PUBS OF THE USA – EAST COAST

Including New York City,Philadelphia,Washington, Boston and New England.

AS FROM DECEMBER 2018 THERE WILL BE NO MORE PUBS ADDED TO THIS PAGE

For location enter full address and zip code into the link below

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&tab=wl

NEW YORK CITY

Whilst a little slow to begin with, New York has caught on to the home brew beer revolution, but with mixed results. Some places have closed, but others have done well. The main problem seems to be surviving out the first few years, after style-conscious New Yorkers go on to the next trendy thing. Also New York's regular bar scene can change pretty fast , mainly due to New York's high rents.

That said, there are some good home brew pubs in New York, as well as some good regular bars which have been around for years.

I visited these places in February 2000. I like to thank my sister for letting me use her apartment during my visit, thus saving a fortune on hotel bills and giving me more drinking money!

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Blind Tiger, 281 Bleecker Street, NY 10014

Beers- Various beers from US micros

Telephone- 212-675- 3848

Web site   http://blindtigeralehouse.com

Friendly lively pub in Greenwich village with a good choice of beers. US micros featured strongly on the draughts. Dimly-lit place, which makes it more intimate atmosphere. Pub has moved to new address above. Since this reveiew.

John 7.5/10 visit Feb 2000

This pub has moved since my last visit. Good location in the village. The beer range is better than I remember, as well as the atmosphere. Small pub with lots of wood, no waiter service like an English pub. Food is just snacks, but the kitchen is open until 0200 hours.  There are over 30 beers on draft, including beers from the West Coast and 2 beers on cask. Bottled beers are on the blackboard. Great pub.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

 

_________________________________________________________________________

Chumleys, 86 Bedford Street, at Barrow NY 10014

Beers- US micros mainly on draught

Telephone-212-675-4449

This place is not easy to find; there is no sign. Just go through the brown door number 86. Once inside, the bar goes back a fair way. The place used to be a speakeasy, which explains the original fun entrance. Lines of draught beers from US micros, sawdust on the floor and a friendly pub dog all add to the atmosphere. Come early, it can get crowded.

John 9/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

d.b.a. 41 First Avenue, between 2nd/3rd Street, NY 10003

Beers- US micros beers and European Beers

Telephone-212-475-5097

Web site  www.drinkinggoodstuff

A bar with beers from US micros on draught; they will do a sampler for you. Also bottled beers from Belgium and UK. A long narrow bar which goes back a fair way. Laid back atmosphere with quiet background music in a dimly-lit bar.

John 7.5/10 visit Feb 2000

Not much to look at on the outside. While the decor inside is modern, dark with a few candles on the tables. Above the bar on the blackboard is an amazing list of beers from Belgium, the UK and Germany as well as US micros. There are 16 beers on draft mainly overseas beers plus 2 cask beers that are $6. The Victory Hop wallop was $5 during happy hour, not bad for New York. Outside drinking/smoking area at the back. Get a front seat by the window and watch New York life go by!

 

John 8/10 April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________

McSorleys Old Ale House, 15 East 7th Street, between 2nd/3rd Avenue, NY 10003.

Beers- Light and Dark Beer

Telephone-212-473-9148

Web site  www.mcsorleysnewyork.com

 

 


Life's very simple at McSorley's, they only have the light and dark beer and they serve you two beers of your choice. It's probably the most famous bar in New York, because it's the oldest bar in the city. Nothing seems to changed much over the years, including the old photos, curtains, aproned waiters and sawdust on the floor. Great place with a lot of character and atmosphere, something money can't buy! Come early, especially at the weekend.

John 9.5 visit Feb 2000

Good to see nothing has changed since my last visit including the sawdust and the old photos around the walls. The beers are $4.50; sandwiches are $3, cheese and crackers for $2 and $3. Great atmosphere, visit early.

 

John 10/10 visit April 2008

This has the air of a very traditional pub. Wood interior, old bar and sawdust on the floors. Full of memorabilia and dust!

Stuart 9/10 visit Sept 1990

_________________________________________________________________________

Peculier Pub, 145 Bleecker Street, at Thompson, NY 10012

Beers- at least 300 beers on the menu

Telephone-212-353-1327

Web site  www.peculierpub.com/index1.html

Pub with best choice of beers in New York City. Dimly-lit with a little bit of a college bar feel to it. Beware-it will take you a while to read through the beer menu! Ask what they have on draft as well. There's bound to be a beer you haven't tasted. Waitress was the only person in New York who seemed to have trouble with my English accent; in the end I had to point at the menu!

John 9/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

The Slaughtered Lamb, 182 West 4th Street, between 6th/ 7th Avenue, NY 10014

Beers- US micros and European Beers

Telephone-212-627-5262

Web site www.slaughteredlambpub.com

For movies fluffs, The Slaughtered Lamb was the pub on the moors in 'An America Werewolf in London', which is why there is a sign saying 'werewolves round the back'. Small but intimate, while not a large range of beers there are some which you don't find elsewhere. Albeit at a price!

John 7.5/10 visit Feb 2000

Still much the same since my last visit. The beer taps are the usual suspects for New York; Guinness, Bass, Brooklyn, Samuel Adams etc. Bottled beers are lined up behind the bar. Good section of bar towels  from around the world hanging from the ceiling. Just about enough room to move in the bathroom!!

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

Small pub on the corner of the block. This was the original location of the Peculiar pub but it had moved on. Good atmosphere.

Stuart 7/10 visit Sept 1990

_________________________________________________________________________

White Horse Tavern, 567 Hudson, at 11th West Street, NY 10014

Beers-House beer and 3 or 4 other beers on draught

Telephone-212-243-9260

While the White Horse doesn't have great range of beers, it's a nice old historic place with a lot of charm and character. Its claim to fame is poet Dylan Thomas having his last drink here (19 straight whiskeys) before he died at his apartment, age 39.

John 8/10 visit Feb 2000 

Like Mcsorleys this New York pub sticks with a unchanged décor.  Of the 8 drafts, only Red Hook, Sierra Nevada and Anchor Stream are interesting. Never mind, this pub is like Mcsorleys-it is all about atmosphere and there is lots of it here! There are rooms off the main bar. Good after-work crowd.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________

CHELSEA/ GRAMERCY

Heartland Brewery, 35 Union Square West, NY 10003

Beers- Brew Pub

Telephone-212-645-3400

Website-  www.heartlandbrewery.com

A large brew pub with wood panelling and bright lighting. Place reminds me a little of some brew pubs on the west coast. Separate areas for drinking and eating. A free beer magazine is near the front door for local beer information.

John 8/10 visit Feb 2000

This is the only brewpub left from my 2000 visit. This brew pub has been opening branches all over New York ( see website). Pub is on two levels and busy for a Thursday night. Beer menu is the same as the Empire State branch, but the food menu is different.  An lively place with a good atmosphere. Good waiter service.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________

 

Chelsea Brewing Company, Chelsea Pier 59, New York City, NY 10011.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone-212-336-6440

Web site-  www.chelseabrewingco.com/

 

A brewpub which is not easy to find; and a little out the way. Even the pub web site does not give a location! On a pier overlooking the river and next door to a golf club!! Half the pub is for eating and half for drinking, with the drinking area winning hands down!! The beer, the bar service and prices were reasonable. I like to thank Gary, an American who supports Barnet FC, for a good evening and getting me on the subway to Penn station for my late train to Philadelphia. Cheers mate.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

 

 

_________________________________________________________________________

Pete's Tavern, 129 East 18th Street, at Irving Place, NY 10003

Beers- 2 or 3 on draught

Telephone-212-473-7676

Web site   http://geocities.com/Eureka/Concourse/9261/petestavern.index.html

Nice old-fashion neighbourhood bar which has been around since 1864. Cosy traditional feel inside, with various bits of bric-a-brac around the place. While food is popular here; there are a few interesting beers on draught.

