Is it a beer hall or a speakeasy? At The Farmers’ Cabinet, launched last year on Walnut Street in Wash West, you don’t have to choose. Despite the 25 taps offering rare European brews, it was their mixed drinks that ruled the roost in our 2012 Drinker’s Choice Awards, where F-Cab walked away with the Best Cocktail Bar win. The split-personality restaurant comes from husband-wife team Matt and Colleen Swartz and partner Matt Scheller, who we caught up with via email to gain more insight on what makes the spot special, and where else he might go for a great drink.

– Can you name two (or more) specific things that make The Farmers' Cabinet special/deserving of the win?

Since we first opened, our goal was to create a unique, highly detailed cocktail program that wasn't simply a list of "classic cocktails." Our cocktail menu is constantly evolving, on a seasonal basis, with an overall goal of creating incredible aromas and flavor profiles for our customers to experience. Our list has always emphasized, and will continue to emphasize, a broad spectrum of cocktail options: foundations of cocktails, original creations, cocktails inspired by beer styles, punch bowls and more.

– Can you tell us briefly why you were inspired to open The Farmers’ Cabinet?

Prior to Farmers' Cabinet we had a few smaller restaurants/bars, all specializing in either beer and food or cocktails and food.  We realized that most establishments only specialized in one or the other, like we were doing. The concept behind The Farmers' Cabinet was to put it all under one roof! We thought it would be incredible to be able to get an amazing selection of world class beer while also being able to order a superb cocktail. In addition, we wanted to put this option in a one-of-a-kind environment with a top notch food program, with the ultimate goal of taking our customers to another "time and place."

– If you had to choose a winner in this category that is not your own establishments, what would it be?  

Franklin Mortgage and Investment Co.

– Anything else you'd like to tell us?

We just want to thank Philadelphia for their votes, and for our "runner up" status in the best beer bar and best new bar categories!  Thank you!