With a large Irish population, Philadelphia boasts strong Irish roots and plenty of fantastic traditional Irish pubs to cater to those eager for a great pint.
With almost 15% of the city’s population boasting Irish roots, Philadelphia boasts the third-highest number of Irish Americans in any US city.
Thanks to this, Philadelphia enjoys a strong Irish culture, with plenty of traditional Irish pubs and businesses located all around the city.
So, if you’re looking for some great craft beers on tap, traditional Irish food, and a guaranteed fun night, read on. Today, we’re revealing the top ten best Irish pubs in Philadelphia you need to visit.
10. The Black Sheep Pub & Restaurant – for delicious food and plenty of beer taps
First opened in 1999, The Black Sheep Pub and Restaurant is one of the most popular Irish taverns in Philadelphia.
This old-school Irish pub serves a delicious range of modern comfort food and a fantastic array of beers. So, you need to make sure to visit when you’re in the city.
Address: 247 S 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
9. Bonner’s Irish Pub – a much-loved family-owned Irish pub
Established in 1995 on Rittenhouse Square, Bonner’s Irish Pub is a fantastic family-owned watering hole.
A huge open beer hall, Bonner’s hosts a range of fun events and offers an unrivalled beer selection, making it one of the best-loved spots in the city.
Address: 120 S 23rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
8. Tir na nOg Irish Pub – named after a mythical land from Irish folklore
Named after a mystical land from Irish folklore, Tir na nOg Irish Pub is known for its huge draft beer selection and delicious Irish and American fare.
For happy hour, live sports events, and conversations with friends over a few beers or fun cocktails, this is the place to be.
Address: 1600 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
7. O’Neals Pub – a popular sports bar and Irish pub
O’Neals is a fantastic sports bar and Irish pub known for its lively atmosphere with tons of beers on draft and classic pub grub.
With over 40 years of experience serving the city, O’Neals is popular among locals and visitors alike. So, you can’t miss this famous watering hole during your time in the city.
Address: 611 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States
6. Moriarty’s – over 75 years of experience
Located on Walnut Street, Moriarty’s is a popular Irish pub and restaurant that has been serving the city for over 77 years.
Known for its amazing bar food, varied drinks menu, and lively atmosphere, Moriarty’s is one of the top Irish pubs in the eastern United States.
Address: 1116 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
5. Con Murphy’s Irish Pub – owned by two men from Limerick
Next up on our list of best Irish pubs in Philadelphia is the much-loved Con Murphy’s Irish Pub on Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
A tribute to an old Irish friend from whom the pub takes its name, this spot boasts an authentic feel, a fun and lively atmosphere, and a great pint of Guinness.
Address: 1700 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
4. Finn McCool’s Ale House – for old-country pub fare and delicious drinks
Taking its name from the mythical Irish giant, who is credited with creating the Giant’s Causeway, Finn McCool’s Ale House is a great place for a proper Irish pint in Philadelphia.
With a bright red exterior, this is one of the most striking buildings in Midtown Village Philadelphia. You can expect top-class drinks and a fantastic food menu if you choose to visit.
Address: 118 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
3. Fadó Irish Pub – for an authentic Irish pub feel
Taking over most of 15th Street between Locust Street and Latimer Street, Fadó Irish Pub is a popular destination for drinks, comfy seating, and live DJ sets.
They also offer a great range of classic pub food, including Irish stew, potato mash, and sausage rolls. Thus, making this a great place to soak up many aspects of Ireland’s pub culture.
Address: 1500 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19102, United States
2. Fergie’s Pub – for great food, drinks, and fun events
Located on Sansom Street, Fergie’s Pub is known for its brilliant array of modern comfort food and its reputation as a top-class drinking spot.
With various events to keep visitors entertained, there are plenty of reasons to visit this amazing Irish pub.
Address: 1214 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
1. McGillin’s Olde Ale House – one of the best Irish pubs in Philadelphia
Topping our list of Irish pubs in Philadelphia is McGillin’s Olde Ale House on Drury Street. A historic pub with beer taps that have been flowing since the mid-19th-century, this spot oozes with tradition.
Today, it proves popular for its delicious food and drinks offerings that keep diners and drinkers coming back time and time again.
Address: 1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Notable mentions
The Plough and the Stars: A warm and cosy pub serving traditional Irish food and drinks, don’t miss the Plough and the Stars.
Paddy Whacks Irish Sports Pub: Located on South Street, Paddy Whacks has been a popular Philadelphia establishment since 2004. A laid-back neighbourhood spot with a great food menu and fun events.
Murph’s Bar: Known as a ‘comfortable place to be’, you can’t go wrong with a few pints at Murph’s Bar.
Hilltown Tavern: Located on the historic Roxborough Avenue, Hilltown Tavern is a modern Irish American gastropub serving delicious food and great drinks.
FAQs about the best Irish pubs in Philadelphia
What is the best Irish pub in Philly?
McGillin’s Olde Ale House is regarded among the best Irish pubs in Philadelphia.
How many Irish people live in Philadelphia?
Almost 15% of Philadelphia’s population claims Irish heritage.
How many Irish pubs are there in Philadelphia?
We aren’t sure of the exact numbers, but you can find Irish pubs on almost every street in Philadelphia!