John 7.5/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

-

MIDTOWN

 

Heartland Brewery, Empire State Building, 350 5th Avenue @ 34th Street, New York City, NY 10018.

 

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone-212-563-3433

Web site

 

Make sure you visit this place after you have visited the Empire State building. A great stress release after some of the pointless queues of the Empire State Building- it takes 55 minutes to get to the top.  A Brewpub which is on two floors. The ground floor area has bar and eating areas. Beers are above average, but nothing special. There are interesting lights on the ceiling. Good original beer posters and trays on the wall, most of which looks like pre-prohibition.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_____________________________________________________________________________

Tap Room, 3 West 18th Street, at 5th Avenue,

Beers- Brew Pub

Telephone-212-517-2739

Brew pub which specialises in German style lager beer. Lots of wood panelling and bright lights, but not a great deal of character here. There's something missing about this place, but I can't put my finger on it!

John 7/10 visit Feb 2000

No longer brewing.

_________________________________________________________________________

Café Centro Beer Bar, 200 Park avenue, At 45th Street, NY10166

Beers- US micros and European Beers

Telephone-212-818-1333

As you walk into this up-market restaurant, a beer bar with a good choice of beers is the last thing you'd expect, but if you turn to the right there is one. Dimly-lit and a little quiet when visited. The place has a great beer list with a lot to enjoy and choose from.

John 7/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

Commonwealth Brewery, Rockafella Plaza at West 48th Street, between 5th / 6th Avenue

Beers- Brew Pub

Telephone-212-977-2269

Home brew pub close to the Rockafella centre. Very open planned and with lots of windows to look at the outside world. The best pint of my trip was ESB here. Wonderful beer which I strongly recommend.

John 8.5/10 visit Feb 2000

No longer brewing

_________________________________________________________________________

Ginger Man, 11 East 36th Street, NY 10016

Beers- US micros and European Beers

Telephone-212-532-3740

Web site  www.gingerman-ny.com

Dimly-lit bar with lots of wood panelling as well as mirrors. Lots of different beers on draught and some good European beers in bottles. Friendly place, with people just about to enjoy their Friday evening.

John 8/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

Maggies Place, 21 East 47th Street, at Maidson NY 10017.

Beers- US micros and European Beers

Telephone- 212-753-5757

Web site www.maggiesnyc.com

Small narrow bar, dimly-lit with wood panelling and brewery mirrors. I must admit I can't remember too much else about this place!

John 6.5/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

Manchester, 920 Avenue, Between 48th/ 49th Street, NY 10017

Beers- US and European Beers

Telephone-212-223-7484

Web site  www.manchesterpubnyc.com

Named after England's third city, tries to be a cross between an English pub and an American bar. It doesn't just have a good choice of English beers, it also has a good range of US micros and European beers too. Place is a little small and can get crowded easily, but a good lively place, worth seeking out.

John 8.5/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

Times Square Brewery, 160 West 42nd Street, NY10036

Beers- Brew Pub

Telephone-212-398-1234

A pub which is not easily missed. It has a model of Concorde above the building. Modern deco inside with windows to look out on Times Square. Restaurant upstairs and snacks in the bar. Beers were very average.

John 7/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

Typhoon, 22 East 54th Street, between 5th Street and Maidson, NY 10022

Beers- Home Brew Pub

Telephone 212-754-9006

Website-www.typhoonbrew.com/typhoon

Nice new brew pub with a cosy atmosphere and beers with a lot of character. Upstairs is a good Thai restaurant which does some nice food.

John 8/10 visit Feb 2000

No longer brewing

_________________________________________________________________________

UPPER EAST SIDE

Carnegie Hill, 1600 Third Avenue, at 90th Street, NY 10028

Beers- Brew Pub

Telephone-TBA

Brew pub on the upper East Side, which was empty when visited so a little hard to judge the atmosphere; barman was helpful about what beers to drink. Décor was modern and with bright strip lighting.

John 7.5/10 visit Feb 2000

No longer brewing

________________________________________________________________________-

Kinsale Tavern, 1672 Third Avenue, between 93rd/ 94th Street, NY 10028

Beers- US micros, Irish and European beers

Telephone-212-348-4370

Web site  www.kinsale.com

Irish pub close to the Carnegie Hill brew pub, which seems to have a loyal following. Most Irish pubs have just Guinness or Murphy's, but this pub has a great choice of beers. Beer menu listed in beers styles like Porters, Ales, etc. English soccer on the TV, with the sound turned down.

John 8/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

Ruby's Tap House, 1754 Second Avenue, At 92nd Street, NY 10128

Beers-US micros and European beers

Telephone-212-987-8306

Friendly neighbourhood bar, with a great choice of beers on draught. There is a small dining room at the back which does snacks.

John 7.5/10 visit Feb 2000

_________________________________________________________________________

BROOKLYN

Barcade, 388 Union Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211.

 

Beers- US micros

Telephone-718-302-6464

Web site-  www.barcadebrooklyn.com/

 

If you like arcade games and good beer this is the place for you. A large warehouse/garage building, with a concrete floor. Alongside two walls are arcade games; the highest scores are above the machines. There are 24 beers on draft with one handpump on the bar for cask. The beer range is mainly New England micros. Good to see the strength of the beers is listed. Happy hour-the beers are $4 a pint. Different place.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

______________________________________________________________________________________________      

 

Spuyten Devil, 359 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211.

 

Beers- US micros

Telephone-718-963-4140

Web site-  www.spuytenduyvilnyc.com

 

When you first walk into this place it looks basic, but if you look closely there is some interesting bric-a-brac about the pub, including a old radio set, golf clubs, a pitchfork and old tins. The beer menu is strong on Belgian bottled beers. There are 6 local beers on drafts including Oakham Delirium. Strong beers are sold by the half pint. Beer patio at the back is well used on this hot day. There are a few light snacks for food. Roots reggae is the background music.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Wells Ales and Lagers, 303 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211.

 

Beers- US micros

Telephone-718-963-3435

 

Claims to have 100 crafts beers, but there are not so many on the beer menu! However they have bottled beers on display behind the bar, which are not on the beer menu.  Also had 6 ciders with 3 from the US, 2 from France and 1 from the UK. Southern Tier IPA, Lakewood, New York at $2 for a half pint was good. I can’t see any spirits so the pub lives up to its name!. Décor is exposed with lots of wood. Back patio for smokers, well used on today’s hot day. Nice laid back friendly atmosphere. Food menu is mainly snacks.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Levee, 212 Berry Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211.

 

Beers- US micros

Telephone- 718-218-8787

Web site-  www.theleveenyc.com/

 

A regular neighbourhood bar with only 5 beers on draft, including Brooklyn, but no bottled beers on display. The décor is exposed brick and wood. The pub opens at noon and happy hour is 1700 to 2000 hours with $1 off the 5 drafts. Beer memorabilia is from the bigger brewers like Miller High Life, which is ‘the Champagne of beers’!!  Sign above the door on the way says ‘Next time bring your wife’!

 

John 6/10 visit April 2008 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Radegast Hall, 113 North 3rd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211.

 

Beers- German and Belgian beers

Telephone- 718-963-3973

Web site  www.radegasthall.com/

 

I must admit I like this place. Whilst not in Munich it is a good attempt at a German beer hall. No German band, but maybe I was lucky! One half of the pub, on the bar side, has the German décor of wooden floor, beams and white ceiling. The other side is exposed bricks, concrete floor and wooden benches. Ruined by the Brooklyn bars on the windows! There are 13 lagers on draft mainly German but with 3 Czech and 1 Austrian lagers as well. The bottled beer menu is 20 German and 20 Belgian beers. Waiting staff are in Bavarian dress, but it is not over the top. Manhattan prices!

