With St. Patty's barely behind us and March Madness underway, the season for beer drinking is here.
The craft beer scene has exploded in the last few years, and this week in each of our blog markets, we've rounded up the best craft beer destinations (be it bars, halls or breweries) in a town near you.
Next up, you'll find the top three picks from each town in our slideshow.
PHILADELPHIA AREA: Monk's Cafe
Food: 24
Decor: 19
Service: 20
Cost: $28
If you find the multi-page “beer bible” at this Center City brew mecca somewhat intimidating, take heart. All of the bartenders at Tom Peters and Fergus Carey’s tiny, two-bar gem are experts, and will happily recommend something to suit your palate.
As the proprietors like to say, “If you enjoy Scotch whiskey, port or Bordeaux, we have a beer for you!” (p.s. Do not miss the frites - the bourbon mayonnaise dipping sauce is good enough to drink on its own.)
PHILADELPHIA AREA: Standard Tap
Food: 23
Decor: 18
Service: 19
Cost: $27
It’s all local, all the time at William Reed and Paul Kimport’s Northern Liberties original. On two floors throughout multiple wood-filled rooms, 20 taps pour a rotating selection of the best area brews, and everything’s as fresh as can be, since there are no bottles offered.
Opened in 1999, credit this spot with defining what a gastropub could and should be. For good local beer alongside good local music, visit the partners' Johnny Brenda's, just up the street in Fishtown.
PHILADELPHIA AREA: Alla Spina
Food: 25
Decor: 25
Service: 22
Cost: $28
Italian drink is no longer just about wine. At this Vetri Family birreria on North Broad, a gorgeous custom tap system pours 20 drafts, including unique European finds and specially created house brews.
General manager and beverage director Steve Wildy goes wild with another 50 classy options in bottles and cans, best enjoyed next to pork-filled kitchen bites in the spacious, graffiti-filled room.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider