Top Rock Bars In Philadelphia
When you want to get out and enjoy some of your favorite music while in the company of others, preferably with some alcoholic beverages, you may be seeking a cool bar. Here are the top five bars that feature rock-n-roll music in Philly, whether you are looking for a place where there are a lot of people, great food or just that rock-n-roll atmosphere.
Johnny Brenda
1201 N. Frankford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 739-9684
www.johnnybrendas.com
Johnny Brenda's has been known among locals as "the rock bar". Here you can also enjoy local brews, good food and enjoy good conversations due to the lay out (the music venue is upstairs and seats about 250). You can see a band here on a weekly basis, and people rave about the burgers. Johnny Brenda also has outdoor seating with lovely lighted ambiance for when the weather is milder.
Ortlieb's
847 N. Third St.
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(267) 324-3348
www.ortliebslounge.ticketfly.com
Ortlieb's was originally known as Ortlieb's Jazzhaus, and it still retains some jazz music here. After the bar received a makeover, they decided to branch out and play other types of music, including indie music, rock-n-roll and hip hop, and thanks to its roots, it makes for a great venue to enjoy music. Ortlieb's also has a full kitchen, so bring your appetite. Patrons seem to enjoy the wings and bacon cheddar fries and the $1 taco night. Happy hour is popular here since it extends all the way to 7:30. Tickets for shows are on the less expensive side and range from $10-$12.
Grey Lodge
6235 Frankford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19135
(215) 856-3591
www.greylodge.com
Grey Lodge is in Northeast Philadelphia and is a two floor bar that is described as great fun, great food in the great north east. Grey Lodge truly has something for everyone and is even known for its beer celebrations by several magazines. The lodge is also a "Best Of "winner from Philadelphia magazine for their delicious French fries. Rock-n-roll is played on the first floor, and they also have a decent juke box. The second floor is on the quiet side and doubles as an art gallery with pieces from local artists. Quizzo is a big deal here, so for people who love the game, here is a place to enjoy it.
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Fergie's
1214 Sansom St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 928-8118
www.fergies.com
Fergie's is a fun Irish pub that regularly books rock bands to liven up the already lively place. Here you can see some of the hotter local bands. They also have an open mic night for your own inner rock star and "Live Band Karaoke." Fergie's serves Irish food, bar fare and local brews from Nodding Head Brewery; they also offer Quizzo.
Tattooed Mom
530 South St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 238-9880
www.tattooedmomphilly.com
Tattooed Mom is a place for many rock bands to go when they are touring in Philly, so you never know who you will see here. You can enjoy plenty of loud rock and punk rock here. The beer, food and fun are prevalent from 12-2 am every day. Tattooed Mom has excellent food, and many people describe the atmosphere as pleasant surroundings. The location is great since it's right in the heart of South Street, which makes for the ability to walk off your drinks or even do some shopping for your favorite rock-n-roll items. If you have never been and you are a burger lover, you may want to visit on Wednesday when they have three dollar burgers. Tattooed Mom also has pool tables, and upstairs they have couches so you can sit back and relax.
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Christina Dagnelli is a freelance writer in Philadelphia and the author of Little Squares with Colors: A Different way to look at autism. Her work on examiner can be found here Examiner.com.
