The 10 Best Bars In Philadelphia’s Fishtown: A Guide to the Neighborhood’s Top Spots
Discover Fishtown’s vibrant bar scene with this guide to the neighborhood’s top watering holes and drinking experiences.
Welcome to Fishtown: Philadelphia’s Nightlife Hub
Fishtown, once a working-class neighborhood, has emerged as one of Philadelphia’s most dynamic districts for food, art, and especially nightlife. Its bar scene is a magnet for locals and visitors alike, offering everything from dive bars and artisanal cocktail lounges to lively music venues and craft breweries. This guide dives into the 10 best bars in Fishtown, each with its own unique character, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Philly bar culture.
The Top 10 Bars in Fishtown
1. Frankford Hall
One of Fishtown’s most beloved spots, Frankford Hall brings a slice of Bavarian beer garden culture to Philadelphia. The sprawling outdoor space, communal tables, and menu of German sausages and beers (including local and imported favorites) make it ideal for groups. There’s even a life-sized Jenga and outdoor fire pits, adding to the festive, communal feel.
- Atmosphere: Lively, casual, family-friendly
- Signature Drinks: German and local beers
- Highlights: Outdoor seating, bratwurst, pretzels, ping-pong
- Best For: Day drinking, group gatherings, sports viewing
2. Pizzeria Beddia
Not just a pizza joint, Pizzeria Beddia doubles as a cozy neighborhood bar with wine, beer, and an ever-changing menu of creative cocktails. Its minimalist décor and intimate vibe make it the perfect place to unwind with a pie and a glass of natural wine. The bar staff here are known for their passion and creativity, making each visit memorable.
- Atmosphere: Intimate, trendy, laid-back
- Signature Drinks: Creative cocktails, natural wines
- Highlights: Famous pizza, rotating drink menu
- Best For: Date night, casual drinks, quick bites
3. Johnny Brenda’s
A Fishtown institution, Johnny Brenda’s is a triple threat: excellent bar, live music venue, and gastropub. The upstairs stage hosts local and national bands, while the downstairs bar serves up local brews and exceptional bar food. It’s a neighborhood anchor, beloved for its authenticity and community spirit.
- Atmosphere: Local, eclectic, musical
- Signature Drinks: Local beers, specialty cocktails
- Highlights: Live music, fish sandwich, friendly staff
- Best For: Live music lovers, bar food enthusiasts
4. Kraftwork
Artful beer selection is the hallmark of Kraftwork, where the taps rotate through a carefully curated list of local and regional craft beers. The industrial-chic space, featuring exposed brick and large windows, is both stylish and comfortable. Food options are limited but well-paired with the beer offerings.
- Atmosphere: Industrial, modern, relaxed
- Signature Drinks: Craft beer, specialty drafts
- Highlights: Rotating taps, knowledgeable staff
- Best For: Beer aficionados, casual after-work drinks
5. Fette Sau
This Brooklyn-based import brings its legendary barbecue and whiskey expertise to Fishtown. The bar is stocked with an impressive selection of bourbons, whiskies, and ryes, all perfect for pairing with smoked meats. The rustic, communal tables encourage conversation and sharing.
- Atmosphere: Rustic, lively, whiskey-focused
- Signature Drinks: Whiskey, bourbon, rye
- Highlights: Smoked meats, extensive whiskey list
- Best For: Whiskey lovers, meat lovers, group dinners
6. Interstate Draft House
Interstate Draft House sets itself apart with a rotating list of 20 craft beers on tap, plus a thoughtful selection of bottled beers. The bar takes its food seriously, too, with upscale bar snacks and entrees. The vibe is neighborhood-friendly, with both locals and newcomers feeling welcome.
- Atmosphere: Neighborhood, friendly, communal
- Signature Drinks: Rotating craft beers
- Highlights: 20 taps, creative bar food
- Best For: Craft beer fans, casual night out
7. Fishtown Tavern
For a no-frills, authentic Fishtown experience, Fishtown Tavern delivers. This corner bar is all about local flavor, with unpretentious drinks, affordable prices, and a cozy, divey feel. It’s the quintessential spot for a casual beer and some neighborhood gossip.
- Atmosphere: Dive bar, casual, local
- Signature Drinks: Standard beers, shots
- Highlights: Affordable drinks, laid-back vibe
- Best For: Local dive bar experience, affordable night out
8. Lloyd Whiskey Bar
Whiskey lovers rejoice at Lloyd’s, where the focus is on premium spirits, particularly American bourbons and ryes. The cozy, wood-paneled interior and outdoor patio make Lloyd’s a great spot for a quiet drink or a relaxed night out. The knowledgeable bartenders can help guide you through their impressive collection.
