Top Punk Rock Bars In Philadelphia
Punk music originated in the late 1970s and, even though its heyday was in the 1980s, is still alive and well today. See below on places to catch live punk rock music.
Johnny Brenda's
1201 N. Frankford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 739-9684
www.johnnybrendas.com
Johnny Brenda's is a favorite among Fishtown residents for a drink and live music. At this bar, restaurant and music venue, head upstairs to find the main stage and an area that seats 250. Although all genres are welcomed here, punk rock is frequently heard emanating from the stage. This place also only serves local beer and its food is all made with locally sourced ingredients.
Kung Fu Necktie
1248 N. Front St.
Philadelphia, PA 19122
(215) 291-4919
www.kungfunecktie.com
Kung Fu Necktie may be dark and small, but if music and beer is your thing, you've come to the right place. For its size, this venue boasts an amazing sound system that'll assist any musician taking the stage. It has cheap shows nearly every night of the week and many hardcore punk rock bands take the stage here. Kung Fu Necktie offers an intimate setting for both performers and audience members. Its small stage won't be a problem since half the fun of a punk rock concert is being right in the middle of the action.
Legendary Dobbs
304 South St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 501-7288
www.dobbsphilly.com
The Legendary Dobbs has hosted some legendary bands during its heyday. Pearl Jam, Green Day, Nirvana, the Smashing Pumpkins and Oasis are just a few of the bands that graced Dobbs' stage before hitting the big time. After a 15-year hiatus, Dobbs reopened in 2010 and stuck with its original mission of showcasing strictly original bands nearly every night of the week. This cheap-drinks dive bar hosts all types of rock-n-roll bands and often has punk-rock showcases. Just check its calendar to find out when.
North Star Bar
2639 Poplar St.
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 787-0488
www.northstarbar.com
Local and national acts coming through Philadelphia often play at the North Star Bar, which hosts concerts six nights a week. A favorite venue located in Fairmount, North Star Bar features an elevated stage as well as a balcony, so no matter where you stand, you'll have a good view of the band. In keeping with the punk rock spirit, concerts cost little -- no more than $10. This venue gets in a lot of rock acts, many with a punk influence.
Related: Top Jazz Clubs In Philadelphia
The Voltage Lounge
421 N 7th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 964-9602
www.facebook.com
R5 Productions is a promotion company dedicated to bringing original music to small and intimate venues at an inexpensive price. One of these venues is the Voltage Lounge, which R5, in partnership with Joe Hardcore, books hardcore bands to perform. This place is also right down the street from the Electric Factory, making it the perfect place to have a drink or catch some live music before or after attending a concert at the Factory.
Kelly Neilson is a freelance writer living and working in Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
