1. McGillin's Olde Ale House (1310 Drury St)The Undisputed Legend
McGillin's Olde Ale House isn't just an Irish pub; it's the quintessential Philadelphia Irish pub.
- History: Opened in 1860 by Irish immigrants William and Catherine McGillin, McGillin's is the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philadelphia, a living piece of the city's history. It has survived wars, Prohibition, and countless changes in the city, remaining a beloved institution.
- The Guinness: Poured with care, the Guinness here is consistently praised for its creamy head and proper temperature.
- The Whiskey: A solid selection of Irish whiskeys, including classics like Jameson and Tullamore D.E.W.
- The Food: Don't underestimate the food! McGillin's offers hearty pub fare, including a surprisingly good cheesesteak, shepherd's pie, and beer-battered fish and chips.
- The Atmosphere: Expect a lively, crowded, and historic atmosphere, especially during lunch, on game days, and, of course, on St. Patrick's Day.
- Best Irish Bar in the U.S.: Awarded in 2024.
2. Fadó Irish Pub (1500 Locust St): Modern Irish with a Traditional Heart
Fadó (meaning "long ago" in Gaelic) offers a contemporary take on the Irish pub experience.
- The Guinness: A standout, served with a "silky" head that lingers, indicating proper pouring and care.
- The Whiskey: A deep roster of Irish whiskeys, from Bushmills to Redbreast.
- The Food: Classic pub staples with a modern twist, including bangers and mash, fish and chips, and a traditional Irish breakfast (featuring sausage, rashers, and black pudding).
- The Atmosphere: Lively and modern, popular with soccer fans and those seeking a more contemporary pub vibe.
3. The Black Taxi (2130 Fairmount Ave): A Neighborhood Haven for Irish Culture
The Black Taxi in Fairmount is a neighborhood favorite, known for its authentic Irish feel.
- The Guinness: Poured "slow and steady" for a textbook-perfect pint.
- The Whiskey: A robust selection, featuring Irish favorites like Teeling and Powers.
- The Food: Traditional Irish fare with a focus on quality, including Irish sausage rolls, spice bags (a Dublin favorite), and crispy fish and chips.
- The Atmosphere: A true neighborhood pub with a strong sense of community, especially during events like St. Patrick's Day and Irish New Year.
4. Moriarty's Restaurant & Pub (1116 Walnut St): Wings, Whiskey, and a Lively Buzz
Moriarty's, a Walnut Street fixture for over 77 years, blends Irish pub charm with a focus on great food.
- The Guinness: Generously poured and well-settled, a crowd-pleaser.
- The Whiskey: An expansive selection, going beyond Irish staples to include a wide range of options.
- The Food: Known for its award-winning wings (especially the honey barbecue), shepherd's pie, and Guinness beef stew.
- The Atmosphere: Lively and bustling, popular with both Center City workers for lunch and a night-out crowd.
5. Con Murphy's Irish Pub (1700 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy): A Relaxed Parkway Escape
Con Murphy's, located on the scenic Benjamin Franklin Parkway, offers a more laid-back Irish pub experience.
- The Guinness: Smooth, cold, and expertly poured.
- The Whiskey: A good selection, with a particular highlight being Tullamore D.E.W. cocktails (like the Gold Rush).
- The Food: Cozy pub fare, featuring buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches, fish and chips, and a weekend Irish breakfast.
- The Atmosphere: Relaxed and unfussy, a popular spot for museum-goers and those seeking a break from the city's bustle.
6. The Plough & The Stars (123 Chestnut St): Old City Charm and Live Music
The Plough & The Stars, in Philadelphia's historic Old City, combines Irish hospitality with a vibrant atmosphere.
- The Guinness: Dark, rich, and expertly tapped, a testament to proper care.
- The Whiskey: A focus on Irish labels, including Jameson and Knappogue Castle.
- The Food: Authentic Irish dishes, including Guinness casserole, fish and chips (made with haddock), and a traditional Irish breakfast.
- The Atmosphere: Warm and inviting, with live Irish music on Sundays adding to the authentic pub experience.
Philadelphia's Irish pubs are more than just places to drink; they're cultural institutions, reflecting the city's rich Irish heritage and its enduring love of good company, good food, and good drink. These six establishments represent the best of Philly's Irish pub scene, each offering a unique blend of tradition, atmosphere, and, of course, perfectly poured Guinness and a wide selection of Irish whiskeys. Whether you're seeking a historic landmark like McGillin's, a modern pub experience like Fadó, or a neighborhood gem like The Black Taxi, Philadelphia has an Irish pub to suit every taste. Sláinte!