- Atmosphere: Cozy, whiskey-focused, upscale
- Signature Drinks: Bourbon, rye, whiskey cocktails
- Highlights: Extensive whiskey menu, outdoor patio
- Best For: Whiskey tasting, upscale drinks, small groups
9. Barcade
Barcade combines retro arcade games with craft beer, creating a lively, nostalgic spot for both gamers and beer lovers. The beer list features over 20 rotating taps, and the cabinets are stocked with classic arcade games from the ’80s and ’90s. It’s a playful, energetic place that’s hard to leave.
- Atmosphere: Fun, retro, bustling
- Signature Drinks: Craft beer, rotating taps
- Highlights: Classic arcade games, craft beer
- Best For: Gamers, beer lovers, group outings
10. Murph’s Bar
Family-owned and family-friendly, Murph’s Bar is a neighborhood staple, offering classic cocktails, beers, and a cozy “Cheers”-like atmosphere. The trivia nights, karaoke, and special events add a layer of local charm. It’s a place where everyone knows your name, or at least, makes you feel welcome.
- Atmosphere: Neighborhood, friendly, warm
- Signature Drinks: Classic cocktails, standard beers
- Highlights: Trivia nights, karaoke, sports viewing
- Best For: Neighborhood regulars, trivia fans, family-friendly ambiance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best time to visit Fishtown bars?
Weekends are lively, but weeknights can be more relaxed. Most bars have happy hours, and some, like Johnny Brenda’s, have live music on select nights—check their schedules.
Are Fishtown bars walkable from each other?
Yes, the best bars in Fishtown are clustered along Frankford Avenue and Girard Avenue, making them easily walkable.
Do Fishtown bars serve food?
Most have food menus, from light snacks to full meals—Frankford Hall, Fette Sau, and Pizzeria Beddia are especially food-focused.
Is Fishtown safe for a bar crawl?
Fishtown is generally safe, especially along the main bar strips. As with any nightlife area, stay aware of your surroundings.
Are there any speakeasy-style bars in Fishtown?
While Fishtown is more casual, spots like Lloyd Whiskey Bar offer an upscale, refined vibe.
How to Make the Most of Your Fishtown Bar Crawl
- Plan your route: Start at Frankford Hall for a group vibe, then move towards Johnny Brenda’s for music, and save Murph’s for late-night locals.
- Try the local beers: Fishtown is a craft beer haven—don’t miss the rotating taps at Kraftwork and Interstate Draft House.
- Eat as you go: Pair your drinks with Fishtown’s culinary highlights—pizza, barbecue, and German eats.
- Check for events: Trivia, live music, and karaoke nights add extra fun—check bar social media for updates.
- Go local: Chat with bartenders and regulars for insider tips and hidden gems.
Fishtown Bar Scene: In Summary
Fishtown’s bar scene is diverse, creative, and deeply rooted in the neighborhood’s identity. From German beer gardens and whiskey havens to retro arcade bars and cozy dives, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these top 10 bars offers a true taste of Fishtown’s spirited, evolving nightlife.
Table: Fishtown Bar Highlights at a Glance
| Bar Name | Type | Signature Drinks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frankford Hall | Beer Garden | German & local beers | Groups, outdoor fun |
| Pizzeria Beddia | Pizza Bar | Creative cocktails, wine | Casual bites, date night |
| Johnny Brenda’s | Gastropub, Music Venue | Local beer, cocktails | Live music, bar food |
| Kraftwork | Craft Beer Bar | Rotating craft beers | Beer lovers |
| Fette Sau | Barbecue/Whiskey Bar | Whiskey, bourbon | Meat & whiskey pairing |
| Interstate Draft House | Craft Beer Bar | 20 rotating taps | Craft beer, bar snacks |
| Fishtown Tavern | Neighborhood Dive | Standard beers | Cheap drinks, local vibe |
| Lloyd Whiskey Bar | Whiskey Lounge | Bourbon, rye | Upscale drinks, small groups |
| Barcade | Arcade Beer Bar | Craft beer | Games, group fun |
| Murph’s Bar | Local Neighborhood Bar | Classic cocktails, beers | Trivia, karaoke, sports |
Conclusion
From eclectic beer gardens and live music venues to neighborhood dives and whiskey bars, Fishtown’s bar scene is as diverse as it is dynamic. Each spot offers its own flavor, both literally and figuratively, making Fishtown a must-visit destination for nightlife lovers in Philadelphia. Whether you’re seeking craft cocktails, local brews, or just a friendly place to unwind, these 10 bars showcase the best of what Fishtown has to offer—and ensure that every night out is memorable.
