Philadelphia, PA Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Essential Breweries Tour
Philadelphia's craft beer scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with a rich array of breweries, each contributing unique flavors to the city's palate. For beer lovers, the city offers a diverse experience that rivals any major beer hub, with a history steeped in brewing tradition and an enthusiastic embrace of innovative practices. Philadelphia's breweries are not just places to find a wide selection of beers; they are cultural landmarks that reflect the city's character and its people's creativity.
The local craft beer guide is a testament to the area's dedication to quality and variety. From the robust and hearty stouts to the crisp and refreshing pilsners, each brewery in Philadelphia brings its own story and approach to the craft. These breweries range from small, eclectic taprooms tucked away in neighborhood corners to larger, state-of-the-art facilities that draw crowds for tours and tastings alike.
Navigating the thriving beer scene in Philadelphia is an adventure in its own right. Visitors and locals alike are treated to a multitude of options, whether they're seeking a classic ale with a side of history or a bold, experimental brew that challenges their taste buds. Each visit promises an opportunity to savor the flavors of the city, connecting beer enthusiasts to the community that pours its heart into every pint.
History of Brewing in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's brewing heritage is deeply rooted, chronicling a journey from its prolific early breweries to the modern craft beer surge. This city's beer story mirrors the complex history and cultural shifts experienced throughout America.
Early Beginnings to Prohibition
In the 19th century, Philadelphia emerged as a brewing powerhouse in the United States. By the time of the 1896 United States Brewers' Association convention in the city, Philadelphia boasted 60 operating breweries. The Henry F. Ortlieb Brewery, established in 1869, grew to substantial prominence, signifying the city's burgeoning beer industry which thrived until the onset of Prohibition in 1920.
Prohibition brought sales and production of alcoholic beverages to a halt. On April 6, 1933, as the nation awaited the repeal of Prohibition, the anticipation in Philadelphia crescendoed. At midnight, the sale of beer resumed, marking a celebratory, if not tumultuous, moment in the city's beer narrative.
The Craft Beer Renaissance
Philadelphia's beer scene lay relatively dormant until a resurgence in the late 20th century. In 1994, Yards Brewing Co. ignited the craft beer renaissance, transitioning from a small operation in a Manayunk garage to a vibrant, modern facility in Northern Liberties. This transition signified a new era for Philadelphia breweries. They crafted a variety of innovative beers, contributing to the diverse and expanding landscape of American craft beer.
The evolution of craft breweries in Philadelphia exemplifies the city’s adaptability and its unwavering dedication to brewing excellence. The thriving scene today offers a distinct blend of historical influence and contemporary creativity, maintaining Philadelphia's standing as a formidable force in America's beer culture.
Overview of Philadelphia's Craft Beer Scene
Philadelphia's craft beer scene is a dynamic and integral part of the city's culture. With a history steeped in brewing and an eye towards innovation, these local establishments are shaping the community and the palettes of beer enthusiasts.
The Growth of Local Breweries
Philadelphia's brewing heritage dates back to colonial times. However, the modern craft beer movement has seen a significant resurgence in recent years. Nearly one hundred craft breweries now call the region home, each contributing a unique flair to the area's beer portfolio. These breweries are characterized by their willingness to experiment and a tendency to not to be confined by traditional brewing rules.
Philadelphia Breweries and Their Impact
The presence of Philadelphia breweries stretches beyond crafting quality beverages. They serve as significant players in the local economy, creating jobs and attracting tourism to the city. As establishments like Imprint Beer Co. in Montgomery County climb to high rankings on beer apps like Untappd, they bring national attention to the city's brewing capabilities.
Craft Breweries as Community Hubs
Craft breweries in Philadelphia have become social centers where people gather, reflecting the city's community-oriented spirit. Places like Love City Brewing, which emerged from a historic manufacturing site, underscore the role of these breweries as key components in revitalization, occupying spaces rich in history and forging them into vibrant spots for social interaction.
Philadelphia's craft beer scene is not only thriving; it is an expanding horizon of flavors and experiences deeply woven into the city's fabric.
Navigating Philadelphia's Craft Beer Locations
With nearly a hundred craft breweries scattered across Philadelphia, enthusiasts can dive into the diverse beer offerings in different neighborhoods, each boasting its own distinctive flavor and atmosphere.
Center City & Eraserhood
In Center City, the heart of Philadelphia, beer lovers can savor a variety of local brews within a bustling urban setting. The area blends historical ambience with modern breweries, creating an eclectic mix of old and new. Visitors can expect to find breweries that combine dining experiences with their craft beer offerings.
