almost a shame to eat on it. Carved maple chairs and tables surround the bar and offer plenty of seating. The real genius here is the industrial influence that somehow doesn’t feel at all industrial, instead making the space arty and modern. There are a number of touches throughout (including a huge, hand-forged saw hung over the bar) that really drive the industrial-cum-art theme home (make sure you check out the bathrooms!).

While the focus here is on beer (we’ll get to that in a minute), the food is stand-out, too. Burgers are cooked perfectly. The beer can chicken sandwich is a must-try, as are the crispy pork croquettes. Chef specials are always something special, like grilled skirt steak, various flatbreads, and different cheeses.

What I really love though (no surprise) is the beer list. 24 taps, most of which are domestic or international craft beers. The list is constantly rotating. You-pick-it flights of four beers are sold for $8. Want a growler? Buy one for $10. Have a 64 oz. growler? Bring it in and have it filled for just the cost of the beer (usually around $16, although PBR goes for $10). In the mood for something other than beer? There’s a selection of wines by the glass, as well as some well-thought-out custom cocktails.

If all of that wasn’t enough to make you happy, how about this - happy hour is Monday – Friday, 12 pm – 6 pm. That’s right. Happy hour pricing starts at noon every day. During this time you’ll receive $1 off all draft beers, glasses of wine, and specialty drinks. And I don’t know of anyone who wouldn’t feel happy with that.

11.04.10

Helene is a craft beer enthusiast who aims to educate women (and men) about the wonderful world of craft beer. In addition to reviewing beers and bars on Drink Philly, she writes beer-related musings on her blog, Philly Beer Girl. You can also follow Helene on Twitter, where she tweets way too often - and at odd times - about what she's drinking.