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

___________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Mugs Ale House, 125 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211.

 

Beers- US micros

Telephone- 718- 384-8494

Web Site-  www.mugsalehouse.com/home.html

 

Bedford Avenue is a lively road at the night, with lots of eating and drinking places. This pub managers to kept its pubby atmosphere and regular bar feel with most people enjoying a pint of good craft beer. Décor is white tiled floor, polished wood and various bits of beer memorabilia on the walls. Draft beers are all in 20oz glass (imperial pint) and are all $5 including the 2 casks Blue Moon and Chelsea Imperial stout. Beer list includes new draft beers and upcoming draft beers. Good pub with a good atmosphere.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

 

______________________________________________________________

Waterfront Ale House, 155 Atlantic Avenue, Henry/ Clinton, NY 11201

Beers- US micros and European Beers

Telephone-718-522-3794

Web site  www.waterfrontalehouse.com

Whilst not on the water front, this place is well worth the trip out to Brooklyn for us serious beer hunters! Friendly regulars who enjoy the great choice on offer, including some interesting European beers which I have not seen outside their own countries. Picture of Michael Jackson (the beer writer- of course ) in the pub.

John 8.5/10 visit Feb 2000

Now with a pub in Manhattan, 540 2nd Avenue, corner of 30th Street. See web site.

BOSTON and NEW ENGLAND

Boston is one of the most historic cities in North America. Great attractions like the harbour, Boston Common, Beacon Hill and the freedom trail all make this a good tourists’ town. Boston is a good beer drinking town thanks mainly to the Irish influence. There are two local breweries-Samuel Adams and Harpoon- which feature in most Boston pubs. As well as having 3 home brew pubs there are some good local drinking places. Visited April 2007.

 

BACK BAY

 

Parish café, 361 Boylston Street, MA 02116.

Beers- US micros and overseas beers on draught

Telephone-617-247-4777

 

Is it a restaurant or a bar? Hard to draw a line here. You can certain drink at the bar, but most people seem to have food at the table. A good range of beers including a few Belgian, but you never know by just walking in. Also 5 malt whiskies are behind the bar.

 

John 5/10 visit April 2007

___________________________________________________________________________________

 

Bukowski’s Tavern, 50 Dalton Street, MA 02115.

Beers- 99 bottled beers

Telephone-617-437-9999

 

Pub close to the Hynes Convention Centre. The pub seems to be the only building on the road, apart from the parking lot. Home of the dead authors club! Long narrow pub with basic décor and traditional feel. 99 bottles of beer on the wall!  Beer menu has some great bottled beers from Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic. All beers on the menu are listed and explain in their beer style. A pub for us serious beer drinkers!

 

John 8/10 visit April 2007

__________________________________________________________________________________________

BEACON HILL

 

Sevens, 77 Charles Street, MA 02114

Beers- US Micros and Overseas beer on draught

Telephone-617-523-9074

 

Local’s pub in historic Beacon Hill. Small pub that was crowded at the time of my visit.  While no mainstream beers, had the usual Boston beers Harpoon and Sam Adams on draught, as well as some overseas beers on draught. All beers are on a wall opposite the bar, a good policy. One local thought Newcastle Brown Ale was a good drink!

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Bull and Finch, 84 Beacon Street, MA 02114.

Beers- US beers on draught

Telephone-617-227-9605

Web site  www.cheersboston.com

 

If you didn’t know, the Bull and Finch was the inspiration behind Cheers. The place looks nothing like the TV set and is small. More interested in selling food today. Norman and Cliff would have moved on a long time ago. Be prepared to be let down. Tourist trap.

 

John 3/10 visit April 2007

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DOWNTOWN

 

Boston Beer Works ( Downtown ), 112 Canal Street, MA02114.

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone-617-896-BEER

Web site  www.beerworks.net

 

A smaller version of the pub at Fenway Park, but a good pub in its own right. Like its bigger brother at Fenway the pub does a wide range of home brew beers, but they are different beers. Try the sample tray again!  Also like Fenway they have a cask beer, good waiter service, a real cider and some good beer. Save the trip out of town!

 

John 9/10 visit April 2007

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Bell in Hand Tavern, 45 Union Street, MA 02108.

Beers- US beers on draught

Telephone- 617-227-2098

 

This pub is America’s oldest tavern, established in 1795. Lots of history outside, but inside is modern with windows looking out on the street and TVs all around the pub. Bet it didn’t look like this in 1795! Range of beers were domestic, micros and international. A pub with a history, but hard to tell from the inside!

 

John 4/10 visit April 2007

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Tap, 19 Union Street, MA 02108

Beers- US micro beers on draught

Telephone-617-367-0033

 

Pub in historic Union Street. Interesting range of beers is the one saving grace of this pub. At the time of my visit-1300- hours I was the only one in here! Tables are lined up for food.

 

John 5/10 visit April 2007

______________________________________________________________________________________________

FENWAY

Boston Beer Works, 61 Brookline Avenue, MA 02215

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone-617-536-2337

Web site  www.beerworks.net

 

Get the T, Boston’s good Sudway system out to Kenmore. You will see Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox. The Boston Beer Works is opposite. A home brew pub, you can see the brewery on the right side as you walk in. A massive range of home brew beers on my visit; it was 13 including 1 cask beer. They will do a sample tray of 4 beers for you. As you would expect, the pub has lots of sport screens. The pub is busy when the Red Sox are at home. They had a real cider as well. The beers were excellent. Good service. Sample tray was $5.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2007

 

Cornwall’s, 510 Commonwealth Avenue, MA 02215.

Beers – US micros and English beers on draught

Telephone- 617-876-9180

Web Site www.cornwalls.com

 

Boston’s English pub which is close to Kenmore T station. As usual it’s an American bar trying to be an English pub. Interesting beer memorabilia around the walls. Some handpumps are on the wall behind the bar! Shame they are not on the bar! Mainly English beers on draught including Fullers London Pride and ESB, but I tired the Brooklyn Lager.

 

John 6/10 visit April 2007

___________________________________________________________________________________________

THEATRE DISTRICT

 

Jacobs Wirth, 31 Stuart Street, MA 02116.

Beers- US micros and overseas beers on draught

Telephone 617-338-8586

Web site  www.jacobswirth.com

 

One of the oldest pubs in Boston, in the Theatre district. Lots of wood panelling around the pub, which looks like it’s been there for a while. Over 12 beers on draught, including two overseas beers. Beer memorabilia around the walls, as well as baseball memorabilia. Maybe a little to much space taken by dining.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Rock Bottom, 115 Stuart Street, MA 02116

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone-617- 523-6467

Web Site www.rockbottom.com

 

A national brew chain with a lot of pubs all over the USA. Different from some of the others I have visited in the chain. Half the pub is taken up by food, but tonight everyone is in the drinking area. Well done Boston drinkers! One of the beers on the sample tray was cask, which is good for a chain pub. In the Theatre district which makes for a laid back atmosphere. Sample tray was $7.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2007

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

SEAPORT

 

Harpoon Brewery, 306 Northern Avenue, MA 02210

Beers-Beers brewed at brewery

Telephone- 1-888-HARPOON

Web Site www.harpoonbrewery.com

 

Not easy to find. Don’t panic when Northern Avenue becomes Seaport Boulevard-carry on walking!  Times are on brewery web site; you just need to turn up. No walk around the brewery, just a talk about the beers they make, including a cask one. Then we sample the beers. Which, lets face it, is what we are all here for!! Good atmosphere with like-minded people. Last out the sample room bar, thanks to Steve and Gary behind the bar for giving me a few extra beers!! Well worth the trip out of town, if you are visiting Boston. Been on a few brewery trips, but this was one of the most enjoyable.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2007

 

 Did not get around to.

