For the avid beer enthusiast who appreciates the fine art and craft behind a perfect glass, Philadelphia’s neighborhoods are rich with local breweries unique to the city. In fact, Philly is home to over a hundred breweries. Not sure where to start? Here are some great spots to enjoy a fresh pint (if you’re 21 or over, of course).
Address: 1776 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 445-223-1130
Instagram: @victorybeer
Founders Bill Covaleski and Ron Barchet have created a beer-drinking experience and culture in the heart of Philadelphia that invites guests to sit down, socialize and enjoy the views of the city. Victory Brewing Company is the second-largest craft brand family in Pennsylvania.
Their drink menu includes lagers, ales, sours, hop-forwards, darks, Belgians and more. At the Center City location, customers can choose from a variety of 30 draft beers. The price starts at $8 for a glass.
Pamela Jeng, a waiter at this location, said she has been working there for three years and is an avid fan of being able to try their array of beers.
“My favorite draft beer is the Liberty Bell Ringer, a special release that dropped on Father’s Day,” Jeng said.
You should try: Golden Monkey, a Belgian-style beer that tastes of banana and fruits. Its light touch creates a smooth and easy taste with hints of sweetness. This beer pours a golden liquid with a foamy layer at the top. This brew is offered year-round.
Address: 1023 Hamilton St., Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: 215-398-1900
Instagram: @lovecitybrewing
Love City Brewing owners Kevin and Melissa Walter started their business based on their mutual love for good beer.
Their taproom list of draft beers ranges from $5 to $9. For a bargain, draft beers are $2 off during Happy Hour, which is from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
You should try: The Love City Lager draft beer’s yellowish-brown color catches the eye as the liquid pours smoothly from the tap. After the first sip, a malty sensation emerges. Lingering orange hints appear all within a clean-tasting beer. It offers a very versatile taste anyone would enjoy.
Address: 4120 Main St., Philadelphia, PA 19127
Phone: 215-482-8220
Instagram: @manayunkbrewingco
With a perfect location alongside the Schuylkill River, Manayunk Brewing Company offers customers a scenic view of the Manayunk Canal. Entrepreneur Harry Renner IV started the company and restaurant in 1996, and it’s going strong today.
On the current drinks menu, 16 tap beers are available to taste. Outside on the deck at the Tiki Bar, you can choose from deck drafts and cans. They offer their own drafts, such as Krooks Mill and Schuylkill Punch, in addition to other local drafts from the Philadelphia area, such as Flying Fish Brewing Company’s Go Birds and New Belgium Brewing Company’s Voodoo Ranger IPA.
During Happy Hour, every Tuesday through Friday 4-6 p.m., all drafts except Guinness are $5. No other prices are available at Manayunk Brewing Company’s website.
You should try: The Flying Fish Go Birds beer is known for its fruity, mango mouthful. This twist on a traditional light beer gives beer lovers an option for a sweeter tang, and the froth-to-liquid ratio makes for a perfect relaxing pint.
PHOTOS: KAITLYN TRAN ’25
Address: 3705 W. School House Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129
Phone: 215-483-8833
Instagram: @wissahickonbrewingcompany
The Wissahickon Brewing Company started with the Gill family homebrewing in their mother’s kitchen. It officially opened in 2017, and in 2019, was awarded Philadelphia Magazine’s Best Brew Pub of the Year.
In the seven years that the Wissahickon Brewing Company has existed, it has also acquired a coffee shop and kombucha company. In addition, it partners with other small businesses, like local food trucks, throughout the year. Taproom drafts start at $4 and are $1 off on weekdays from 4-6 p.m.
Kendall Bryers, bartender and shift lead, has been working with the company for over four years. Bryers recommended the Gazebo: Chai and the Frūx: Mango Calamansi.
You should try: The Frūx: Mango Calamansi is a sensation of sour and sweet that provides the best combination of flavors. Its smooth finish makes it easy to go down, and the taste resembles a dessert.
