McGillin's Olde Ale House
Irish pub · Washington Square West ·
Oldest pub offers vast beer selection, comfort food & karaoke
Oldest pub offers vast beer selection, comfort food & karaoke
"I see this is Philly’s oldest bar, operating since 1860 and passed down through families to the Mullins family, and it’s very much a local tradition: packed nights of sky-high nachos, pitchers of Yuengling, lively karaoke, and an all-hands holiday effort that strings 1,000 feet of garland, 1,200 feet of lights, 150 red bows, and over 200 ornaments — McGillin’s really leans into the season." - Eater Staff
"McGillin’s in Center City isn’t just a sports bar—it’s an institution. It’s been around since before income tax existed (the real good old days) and, despite its age, has a bunch of new TVs with all of the sports packages you refuse to pay for at home. McGillin’s gets pretty rowdy during day games, especially when the Eagles play at 1pm on Sunday, so showing up early is encouraged if you want to take over one of their long tables." - candis mclean
"Paranoia slips in any time you see a gloomy, gothic house. They’re super old, dark, and probably have many mirrors. Midtown Village’s McGillin's Olde Ale House has those same elements, and, thankfully, lots of liquor. Open since 1860, the Irish pub is full of antiques like framed family photos and neon signs, and once in a while, the lights flicker for no reason. (No, it’s not because of PECO.) There’s a chance that you’ll encounter an apparition, like Ma McGillin, an original owner, whose image has been captured by a paranormal group. If you see an actual poltergeist but don’t feel like making a quick exit, grab a plate of crispy buffalo wings, a few beers, and catch a game at one of our favorite sports bars in town." - candis mclean
"Head to this classic, walk-in-only bar for wings, cheering, and green beer. Details about their watch party will be published on their website on Thursday, January 30 at 11 a.m." - candis mclean
"The oldest bar in the city is still one of the best places to watch a game. The long tables always have groups doling out pitchers of Bud Light and sharing buffalo wings (especially when it’s Eagles or Phillies season). But even if sports aren’t your thing, McGillin's works for a nice winter hang by the fireplaces or a drink in the summer when the bar is so packed that the alley in front becomes an impromptu beer garden." - alison kessler, candis mclean