 

Boston Beer Co.30 Germania Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130. Samual Adams brewey trip. For info visit www.samadams.com

Doyles, 3484 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________-

CAMBRIDGE

Town across the Charles River. Where the main business is education.

 

John Harvard’s Brew House, 33 Dunster Street, MA 02138

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone-617-868-3585

Web Site www.johnharvards.com

 

A home brew pub in Cambridge, close to Harvard Square station. Half the pub is taken by food, but there is still plenty of room to drink in. Interesting stained glass windows, I do not know what the figures are! Brewing vessels can be seen behind the bar. Service on the slow side. So upmarket the toilets are washrooms!

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

 

Shays, 58 John F Kennedy Street,MA 02138

Beers- Small choice of non-mainstram draught beers.

Telephone-617-864-9161

 

Nice hideaway pub which is small and cosy. Not a great selection choice of beers on draught, but no mainstream American beers. Local beers from Sam Adams and Harpoon plus Sierra Nevada. Overseas section had Boddington and Newcastle Brown Ale, but coming from England I saw this as a minus point! Good beer memorabilia. Outside drinking area at the front for the summer. Music was a little strange, but we are in a student area! Nice unpretentious pub.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Cambridge Brewing, One Kendall Square #100, MA02139.

Beers-Home brew pub

Telephone-617-494-1994

Web site www.cambrew.com

 

Cambridge brew pub which is in a hard to find shopping centre. It is on Broadway, between Hampshire and Portland.  Décor is modern with a conservatory-like feel. Small drinking area with yuppies standing or sitting at the bar, making it hard to get through to be served. This said, the Charles River Porter was excellent. Brewery celebrating its 18th year in May 20007.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

________________________________________________________________________________________________

CAPE COD

Cape Cod has some wonderful  unspoilt beaches and countryside.

 

Offshore Ale Company, 30 Kennebec Avenue, Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard,MA02557.

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone-508-693-2625

Web Site www.offshoreale.com

 

Luckily for me my ferry arrives at Bluff Oaks, where this wonderful home brew pub is located. Also the town is one of the few wet places on Martha’s Vineyard. The pub is open all year, unlike a lot of places nearby. Reasonably crowded for the off-season, creating a cosy atmosphere. While most brew pubs go for modern décor this one has gone for traditional, with lots of wood around the pub. It also has old photos on the wall and an old bike and rowing boat hanging from the ceiling. The brewing vessels are above the open kitchen. No sample tray, but the barman will pour you a small sample. Great beer including a Doublehopped cask IPA. Great service, great beer in a great pub: what more can you ask for? Best pub on my visit to New England. Almost missed the ferry back!!

 

John 10/10 visit April 2007

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

British Beer Company, 412 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601.

Beers- English and US draught beers

Telephone 508-771-1776

Web Site www.britishbeer.com

 

There are a few branches of this pub in the Cape Cod area. The beer menu features 4 Fullers beers plus a few international beers, as well as domestic beers. Food menu has fish and chips and bangers and mash. The concept of the pub is explained on the beer menu claiming their staff have worked in the UK to understand a British pub. So why is the beer served too cold? Why are there no local beer? Why is there no where to sit and drink? Why is there waitress service? The Cape Cod tourists might find it amusing, but it is not the real thing!

 

John 5/10 visit April 2007

______________________________________________________________________________________________

MAINE

Wonderful unspoilt state. Portland is a friendly town and Mount Desert Island has some great views.

 

PORTLAND

 

Shipyard Brewing Company, 86 Newbury Street, ME 04101.

Beers- Brewery visit

Telephone- 1-800- BREW-ALE

Web Site www.Shipyard.com

 

Brewery is on the east side of the downtown area across Franklin Avenue. Good brewery trip which starts at the top and works its way down to the sample room. Lots of good beer drunk with some good people. I visited this brewery on 21 April 2007. Special thanks to Meg, Scott, Corrie and Eric for showing me a few more Portland pubs!!! Before I lost them!!! Trips start at the brewery shop. See web site for details.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2007

 

Brain Boru, 57 Centre Street, ME 04101

Beers- US draught beers and Guinness -

Telephone-207-780-1506

 

Irish pub in the centre of town, which is on two floors. Lively place with a outdoor drinking area. Place crowded, but with friendly bar staff. Guinness was in good shape!

 

John 6/10 visit April 2007

 

3 Dollar Dewey’s, 241 Commerical Street, ME04101

Beers- US micros and overseas beers on draught.

Telephone- 207- 772-3310

Web site www.3dollardeweys.com

 

Great pub in the historic port area. A great range of beers from US micros including Shipyard and local Maine beers. They also had Bass and Boddingtons but I didn’t come to the USA to drink that!!! Barebrick walls, mirrors and various bits of beer memorabilia around the pub. Good beer and good company from the Shipyard Brewery trip.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2007

 

Gritty Mcduff’s Brew Pub, 396 Fore Street, ME04101.

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone-207-772-2739

Web site www.grittys.com

 

Portland’s first brewpub since prohibition, which started up in 1988. Still the only brew pub in the downtown area. Busy Saturday night at the time of my visit. Bar is on two sides and there is lots of room for drinking. Sadly no cask beers, but the stout and the porter were good.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Great Lost Bear,540 Forest Avenue, ME 04101.

Beers- 65 beers on draught mainly New England micros.

Telephone-207-772-0300

Web site www.greatlostbear.com

 

Portland premier beer pub. You need to get a cab to this pub, but it is well worth the effort for the choice of beers alone. Over 60 beers on draught as well as 2 on cask, mainly supporting local Maine and New England breweries. Dimly lit pub, with lots of alcoves and candles on the table. Bank notes are above the bar. Beer memorabilia includes empty beer cans! Part of the pub is for dancing but drinking rules here. A Portland institution.

The reason I lost the people I met at the Shipyard brewery was that I come here by myself and was to meet up later at Brain Boru with them, but was enjoying myself so much here I lost all sense of time! If you are reading this I am terrible sorry.

 

John 10/10 visit April 2007

___________________________________________________________________________________________

MOUNT DESERT ISLAND

Visited during the off-season.  There were not too many places open.

 

Jack Russell Brewpub, 102 Eden Street, Route 3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609.

Beers Home Brew Pub.

Telephone-207-288-5214

Web site  www.bhmaine.com

 

Pub is about 2 miles outside Bar Harbor on route 3. Brew pub the Maine Coast Brewery is at the back. It says steakhouse and brewery and there is a lot of steak on the menu. Cosy Sunday atmosphere with people mainly eating. Beers including a good ale, IPA and stout. One of the few places open before the start of the season. Hours in April were 1600 to 2100 hours.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mckays, 231 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Beers-Rare strong English bottled beers.

Telephone 207-288-2002

Web site  www.mckayspublichouse.com

 

Open during my visit in the off season from 16.30 hours onwards. Plus points were to see a house as a pub and they had a cask beer at the bar and some strong English bottled ales on the menu including Harveys Imperial Stout and Lees Moonraker which is hard to find in the UK. Minus point is drinking only at the bar and the tables are only for eating.

 

John 6/10 visit April 2007

Did not get around to.

Lompoc Café and Brewpub, 36 Rodick Street, Bar Habor. ME04609.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

NEW HAMPSHIRE

PORTSMOUTH

Small town on the New Hampshire’s small area of coastline. A lot different from its English namesake, which is a big naval city.

