Happy National IPA Day!
We are celebrating by rounding up some local brews for you (and let’s be honest, ourselves too). For over 150 years, Philadelphians have been brewing their own beer. The first known lager was created in 1840 by John Wagner near Poplar Street, which is now known as Northern Liberties. As word got around and more people tasted it, the industry began to grow, especially in the area between Girard and Oxford Streets, which is now sort of known as Brewerytown. You can learn more about the beer and community through free tours that many of the following establishments offer.
Maybe I’m a little biased because I spent five years in West Philadelphia, but Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant is one of the best gems in town. Along with some kickass pizza, you’ll find Rye IPA, Johnny Berliner, Nit Wit, Beer Four All Seasons, Pimp My Rye, and Summer Session all on tap here.
One of the most popular breweries in town is by far Yards Brewing Company. Their signature ales that we’re all so familiar with are India Pale Ale, Extra Special Ale, Philadelphia Pale Ale, Brawler, and the Love Stout. However, this time of year you’ll also find Saison or Cape of Good Hope. To keep ties to this great, historic city, Yards has crafted three special Ales of the Revolution: General Washington’s Tavern Porter, Thomas Jefferson’s Tavern Ale, and Poor Richard’s Tavern Spruce.
Triumph Brewing Company is right on Chestnut Street in Old City. The large brewery is known for their IPAs and creative brews. Most nights, you’ll be able to find some great live music inside the huge space. Right now, you can enjoy Bengal Gold IPA, Smoked Rye, Chocolate Milk Stout, Ginger Cream Ale, Amber Ale, Belgian Saison, Ctrl Alt Delete, Philly Common, Southern English Brown (on cask).
Right in the heart of Center City is Nodding Head Brewery and Restaurant on 15th and Sansom Streets. If you’ve never been, the place gets its name from the collection of bobblehead dolls displayed inside. Currently on tap are BPA (CASK), Grog, H.O.P.S Head, Ich Bin Ein Berliner Weisse, Monkey Knife Fight, Ostap, and Twei Koppen.
On the edge of Fishtown/Kensington, you’ll find the Philadelphia Brewing Company. Emphasizing their local touch, many of their beers are reminiscent of the area. Visit and try their Newbold IPA, Kenzinger, Pennsylvania Pale Ale, Rowhouse Red, Walt Wit, Fleur de Lehigh, and Commonwealth Cider.
A little further down the Schuylkill River lies Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant. With multiple dining rooms on two floor and a deck, this brewpub is very popular. It doesn’t hurt that their beers are delicious. This summer features their Summer Paradise Ale, Belgian Blonde Ale, Hidden River Witbier, Philadelphia Porter, Festivus Ale, and PBG Grodzikie Polish Wheat Ale along with their classic Dreamin’ Double IPA and Bohemian Blonde Ale.
The best part is that most of these breweries also serve up awesome food, but that may be a post for another day. With all of these local beers made right inside the city, Philadelphia hosts many beer events throughout the year. Most notably is Philly Beer Week between May and June, but other neighborhood events take place. Keep your eyes peeled for them in our This Week in Philly posts.
P.S. If you’re a Jersey neighbor, a brand new brewery is opening in your ‘hood soon too.