Fishtown & Northern Liberties
Fishtown and Northern Liberties are neighborhoods where the craft beer scene thrives amidst a backdrop of artistic expression and innovation. These areas provide a haven for beer aficionados, with places like Yards Brewing Company, a pioneering presence at 500 Spring Garden St, offering a wide array of beers that contribute to their title as "Philadelphia's Brewery."
South Philly & Passyunk Ave
South Philly and Passyunk Avenue showcase a vibrant community where craft breweries are often paired with lively events and a strong local culture. The breweries here are known for their distinct personalities and can range from small, intimate locales to larger, community-focused spaces.
Germantown & West Girard Ave
Heading towards Germantown and West Girard Avenue, visitors will encounter more of Philadelphia's historic charm interwoven with the expanding craft beer scene. Breweries in these neighborhoods often pay homage to the rich local history while serving innovative and regionally inspired brews.
Guide to Philadelphia's Top Breweries
Philadelphia offers a rich tapestry of craft breweries, presenting a compelling blend of tradition, innovation, and exceptional flavors that cater to both casual drinkers and serious connoisseurs.
Yards Brewing Co & Philadelphia Brewing Company
Yards Brewing Co. She is known for her approachable selection that often nods to British-inspired ales. The establishment's flagship beer, Philadelphia Pale Ale, is both bright and hoppy and widely regarded by locals. As a pioneer in sustainability, Yards also emphasizes eco-friendly practices in their brewing.
Philadelphia Brewing Company stands as one of the oldest and largest breweries in Philadelphia. Their Kenzo’ IPA and Walt Wit Belgian-style white ale are standouts, reflecting their commitment to bold flavors and brewing craftsmanship.
Tired Hands & Evil Genius
Tired Hands Brewing Company is a must-visit destination for fans of experimental and hop-forward beers. Their taproom showcases an eclectic array of styles, with frequent new releases that often become instant favorites among the adventurous crowd.
Evil Genius Beer Company, with a penchant for unique names and flavors, offers a diverse lineup that includes everything from IPAs to stouts. "Stacy's Mom Citra IPA" and "Purple Monkey Dishwasher Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter" exemplify their playful yet serious approach to beer.
Dock Street & Victory Brewing
Dock Street Brewery prides itself on being the first craft brewery to open in Philadelphia, laying down a significant marker in the city's brewing history. They consistently serve a variety of styles, including the award-winning Dock Street Bohemian Pilsner.
Victory Brewing Company, located just outside Philadelphia, has garnered a reputation far beyond its local roots. Victory's Golden Monkey Tripel and Prima Pils are just a sample of their widely celebrated offerings that are known for balance and high quality.
Tasting the Variety of Philadelphia's Beers
Philadelphia's craft beer scene boasts a variety of unique and flavorful beers, from the rich ales brewed by the city's mainstays to the inventive IPAs crafted at up-and-coming microbreweries.
Exploring Different Beer Styles
Philadelphia's breweries offer an impressive range of beer styles that cater to diverse palates. Visitors and locals alike can embark on a tasting journey that includes everything from lagers and IPAs to saisons and sours. Traditional ales remain a staple, while breweries also experiment with bolder flavors found in imperial stouts and beyond.
Beer Style Description
Lager Known for its crisp and refreshing taste, suitable for any occasion.
IPA Hop-centric, with a range in bitterness and often featuring fruit or floral notes.
Saison A farmhouse ale that's typically dry, earthy, and mildly spicy.
Stout Rich, full-bodied, and dark, perfect for those who enjoy a robust profile.
Sour Tart and tangy brews that can range from mildly sour to bracingly acetic.
Signature Beers of Philadelphia's Breweries
Philadelphia takes pride in the signature beers that have come to define many of its breweries. Yards Brewing Company is recognized for its ales, notably their classic Philadelphia Pale Ale, which is a crisp and aromatic nod to the city's brewing heritage. Imprint Beer Co. garners attention for its hazy IPAs and creative sours, helping position the city as a modern hub for beer innovation.
Yards Brewing Company: Their Brawler, an English Mild Ale, is both malty and smooth.
Imprint Beer Co.: Known for their Schmoojee series, bursting with fruit flavors and a sour kick.
Boldness in brewing extends to embracing styles like the imperial stout, where breweries push the limits on richness and ABV. A staggering array of tastes awaits, confirming Philadelphia's role as a center of craft brewing creativity.