 

Redhook Brewery, 35 Corporate Drive, NH 03801

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone- 603-430-8600

Web site www.redhook.com

 

A taxi ride from the downtown area, but worth the trip. Redhook started as a micro on the west coast in Washington State, this is the east Coast branch. Budweiser has shares in this company. Modern design gives the airy but pubby feel. Windows are a good idea on a sunny day like today. Excellent sample tray which explains the style of beers easily. I asked for a cask beer for the sample tray, the brewer added a Baltic stout which he just had finished brewing. Nice touch. Does brewery tours: see website for details. Good waiter and bar service. Good pub.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2007

________________________________________________________________________________________

Portsmouth Brewery Company, 56 Market Street, NH 03801

Beers- Home brew pub

Telephone 603-431-1115

 

Web site www.portsmouthbrewery.com

 

Only brew pub in the downtown area. Like the Redhook, it has a good drinking atmosphere. Barebrick walls, wooden floors and lots of bar stools. One cask beer on a sample tray of 4. They had 10 beers on draught. It’s a hot day and the fans are on today. Met an English guy who was showing Japanese visitors around at my table. Good bar service, good atmosphere. The beer menu says relax have a beer, right on.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2007

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Press Room, 77 Daniel Street, NH 03801.

Beers US micros and overseas beer on draught

Telephone-603-431-5186

 

Small pub in the centre with 8 beers on draught from overseas and US micros including the local Smuttynose. Pub does live music and on Fridays and Sundays there is a cover charge. No music at the time of my visit. Portsmouth FC and Liverpool FC football scarves behind the bar. Another laid back Portsmouth pub.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Muddy River Smokehouse, 21 Congress Street, NH 03801.

Beers- US micro and overseas beer on draught

Telephone-603 430-9099

Web site www.muddyriver.com

 

Cosy sort of pub, with a drinking area at the front and a dining area at the back. No mainstream beers here, just 19 beers on draught from overseas and US micros. Local brew Smuthynose IPA was good.

 

John 6/10 visit April 2007

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Stockpot, 53 Bow Street, NH03801.

Beers – 5 beers on draught.

Telephone-603-431 1851

 

Bow Street has a parade of restaurants and bars, which overlook the river and the bridge. Restaurant is downstairs; the bar is at street level. No waitress service on Monday night. Five beers on draught also had a bottled beer called Peak Organic Pale Ale which was good. Cosy pub with interesting paintings on the wall.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2007  

 

Did not get around to

Coat of Arms, 174 Fleet Street, Portsmouth, NE03801

____________________________________________________________________

 PHILADELPHIA 

    

Philadelphia is the ‘city of brotherly love’, which is located between New York City and Washington. For the tourists there is the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Penn’s Landing and the Old City District. For the beer lover there are 4 brewpubs (2 in the centre) and an increasing number of pubs serving beers from local micros, there are over 50 local breweries in Pennsylvania and other East coast states. There is also a high percentage of pubs with a good range of Belgian beers on draught and in bottles. The t-shirt for Philadelphia beer week claims it’s the ‘best beer drinking city in the USA’. What would Portland and Seattle say! Seriously there is a good range of drinking holes to go to and explore. Enjoy!

 

DOWNTOWN AND CITY HALL

 

Devils Alley, 1907 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA19103.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-751-0707

 

A dimly lit place with 8 beers on tap and 14 bottled beers with Saison Dupont being the most interesting. The pub is on two floors with candles on the table and lights on a tree, which is inside! Looks like a restaurant, but it is okay to drink. Good waiter service. Yuengling Lager is $2 during happy hour, which is between 1700 and 1900 hours.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Nodding Dog Brewery and Restaurant, 1516 Sanson Street, 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19102.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone-215-569-9525

Web site- www.ripsneakers.com/nodding/

 

Through the door and up the stairs to this central Philadelphia brew pub. At the top of the stairs you can see the brewing vessels.  For a brewpub this place has a very strong pub-like atmosphere and does not seem to be into its food like some American brewpubs. It even has a dartboard. Beers were okay, nothing outstanding. Beers on the sample tray were large samples, more for two people.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Fergie’s Pub, 1214 Sanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-928-8118

Web site- www.fergies.com/

 

So this is where Sir Alex gos to when he relaxes!!  Downtown pub on two floors; the upstairs seems to be for live music. Mock Tudor décor on the outside, as well as inside. A list of beers are displayed outside the pub, but they do not say whether they are draft or bottled beers. One beer is cask. Food reasonably priced for the Downtown area. Been around since 1994!

 

John 6/10 visit April 2008

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Happy Rooster, 118 South 16th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102.

Beers- US  and Overseas bottled beers

Telephone-215-563-1481

 

Old style tavern in Downtown Philadelphia. Lots of wood on the outside as well as the inside. Rooster theme throughout the pub, including rooster posters, figures and some knickers behind the bar! No draft beers but 6 domestic in bottles (not mainstream) plus 8 overseas bottled beers. Beer was expensive, but there was popcorn on the bar. Good atmosphere, good bar staff.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Jose Pistolas, 263 South 15th Street. Philadelphia, PA 19102.

Beers- Belgian beer and US micros

Telephone-215-545-4101

Web site- www.josepistolas.com/

 

Pub which has recently opened about six months ago. A great beer menu which is done in price order, but there is no beer strength on the menu. As well as Belgian and US micros on draft there is one cask beer. The Belgian bottled beer menu has some of my all time favourite Belgian beers. Décor is exposed brick, low lighting and candles on the table. The food is Mexican which makes a change from Belgian! On two floors coming down the stairs from the bathroom is some good beer memorabilia.  Friendly pub with excellent bar service. Managed to meet the co-owner.  An enjoyable visit.

 

John 10/10 visit April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

McGillin’s Olde Ale House, 1310 Drury Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215 735-5562

Web site- www.mcgillins.com/

 

A little similar to nearby Moriarty’s, another upmarket Irish pub.  This pub is the only building in Drury Street, which is a short road. Pub is on two floors with wood panelling, wooden beams, old lighting and various old photos around the walls. Does mainly mainstream beers including Guinness, does have a few micros including Flying Fish Farmhouse Ale which tasted like a lager. Very crowded at the weekend. Pub from 1860 was it trading under the counter in Prohibition?

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

McGlinchey’s, 258 South 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA19102

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-735-1259

 

Next door to Jose Pistolas, but are two totally different pubs! This is one of the old school; no food is served so smoking is allowed here. Good bartender who regular paces the bar to see if anyone needs a drink. This is a no Bud place; they even have Chimay. Maybe because of the smoking this place is crowded with a lively atmosphere. Somewhere different to drink.

 

John 8/10 April 2008

______________________________________________

 

Monk’s Café, 264 South 16th Street, @ Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA19102.

Beers- Belgian beers

Telephone-215- 545-7005

Web site- www.monkscafe.com/

 

This is a shame. Whilst this place does have a great range of Belgian beers, which would put a lot of Belgian cafes to shame, you can only drink at the two bars (there is one at the back) with only 6 seats in each. Even on a Tuesday night all the tables are full with people eating. If I was rating this place for its beer range I would give it 9 out of 10, but this is a pub guide not a restaurant guide! In Belgium it is perfectly okay to have a beer in a restaurant or a cafe. Atmosphere not helped by moody bartender, who admitted to another member of staff she was having a shitty day. Over-rated.

 

John 6/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Moriarty’s, 1116 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone-215-627-7676

Web site- www.moriartyspub.com

 

 Downtown Irish pub with 26 draft beers which are a mix of mainstream imports and US micros, the bottled beer menu is similar. Upmarket décor, with a lot of eating going on. Whiskey cartons and jugs behind the bar and old photos of Ireland around the walls.  Was crowded Friday night, but was not so bad on Saturday afternoon revisit. Friendly place for a downtown pub. Had Anchor Steam Liberty Ale.

 

John 7.5/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Tria, 123 South 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA19103.

