Staff Pics: Our Favorite Breweries in Philly

October 26, 2022

With more than 90 craft breweries, Philly’s beer scene has exploded in the last few years. Whether you like farmhouse ales or prefer a chocolate truffle stout, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the City of Brotherly Love. Keep on reading to check out some of staff’s favorite breweries in the city.

Love City Brewing

Photo: Love City Brewing

Add this to your bucket list if you’re looking for an authentic neighborhood brewery. Love City Brewing is a taproom and beer garden in Callowhill. This family-owned and operated brewery has just about every style of beer imaginable—from pilsners to sour ales, Love City appeals to the masses with a focus on quality and taste. The taproom is spacious, located in an old warehouse with exposed brick walls and a cozy industrial feel.

Other than beer, Love City Brewing offers wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Unlike many breweries that are ‘bring your own food’, Love City has a food truck on-site every day of the week. Viva Pizza serves up garlic knots, wings, pizza, and burgers, as well as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. A true staple in the community, Love City brewing works with local organizations and non-profits to give back and often hosts pop-up events and live musical performances. Long story short, there’s always something going on at Love City—especially in the summertime with the recent addition of their beer garden.

Love City Brewing is open 7 days a week with select hours. Follow them on Instagram to check out their upcoming events and taproom menu.

Independence Beer Garden

Photo: Independence Beer Garden

Located just minutes from the Liberty Bell and National Historic Park, the Independence Beer Garden is a 20,000-square-foot garden serving more than 40 regional and domestic American draft beers. There are multiple bars and seating areas to choose from, all serving draft beer, spiked seltzers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Hanging out with a large group? Grab a pitcher to share, or enjoy a friendly competition of cornhole. Being that Independence Beer Garden is so large, it truly is the perfect place to visit whether it’s a special occasion or just another Friday night out. If you’re hungry, there are plenty of food options to choose from such as hummus, chicken wings, fried pickles, and a rotating list of weekly specials.

Independence Beer Garden is open Wednesday through Saturday with select hours. Happy hour is available 3:00-7:00pm with $5 beers, $6 wine, and $6 cocktail specials. View hours, draft lists, and food menus here.

SlyFox Brewing Company

Photo: SlyFox Phoenixville

Since 1995, SlyFox Brewing Company has been serving up ice-cold pints in Pottstown Pennsylvania. As one of the oldest breweries in the Delaware Valley, SlyFox has won multiple awards for its classic brews like the Hells Golden Lager and Pikeland Pils.  

Depending on the location you visit, you can expect to see more than a dozen rotating tap lines ranging from hazy IPAs to Irish-style stouts. Every Thursday, the brewery has live music from 6:00pm-9:00pm, and every week, there are new food specials. Speaking of food, each SlyFox location is a full-scale restaurant serving apps, salads, burgers, and pizza. Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 4:00-6:00pm at select locations (enjoy $2 off pints at Phoenixville). Year-round, SlyFox is home to many beloved events like music festivals, outdoor sports competitions, and beer festivals.

SlyFox Brewing Company has 6 locations throughout Pennsylvania. Check out the current beers on tap and plan your visit today by visiting their website.

Explore More with Spruce Street Commons

Looking for more things to do in the city? Check out our staff picks for our favorite restaurants and eateries in Philly. If you check out any of our recommendations, be sure to tag us on Instagram for a chance to be featured on our page.