Four years ago our clients Kara and Dan found their home with PHG and have been enjoying Brewerytown for the past 4 years. They have watched as new businesses open rather than close, have connected with neighbors, and best of all they have truly fallen in love with their community. When we reached out for some casual recommendations the texts flooded in with favorites. So here you go- a Brewerytown must-visit list from two local PHG VIPs.
Food and drink
Boozy Mutt 2639 Poplar Street | What’s better than dogs and beer? Not much in our book- combine the two and you have the Boozy Mutt. With quizzo nights (which Dan and Kara attend with their pup Niko), stand-up comedy, breed-specific meet-ups, and even “pitch a friend” nights there’s something for everyone. Note: you must register your dog before visiting- you can purchase a day pass, monthly or spring for a yearly which gets you extra perks.
Otto's Taproom and Grill 1216 N 29th St | If Otto’s had outdoor seating this would be Kara’s fav bar ever, but don’t worry the love affair isn’t totally lost. The food is phenomenal and the friendly staff only adds to the experience, outdoor seating be damned. The seasonal menu changes based on locally sourced meats and fresh veggies and keeps this couple coming back for more. Top it all off with an icy cold Philly beer- they have quite the local selection.
Crime and Punishment 2711 W Girard Ave | You can’t come to Brewerytown and not get an original well-crafted brew. Lots of variety on the draft menu to enjoy in the sunlit bar or take home a growler, and grab a 4 pack of beautifully labeled and even better-tasting beers.
2637brew 2637 W Girard. Ave | Referred to by locals as “the numbers bar” you’ll find good food, cocktails, and if you play your cards right live music. Check out the house-infused cocktails and their excellent happy hour.
Baby’s Kusina + Market Pop-ups and soon-to-be 2816 West Girard Avenue | The whole neighborhood is anxiously awaiting the opening of Baby’s BBQ. While waiting for the proper opening permits they have been sharing a taste of what's to come with various pop-ups about town. Billing themselves as a “modern Filipino kitchen and market” they offer insanely delish flavors all while shining a spotlight on Filipino culture and history. Dan recommends the Pork Belly sammies for every and all occasions.
Caffeine and treats
Over the Moon 2623 W Girard Ave | Harpers Ice Cream 2827 Girard Ave | All Day Hoagies and I Scream for Ice Cream 2809 W Girard Ave | With three ice cream spots to choose from, it’s hard to pick a fav. Fortunately, warm weather continues all the way into fall (and who says you can’t have a sundae in January?). Over The Moon wins first place with Kara, and Harpers Ice Cream is a close second. Both make their ice cream locally right in Brewerytown. What about when you want to combine sweet and savory? Well then you’ll want to pop into All Day Hoagies and I Scream for Ice Cream! Grab a hoagie that dreams are made of and top it off with an icy treat. All three have multiple vegan options for ice cream lovers.
BlkBerry Juice Bar 1213 N 29th St | Blackberry Smoothy shop - A healthy option in the neighborhood is Blkberry Juice Bar and Smoothies. In addition to the…well.. juices and smoothies as the name indicates, they also fire up some topped toasts that go beyond avocado. Bowls, and sandwiches too!
The Monkey & The Elephant 2831 West Girard St | Phillys first not-for-profit coffee shop, serving up top-notch coffee drinks and baked goods all in a super chill atmosphere. M&E’s programs train former foster youth who are aging out of the system. “ Together and guided by mentors, program employees earn income, receive intentional coaching, and are provided with a supportive space to learn and grow before they transition to educational or other job opportunities.” All that and a great cup of joe!
Rival Bros 3145 W Jefferson St Unit C-8 | One of the latest newcomers in the neighborhood. As their reputation proves- they offer a charming atmosphere with some killer coffee. Stock up on your fresh and locally roasted beans while there. Step out of Brewerytown for just a moment and into Lyon, France while you enjoy a croissant from Au Fournil from their pastry selection.
Living Like A local
Horticulture in the Poth Lofts 3145 W. Jefferson St | Before heading to friends for dinner Kara will swing by Horticulture to pick up some flowers to bring along. Woman-owned and focused on being active in the community, they host pop-ups, and Sunday bike rides (kid-friendly!) where you literally stop and smell the flowers. Keep your eye on their Insta for other experiences they create and connect with the neighborhood.
Search and Rescue Dry Goods 1209 N Taney St | When in the mood for window shopping head over to this joint with vintage and upcycled clothing, furniture, and art. Keep an eye on their Instagram for specials and sales.
Brewerytown Pilates 1458 N 30th St | This is a go-to for Kara. A welcoming space that offers group and private mat and reformer classes. They believe “Pilates is for EVERY body. No matter your identity, you are welcome here with open arms.”
PHG Picks
Retro Rewind Vintage and Thrift 2804 W Girard Avenue | Not only do they have racks and racks of some of the best vintage around but they will also help you pull it all together. These peeps have good taste- just take a look at their fun IG. Next time you have a wedding, birthday night, or need something to give you that refresh high walk right into Retro Rewind and you’ll find the fix.
Le Cat Cafe Philly 2713 W. Girard Ave | We talked about the dogs at the Boozy Mutt now we shine the spotlight on the kitties. Book a visit at the cafe and get a complimentary beverage and time with all the adoptable cats. They even host game nights where you can play, put together a puzzle and be completely distracted by the cuteness all around you.
Brewerytown Garden N 27th and Master Streets | No neighborhood is complete without a community garden. There is a CSA you can partake in for spring and in the summer they open
Brewerytown is not just a great place to visit but an even better place to call home. With its mix of historic rowhomes, modern apartments, and everything in between, there's a housing option for every taste and budget. Plus, the proximity to Center City, Fairmount, West Philly and easy access to I-76 means you're never far from the action, whether it's catching a show, exploring museums, or simply soaking up the city vibe. Give us a ring and we’ll set up a tour of your new home asap!
With its current moniker of Philadelphia’s “Little Italy”, Bella Vista prides itself on celebrating the best of Italian history and culture. In recent years, the neighborhood has become even more diverse, with growing Vietnamese and Mexican immigrant populations. The history of Bella Vista is vast, and one of the neighborhood’s modern highlights is the availability of different cuisine options.