Beers- Belgian beers and US Micros

Telephone-215-972-8742

Web site- www.triacafe.com/

 

A Cheese and Beer café! Modern décor with candles on the table, but with a comfortable pub atmosphere. Beer menu claims beer here, is invigorating, friendly, profound and extreme. It includes beers from Norway, Italy and Belgium, as well as local beers. Good friendly atmosphere at the time of visit. Excellent Heavy Seas Loose Cannon.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2008

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

OLD CITY

 

Benelux Tasting Room, 33 South 3rd Street, Philadephia, PA 19106

Beers- Belgian beers. Overseas beers and US micros on draft

Telephone-267-318-7269

Web site- www.beneluxx.com/

 

It is an original idea. You have samples of beer, cheese and chocolate, all things, which Belgium is famous for. This is a good way of sampling some strong beers in small measures. There are 24 beers which 16 from Belgium, 2 from Europe and 6 from the USA. Small basement place with the cheese counter on the right side as you walk in. Etched glass windows, white tiled floor, and candles on the table make for a cosy atmosphere. The chocolate and cheese was nice, as well as the beer. Open 1700 hours.

 

John 10/10 visit April 2008

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Khyber Pub, 56 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA19106.

Beers- US micros

Telphone-215-238-5888

Web site- www.thekhyber.com/

 

Regular bar with a good atmosphere. A little dark but the seating away from the bar is better. 12 beers on taps from US micros plus two imports Jenever and Hoegraaden which at $5 is cheaper than some of the local beer! Various bits of beer memorabilia are around the wall. There is live music most evenings. Happy hour is 1700 to 1900 hours. Good wood carvings behind the bar.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Triumph Brewing Company, 117-121 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone-215-625-0855

Web site- www.triumphbrewing.com/indexfl6.html

 

Brew pub in the Old City district. The décor is comfortable and modern, with seating mainly bar stools. You can see the brewing vessels above the bar. Good range of beers including a honey wheat beer, while Rauchbock was great. Champions League football on the TV made me feel at home. Good friendly atmosphere with good bar service.

 

John 9.5/10 visit April 2008

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Eulogy Belgian Tavern, 136 chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

Beers- Belgian beers, Overseas beers and US micros

Telephone-215-413-1918

Web site- www.eulogybar.com/

 

The beer menu claims it is beer heaven! It is impressive with a good range of Belgian beers as well as Europe plus over 300 beers from US micros. The last section of the menu has ‘TV ad beers (i.e. water) heck we’ll serve you it, if you pay$4 for it’. Small pub with low lighting, candles on the table and a cosy atmosphere.  Bartender was not great but she changes me for 2 beers when I had 3, so I will forgive her! Opens 1700 hours Monday to Wednesday.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Race Street Cafe, 200 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA19106

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone-215-627-6181

 

Pub in the North of the Old City close to Elfreth’s Alley, which is the oldest residential street in the USA.  The décor looks new, with wooden beams, fans, and a fire. Interesting framed photos on the wall. The atmosphere is laid-back and cosy. Bartender pours the Sly Fox stout like a pint of Guinness in Dublin. Lots of interesting overseas beers are on tap. Nice place.

 

John 8/10 April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Society Hill Hotel and Bar, 301 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia PA 19106.

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone- 215 –923-3711

 

A pub in the Old City district. Décor is upmarket but pubby in style, with high tables and bar stools in the middle of the pub. Outside the pub they have Spaten flags with the beer on draft, as well as 8 other beers on draft. Had Sly Fox O’Reilly stout, which was good. Nice laid-back place.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

NORTHERN LIBERTIES

 

700 club, 700 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123.

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone-215-413-3181

 

As I walk into this pub Manchester United v Roma in the Champions League is playing, with the volume high. The pub has football on every Saturday and Sunday at 1000 hours. There are 2 handpumps with cask beer-one is Yards ESB and other is Victory Uncle Teddy Bitter. The beer taps are mainly international beers. The beers in the fridge are mainly Belgian and British. Later in the evenings this place becomes more of a nightclub.

 

John 7.5/10 visit April 2008

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Abbaye, North 3rd Street and Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Beers- Belgian beers and US micros

Telephone-215-940-1222

 

Third pub in the Northern Liberties area, which has Yards ESB on handpump. I like this area! Despite the Belgian name, only 4 of the 11 taps are Belgian, with the most interesting being Maredsous 8.  Hit the bar during happy hour so my beer was $3. While not a student pub, it does have a student pub type of atmosphere including a dartboard. Pub has a laser jukebox. Food is reasonably priced.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Standard Tap, 901 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-238-0630

Web site- www.standardtap.com/

 

Pub with a nice frontage which you can see from some distance away. There are 10 beers and 1 cider on tap from local micros plus 2 cask beers, Yards ESB and house beer Standard Tap. Food comes under the banner of standard fare. Did not see a TV in this pub, which is rare for America! Pub is on 2 floors, including a rooftop garden.  There are some interesting paintings on the wall.  Décor is mainly wood, but there is nothing wooden about this pub!  Everything about this pub is well above standard. Good bar service, friendly atmosphere.

 

John 9.5/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Queen Village and South Street

 

Bridget Foy’s South Street Grill, 200 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147.

Beers- US micros

Telephone- 215- 922- 1813

Web site  www.bridgetfoys.com/

 

Nearby Penn’s Landing is where the Irish landed from the potato famine. So there are a few pubs in this area with Irish sounding names, which are nothing like any pub in Ireland! This place being a good example; with upmarket décor and upmarket everything. The one saving grace is a 4oz sampler of 4 of the 9 draft beers.

 

John 6/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

O’Neals Pub, 611 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone- 215-574-9495

Web site- www.onealspub.com/

 

This might be an Irish pub but baseball, ice hockey and basketball are all on the TV screens. I understand they also show football. The draft beers are boring, but they do have a good choice of bottled beers-at a price! There are various beer offers on the menu. Upstairs bar open from 1800 to 0200 hours. Kitchen opens until 0100 hours.

 

John 7/10 April 2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Zot 122 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Beers- Belgian and overseas beers and US micros

Telephone-267-639-3260

 

A pub of two halves the upstairs bar is student-type bar with drafts from US micros and 3 dartboards. The downstairs bar is a bar/restaurant.   Yet another Philadelphia with a good Belgian beer list, plus beers from Europe and US micros. While most happy hours tend to be in the afternoon, the happy hour here is 2200 hours to 2400 hours. Looks like I hit it at the right time! Friendly atmosphere and friendly bar service made this an enjoyable visit.

 

John 9/10 April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA

 

South Philadelphia Tap Room, 1509 Mifflin Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145.

Beers- US micros

Telephone- 215- 271-7787

Web site- www.southphiladelphiataproom.com/

 

Neighbourhood pub, which is bigger than it looks on the outside.  When you walk up the stairs on your left after the bar there is another room with more seats and tables. Exposed bricks, wood panelling and wooden beams give this place an upmarket feel. Beers are local or from New England expect Sierra Nevada ESB. The bottled beers are in a fridge next to the bar. Crowded especially at the bar, but a good atmosphere on a Friday night. Happy hour is Monday to Friday 1600 to 1800 hours.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2008

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Pub on Passyunk East, 15101 Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19147.

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telphone-215-755-5125

 

Passyunk Avenue is a lively road with a market-like atmosphere, this pub is a fair way out from the centre. Good range of beers, bottled beers are above the bar but there is no blackboard for draft beers. Laid-back atmosphere with low lighting and candles. Only one restroom for both sexes, a little like Belgium!