The Art of Brewing: Behind the Scenes
Craft beer in Philadelphia tells the tale of a city rich in brewing heritage. Here, we shed light on both the scientific precision and the creative spirit that propel the city's thriving beer scene.
Brewing Processes and Ingredients
In Philadelphia's craft breweries, the quality and complexity of the beer begin with meticulous attention to the brewing processes and ingredients. Brewers select malt, the germinated and dried grains that provide the sugars necessary for fermentation, as the backbone of their beer. The choice of malt can affect everything from color to flavor profile. Yeast, another pivotal element, is responsible for the fermentation process. Its selection can dictate the beer's aroma and taste.
Breweries also invest in top-tier brewing gears, including kettles, fermenters, and filtration systems, to ensure consistency and excellence. They approach each batch with a blend of time-honored techniques and modern technology, taking the following steps:
Malting
Mashing
Boiling
Conditioning
Packaging
Creativity in Craft Brewing
Philadelphia's brewers don't just rely on their brewing gears; they also inject creativity to set their beers apart. At the heart of this innovation is the brewers' passion for experimentation. They play with a wide variety of hops, malt types, yeast strains, and sometimes unconventional additives to create unique brews that push the boundaries of traditional styles.
For instance, the advent of the milkshake IPA, partly pioneered by local breweries like Tired Hands Brewing Company, showcases the inventive spirit of Philadelphia’s brewing scene. The inclusion of lactose adds a smooth and creamy texture, distinguishing it from standard IPAs. Brewers in Philadelphia leverage the diverse palette of ingredients and brewing techniques to craft beers that reflect their philosophy and the city's eclectic tastes. Each brewery offers its own interpretation of classic styles, while also venturing into uncharted territories of flavor and experience.
Food and Beer Pairings
Exploring the nuances of food and beer pairings in Philadelphia is a rewarding endeavor for culinary enthusiasts. The area's brewpubs present a range of hearty options alongside their in-house craft beers, while local cuisines provide a canvas for pairing with the city's diverse beer offerings.
Brewpubs and Restaurants
Dock Street Brewery is a staple in Philadelphia's beer scene, known for its pioneering spirit and artisanal beers. They pair their offerings with a selection of wood-fired pizzas, which make the perfect companion to their well-crafted ales. For example, a smoky and malty ale from Dock Street is brilliantly complemented by the slight char and robust flavors of a wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.
Bar Hygge presents a convivial atmosphere where patrons can enjoy comfort food paired with the establishment's own craft brews. Their creative kitchen is apt at putting forward dishes that elevate the characteristics of each brew. Dishes such as savory burgers or a hearty bowl of stew are balanced perfectly with a crisp lager or a hoppy IPA, ensuring a palette for all tastes.
Pairing Local Cuisines with Craft Beers
Craft beer enthusiasts often seek to enhance their dining experience with beers that complement local Philadelphia dishes.
Cheesesteak: This Philadelphia classic goes well with a variety of beers, but a smooth and malty brown ale can handle the hearty steak and cheese.
Soft Pretzels: A crisp pilsner cuts through the doughy texture of pretzels, while introducing a subtle bitterness that pairs well with the saltiness.
Scrapple: For the adventurous, this rich and savory dish is balanced out with a tangy saison or a bitter IPA, which can cut through the fattiness.
In each case, the pairing is about balance and enhancing the flavors of both the food and the beer. The goal is to create a harmonious dining experience that showcases the best of what Philadelphia has to offer in both cuisine and craft beer.
Craft Beer Events and Festivals
Philadelphia boasts an impressive array of craft beer events and festivals, each offering a unique experience for beer enthusiasts. From high-profile national festivals to local tasting events, the city's beer culture is celebrated throughout the year.
Great American Beer Festival
The Great American Beer Festival is a prestigious event in the beer world and, while not based in Philadelphia, it has been influential for local brewers who often participate and compete. This festival is known for showcasing a wide variety of craft beers and attracts breweries from across the country.
Local Beer Tastings and Tours
Local breweries offer an intimate look into the craft beer scene through tastings and tours. These events provide enthusiasts with the opportunity to sample diverse brews and gain insights directly from the brewers.
Notable Philadelphia Breweries Offering Tours:
Goose Island Flagship Brewery
Iron Hill Brewery
Two Locals Brewing Company
Annual Beer Celebrations in Philadelphia
Philadelphia plays host to annual beer celebrations that highlight the robust local brewing scene. These gatherings are festive, featuring craft beers alongside food and music.
Philadelphia All-Star Craft Beer, Wine, and Cocktail Festival - Held at Citizens Bank Park, this is a premier event celebrating regional craft beers.
