Built in 1837 by William Strickland (famous architect of The Merchants' Exchange Building and The U.S. Mint), the National Mechanics Building is a prized landmark in Philadelphia. The building has been home to a variety of businesses; once the Mechanics National bank, a church, and a club. Now, the historic landmark is one of the city's most popular bars and restaurant. Keeping with the old-world feel, the bar has created a warm but quirky atmosphere filled with off-kilter accents and peculiar decor from home-made light fixtures to strange wall hangings. One thing not reflective of the peculiar history is the food and beer menu, which is brimming with fresh and local cuisine. Featuring gastro pub favorites like grilled flank steak with steak frites and seasonal vegetables, the National veggie burger (house favorite) and nostalgic dishes like home-made tomato soup with grilled cheese make this local pub a must-see. The beer menu is filled with local, national and international brews that will make any beer-lover rejoice in the heart of the Old City. Check out the happy hour on weekdays from 5p-7p for great prices on food and selected beers.
Franky Bradley is a classic American bar located off the busy 13th street corridor in Philadelphia. Engineered in a kitschy decor and bathed in dim lighting, this joint displays all kinds of quirky pieces from Elvis paintings to Tiffany lamps. Come here for a plate of rib-eye, tender chicken wings or some superb gnocchi, before heading to the dance the night away to some epic music.
For a fun, laid-back and exciting meal, Heritage restaurant located in Northern Liberties is an excellent choice. With live jazz music and an exciting seasonal menu, this eatery has a rustic and yet modern fell to it. Lush plants hang along the wall behind the long wooden bar, creating a cozy and intimate ambiance. Enjoy their variety of dishes which includes Brisket, Cape Cod Mussels, Pig Head Torchon, Foie Gras, Duck Leg Confit, Whole Trout, Pork & Clam and Rabbit Meatball. Wash down a meal here with a wine or a beer, choosing from their wide range of local craft ales.
Unwind with friends over the weekend at the 118 North, a local scene. This is a lively place where one can drink, dine and dance all under one roof. Relish on dishes such as Tater Tots, Eggrolls, Country Fried Chicken Fingers, pulled pork and much more. You can enjoy some live performances by local artists during the evening.
La Cabra is one of Berwyn's most acclaimed breweries and sits opposite Lancaster Avenue that runs through the heart of the city. A household name in the city's pubbing scene, La Cabra has been the recipient of numerous awards and has heavily featured in some of the country's most popular lifestyle magazines over the period of its short existence. Housed within a contemporary space, La Cabra offers a multidimensional pubbing experience to its guests thanks to its impressive selection of innovative brews that are ably complemented by an array of interesting grubs. If you're interested in learning more about their philosophy and brewing methods, you're more than welcome to tour the premises and the facility.
Open for twenty years now, Giumarello's Restaurant proudly serves the finest Tuscan food featuring Calamari Fritti, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and Riccota Cheese Gnnochi. Winner of the Zagat 2013 award, it is renowned for its quality entertainment and wholesome food. The G-bar in the same premises offers cocktails and live entertainment along with happy hour promotions. It is crowded most of the time therefore booking is advisable. Dress well and be warned that the prices are a little hefty here.