 

John 7.5/10 visit April 2008

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

WEST PHILADELPHIA

 

Bridgewater’s Pub, Inside 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA  19104.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-387-4787

 

30th Street Station is one impressive building, this small pub fits in well with the whole décor of the station. There is no railway memorabilia around the pub, but they do have Bass and Newcastle Brown Ale brewery mirrors behind the bar. Good but small range of US micros on draft, as well as some interesting imports including Hofbrau on draught and Rochfort in bottles. US mainstream beers are in bottles.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Dock Street Beers, 701 South 50th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19143

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone- TBA

Web site- http://dockstreetbeer.com/

 

New Dock Street bar a long way out in West Philadelphia. Décor is basic with a student-type atmosphere. You can see the brewer working on the brewing vessels, in the window behind the bar. Open kitchen for food. While the beer was good the waiter was very slow, I was being to think I was invisible!  Brewpub opens 1500 hours Monday to Wednesday.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

RITTENHOUSE

 

Cherry Street Tavern, 129 North 22nd Street, @Cherry Street, PA 19103.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-561-5683

 

Good neighbourhood bar. While pub does light sandwich snacks it is drinking which rules here! Wood panelled walls with a rowing oar on the ceiling. A mirror behind the bar has some impressive wooden craving. There are 13 beers on draft including domestic and international mainstream beers, plus some US micros. The pub does trips to Philly’s games. Good bar service on a friendly Friday night atmosphere. Good pub.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________   

 

Grace Tavern, 2229 Grays Ferry Ave, 23rd Street and Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146.

Beers- US micros

Telephone- 215-893-9580

 

A small pub, which is dark even on a sunny afternoon; even the walls are black! Neon lights on the window give the place a little more light. Seven beers are on draught but nothing outstanding. No list of bottled beers. No air conditioning on a hot day. The bar staff seem to love their tattoos.

 

John 6/10 April 2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Tangier Café, 1801 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-732-5006

 

A cool pub with bright colours including yellow walls! Also has Indian artefacts and old photos on the yellow wall. Pride of place goes to the fish tank as you walk in! Good craft beer list with the beer served in pints, imperial pints or just half pints. Excellent bartender who tells me this place has been around for 20 years, while most of the pubs are more recent.  Nice to be in a proper pub!

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Ten Stone, South 21st Street and South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146.

Beers-  Belgian and overseas beers and US micros

Telephone-215- 735-9939

 

Light and airy place which features 14 beers on draft including mainstream Belgian beers, Guinness and Bass. They are a few good points on the beer menu including Woodchuck cider and a few US micros. Décor is Tex-Mex because the food is Tex-Mex. Fans are on as it is hot. Tables are also outside. More of a restaurant feel than a bar.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FRANKLINTOWN

 

Rose Tattoo Café, 1847 Callowhill Street, Philadelphia PA 19130

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-569-8939

Web site- www.rosetattoocafe.com/intro.html

 

Nice laid-back pub just a little outside the downtown area which was visited on a quiet Tuesday night. Interesting red décor including the ceiling and the floors plus some etched glass lights and soft background music. Had my first taste of Dog Fish IPA 60 minute, which was excellent.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Belgium Café, 2047 Green Street, Philadelphia, PA19130

Beers- Belgian beers and US micros

Telephone-215-235-5000

Web site  www.thebelgiancafe.com

 

Another pub in Philadelphia with an impressive Belgian beer list. A place of two halves; first the dining area with the standard Belgian mussels. The second is a drinking area, which is large, and has bar stools along the bar and the wood panelled wall opposite. Somewhere to drink while you are waiting for your meal? There are 6 known Belgian beers and 6 North American beers from micros on draft. The Flying Fish Imperial Espresso Porter was an interesting beer. The bottled beer menu is mainly Belgian, but with another country’s as well.  No beer gravity on a beer menu, which has some strong beers. Good atmosphere. Pub is close to my hotel so a few regular trips to this place.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Bishops Collar, 2349 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA19130.

Beers- US micros

Telphone-215-765-1616

 

Neighbourhood bar in the Frankintown area just outside the downtown area, but within walking distance. The name comes from a pint of Guinness (get it?). Small pub which was crowded at the time of my visit. The draft and bottled beers are listed above the bar. A small beer list, but with a few interesting beers on it.

 

John 7/10 visit 7/10 April 2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

SPRING GARDEN

 

Kerriann’s Bar and Grill, 1549 Spring gardens, Philadelphia, PA 19130.

Beers-Irish beers and US micros

Telephone-215-653-6990

 

An Irish pub with a upmarket feel. While the pub is done out in green and white (how original!) it has some interesting artefacts including a fake stone cross behind the bar. Loud music and even louder people on a Friday night. Mirrors make this place look bigger than it is. Along with Guinness there are also beers from local micros Yards and Dog Fish. Beer seems a little colder than in most Philly pubs I have visited.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

FRANKFORD

 

Grey Lodge Pub, 6235 Frankford Avenue, Frankford, PA19135.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-624-2969

Web site- http://greylodge.com/

 

A pub way out in suburbs of North West Philadelphia for us beer hunters to find. About a 15 minute walk from Frankford station.  This is small pub on a main road which has a friendly atmosphere. Décor is modern with a checked floor, two dartboards and various bits of beer memorabilia around the walls. Ten beers on tap and a range of bottled in the fridge form Bud to German imports. There is a cask beer at the weekend. The Yards Thomas Jefferson Ale was excellent. Quotes about beers are on plaques in the toilets, which makes a change from the ugly graffiti in most US toilets!

 

John 9.5/10 visit April 2008

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ 

 

GERMANTOWN

 

McMenamins Tavern, 7170 Germantown Avenue, Germantown, PA 19119

Beers- US micros

Telephone-215-247-9920

 

This is a trip out on the SEPTA regional train way, but worth it.  There is a different atmosphere from the downtown pubs; more of a homely feel. Good range of beers on draft including Yards ESB on handpump. Bottled beers are displayed on the shelves above the bar. Food menu is light snack meals.  The Victory Pilsner is going down well on a hot sunny day.

 

John 8/10 April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAYAYUNK

 

Mayayunk Brewery and Restaurant, 4120 Main Street, Mayayunk, PA 19127.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone- 215-482-8220

Web site- www.manayunkbrewery.com/splash.htm

 

Brew pub with 8 different beers including 4 lager beers which were Oktoberfest beer, American premium lager, Raspberry lager and Kolsch beer. Sample trays are $5.50. The Oktoberfest was a good beer. Décor is exposed brick with paintings on the wall. Half the pub is for eating, the other for drinking. You can see the brewery through the window behind the bar, but it is not very well lit up.  There is popcorn on the bar. Background music was old swing music.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Old Eagle Tavern, 175/177 Market Street @ Terrace Street, Mayayunk, PA 19127.

Beers- US micros

Telephone- 215-483-5535

 

What we called in the UK a back street local. At

the time of my visit at 1300 hours on a Saturday there is only me and one other person. Pub lets in a lot of light, unlike most US pubs. There are 60 bottled beers in the fridge and a good range of US micros on draft. The pub has a pool table. Décor includes a Yuengling brewery clock and various beer trays from around the world.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Flatrock Saloon, 4301 Main Street, Mayayunk, PA 19127.

Beers-  Belgian and overseas beers and US micros

Telephone-215-483-3722

 

Pub which is on the main street of Mayayunk. Good airy pub with black and white tiles on the wall!  Here’s another Philly pub with a good Belgian beer list. Also have beers from Germany and as well as other European countries. I am not so sure about the Whitbread Pale Ale! Bottles are on display in cases behind the bar. At the time of visit was a college pub crawl which was creating a good lively atmosphere. Good bar service.

 

John 8.5/10 visit April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________

WASHINGTON DC

 

Washington DC is the capital of the USA. For the tourists all the museums are close to each other in one road. With the White House and Capitol Hill nearby, everything nicely close together. Washington has three brew pubs plus enough interesting bars including the legendary Brickskeller to keep us visitors amused!