Philly Beer Week - An iconic multi-day event filled with tastings, dinners, and educational sessions dedicated to craft beer.
Local Beer Festivals - Numerous smaller festivals occur in spring, summer, and fall, spotlighting local and regional brews.
These events create opportunities for both aficionados and casual drinkers to explore the rich tapestry of Philadelphia's craft beer offerings.
The Craft Beer Experience
Philadelphia's craft beer scene harnesses a vibrant tapestry of taprooms, beer gardens, and a network of bars and restaurants, each contributing uniquely to the city's rich beer culture.
Visiting Taprooms and Beer Gardens
When one visits a Philadelphia brewery taproom, they are immersing themselves in the epicenter of brewing innovation. Patrons can expect a rotating selection of seasonal and specialty brews that often can't be found elsewhere. Beer gardens in Philadelphia offer a communal atmosphere, merging the enjoyment of craft beers with the city's historical and cultural backdrop. These spaces encourage social interaction, often hosting events that showcase local music, food, and entertainment alongside the beer offerings.
Yards Brewing Company: A must-visit taproom known for its wide range of ales.
Craft Beer Guide Locations: These curated venues offer an insider's peek into Philly's brewery hotspots.
The Role of Bars and Restaurants in Craft Beer Culture
Bars and restaurants in Philadelphia play an essential role in disseminating craft beer culture. Not only do they provide extensive selections that include local brews, but they also educate patrons about the diverse styles and flavors of beer on tap. These establishments often work in close partnership with local breweries to host beer-pairing dinners, tasting events, and meet-the-brewer nights, which serve to deepen the public's appreciation of Philadelphia's craft beer.
discoverPHL.com's Guides: They align visitors with brewery-infused bars and restaurants.
Local Food Pairings: Philadelphia eateries highlight how craft beer complements and elevates their culinary offerings.
Supporting Local: The Future of Philadelphia's Craft Beer
The Philadelphia craft beer scene is vibrant and shows promising potential for growth with a strong focus on community engagement, sustainability, and innovative practices that promise to expand the local beer culture.
Community Engagement and Sustainability
Local breweries in Philadelphia have become hubs for community engagement, often serving as gathering places that foster neighborhood camaraderie. Two Locals Brewery, a pioneering Black-owned brewery near the University of Pennsylvania, exemplifies community-focused operations, supporting and reflecting local diversity. Moreover, sustainability is not just a buzzword but an integral part of the Philadelphia brewing ethos. Breweries are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, from sourcing ingredients locally to implementing energy-efficient brewing processes, reducing the carbon footprint associated with production and distribution.
Innovations and Expansions in the Beer Scene
Innovation is brewing in the lands of Liberty Bell, with new local breweries such as Carbon Copy Brewery and Humble Parlor Brewing Company signaling a trend towards expansion in the beer scene. Philly Beer Week highlights this growth, featuring new entrants and established players alike, who bring fresh flavors and brewing techniques to the table. Craft beer enthusiasts can expect a continued evolution of the beer landscape in Philadelphia with the embracing of novel trends and the steady opening of new venues dedicated to the art of brewing.
Map of Philadelphia's Craft Beer Trail
Philadelphia's craft beer scene thrives along its Craft Beer Trail, a path celebrating the diversity of artisanal brews found throughout the city. Beer enthusiasts can begin their journey near the Schuylkill River, where they may encounter Fairmount-adjacent establishments, offering a variety of brews that capture the essence of Philadelphia's brewing culture.
Other Half Brewing
Location: 1002 Canal Street
Highlight: Offers Philly-specific creations and guest taps from local brewers.Dock Street South
Proximity to Landmark: Close to Fairmount
Special Note: Known for a rotating selection of local beers and a warm, convivial atmosphere.Imprint Beer Co.
Notable: Prides itself on innovative and experimental craft beers.
For a more comprehensive experience, visitors are encouraged to explore beyond these favorites, soaking in the rich brewing heritage that Philadelphia boasts. Each brewery provides a unique touch, from eco-friendly operations to historic brews that have delighted for generations.
Interactive online maps of the Craft Beer Trail are available for convenience. They guide patrons through the heart of Philadelphia, ensuring they do not miss any brewery worth visiting. The map typically includes filters for types of establishments (such as breweries, brewpubs, and beer gardens) and highlights local favorites along with new and upcoming hotspots. Whether seeking a full-bodied stout by the riverbanks or a hoppy IPA within the urban bustle, Philadelphia's Craft Beer Trail map is an indispensable guide to the city's finest pours.