 

 

 

DOWNTOWN

 

Capitol City Brewery, 1100 New York Avenue, Washington, DC 20005.

Beers- Beers are from sister brewpub.

Telephone-202-628-2222

Web site- www.capcitybrew.com

 

This is Capitol city second pub in Washington. This one is not as impressive as the one by Union station which brews beer, but it is a good place none the less.  There’s a lively atmosphere with good waiter service. The beer and food menu are the same as the Union Station pub.  Location is H Street and 11th street, despite the address!

 

John7/10 visit April 2008

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Gordon Beirsch, 900 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone- 202-783-5454

Web site- www.gordonbiersch.com/

 

 Brewpub chain who are mainly basic on the West Coast and specialise in lager. Greek pillars and ceiling plus a marble floor gives the building a classic feel. The place seems to be more into food than beer, with not too many places for drinkers. There is a free wireless Internet connection. Happy hour is Monday to Friday 1600 to 1830 hours.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

District Chophouse and Brewery, 509 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone- 202-347-3434

Web site- www.chophouse.com/RockBottomWeb/CH/Home.aspx

 

Brewpub two blocks from Gordon Beirsch. While not as crowded as Gordon Beirsch brewpub, this brewpub has a better atmosphere.  Décor is red ceiling and walls with photos of old Washington on them. You can see the brewing vessels on the top floor. Happy hour is 1500 to 1900 hours for light lager and amber ale beers. Pub has a cask beer, but was not on at the time of my visit. Good bar service.

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Elephant and Castle, 1201 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone- 202-347-7007

Web site- www.elephantcastle.com/content/locations/washingtondc

 

English pub at the bottom of an office block. Lots of polished wood and brass. It said it is an English pub and restaurant; I found the restaurant part, but not the pub! The English beers are Bass, Newcastle Brown Ale and Boddingtons, beers that I avoid when I am in England! Fullers beer on handpump, but it is not cask. There are a few US micro beers on draft. There are some good brewery mirrors about the pub. Rowing boat hanging from the ceiling!

 

John 5/10 visit April 2008

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Old Dominion Brewhouse, 1219 9th Street, Washington, DC 20001

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone- 202-289-8158

Web site- http://olddominionbrewhouse.com/

 

A pub that is a little walk North of the downtown area. Pub is under an office block and does not look appealing on the outside, but inside it is more cosy. Dominion no longer brews; the house beers are contacted out. The 20 or so drafts are mainly mainstream Europe beers, but there are a few US micro beers.

 

John 7/10 visit April 2008

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________   

 

R.F.D. , 810 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001.

Beers- US micros and overseas beers

Telephone-202-289-2030

Web site- www.lovethebeer.com/rfd.html

 

RFD stands for Regional, Food and Drink. The place is owner by the same people who run the Brickskeller. The world of beer in the heart of the city claims the beer menu. There are over 30 beers on draft and one cask beer: they are sold in a glass or a sampler. This gave me the chance to try Stones Arrogant Bastard Ale.  A large bottled beer menu, which covers most countries from around the world, which would give most embassy staff a taste of home if they want it. Also does cider, which is unusual for America. Décor is more modern: while doing food there is more of a sports bar atmosphere here.

 

John 8/10 Visit April 2008

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

UNION STATION

 

Capitol City Brewing Company, 2 Massachusetts Avenue NE, Washington , DC 20002.

Beers- Brew pub

Telephone-202-842-2337

Web site- http://www.capcitybrew.com/

 

A good brewpub, which is close to Union Station. Inside and out this is an impressive building. It was once a bank; there is a big safe door left behind, just to prove it! Décor is diner-style seating. There are brewing vessels behind the bar as well on a upper level. Sample tray is well labelled with their beers. Friendly service

 

John8.5/10 April 2008

_________________________________________________________________________________________________.

 

DUPONT CIRCLE

 

Big Hunt, 1345 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-202-785-2333

 

Pub which is easy to walk past. The pub has over 30 beers on draft with a good range of beers from the West Coast as well as the East Coast. Beer list includes Strongbow cider. Décor is red leather seating and low lighting. Good down to earth atmosphere created mainly by younger clientele. Which might explain why I was asked for ID, for the first time in years!!

 

John 8/10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Kramerbooks and Afterwards Café and Grill, 1517 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036.

Beers- US micros

Telephone-202-387-1462

Web site- www.kramers.com/

 

I like pubs in usual settings; this is the first one I have been to in a bookstore! Some bookstores have coffee shops, so why not a bar selling good beer? The bar does not take up too much space, it is about 30 yards long and there is an eating area at the back. The atmosphere is cosy and unique. The beer list are on a blackboard above the bar, there is a good range of interesting US micros. I had Bells Porter from Michigan. You need a code from the bar staff for the bathroom. The bookstore is one of those nice old fashioned bookstores.

 

John 9/10 visit April 2008

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Brickskeller, 1523 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20037.

Beers- US micros, Europe and overseas beers

Telephone- 202-293-1885

Web site- www.lovethebeer.com/brickskeller.html

 

This is the one pub in Washington that I have been to before in 1989 and 1991. Then it was the only pub in Washington with a decent beer range. At the time it sold more bottled beers than any other pub in the world, over a 1,000 bottled beers from all over the world. That title now belongs to the Delirium in Brussels with over 2,000 beers.  The Brickskeller still has an impressive beer menu with a 1,000 bottles. There are over a 100-bottled beers from the UK, Belgium and Germany, as well as over 580 bottled beers from the USA. There are 20 beers on draft including ‘very fresh real ale on cask from the UK’ which was Burton Bridge Thomas Sykes Old Ale. The food menu is still mainly snacks. Décor is exposed brick, tablecloths and red seats. The red carpet is well worn and might have been here the last time I was here! Various beer memorabilia around the walls including a Watneys Red Barrel Plaque-must be a collector’s item now! Old hippie waiter service, instead of ‘have a nice day’. Opening hours see web site.

 

John 10/10 visit April 2008

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

GEORGETOWN

 

Chadwick’s Georgetown, 3205 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20007.

Beers – US micros

Telephone-202-333-2565

 

Small pub in Georgetown with the river across the road, but the road is under a highway bridge. Décor is exposed brick, wood and a red tiled floor. There are also a few Truman’s and Guinness brewery mirrors. There are only 5 taps on including a house beer. Various beers are on offer with cheaper prices at different times and days during the week.  Cosy atmosphere.

 

John 7.5/10 April 2008

______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Tombs, 1226 36th Street NW, Washington, DC 20007

Beers- US micros and mainstream beers

Telephone 202- 337- 6668

 

Small basement bar off the Main M Street strip. Just enough room behind your bar stool before you hit the wall! Bar area is small; the rest of the place is taken up by food. Had Tombs Ale, which is the house beer, the rest of the beer range was mainstream stuff. Interesting World War 2 recruitment poster on the wall. Loud college kids, but it is Georgetown!

 

John 6 /10 visit April 2008

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Birreria at Pizzeria Paradiso, 3282 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007.

Beers- US micros and Belgian beers

Telephone- 202-337- 1245

Web site- http://www.eatyourpizza.com/

 

The ground floor is a pizza restaurant, but downstairs is a great bar with a great choice of beers. Hit the place during happy hour and was pretty crowded, but manage to get a seat. They have a great choice of rare beers from breweries the cask beer was from Williams Brothers plus a good range of Belgian bottled beers. You can have 5oz samplers of 3 to 4 beers for $9. Thanks to Chris at the bar for showing me his favourite pub and some good talking points. Not so crowded after 2100 hours. Great place.

John 9/10 visit April 2008

 

John