Rachel H.
Yelp
I've been slowly watching Human Robot Brewing morph into the space it is today over the past couple of months (via picking up sandwiches from the ever amazing Poe's Sandwich Joint) but I'm stoked to witness their grand opening next weekend (February 6-9th 2020). My boyfriend and I stopped by last night to try some of their beers and grab sandwiches.
I'm not too familiar with that area, but Human Robot is located in the former St. Benjamin BrewCo building on North 5th right next to the Ribbon Factory apartments for reference-- a short ways off from Fishtown in Olde Kensington(?) but well worth the trip (especially since NDA Poe is running the kitchen operation). Seeing as I'm not too familiar with the area I'd suggest driving over or catching a quick Uber. Parking is tight-ish in the direct vicinity, but if you go around the block or down the street you should be good. I've always found a spot close by so that shouldn't be an issue (or maybe it will be once this place blows up in popularity, haha).
We tried the Twiki Tweaks IPA hopped with Simcoe and Citra with notes of Tangerine and the My Machine Don't Download which is brewed on a pillowy base of Pilsner and hopped with Denali featuring notes of pineapple. Both were banging juicy, hazy, IPA's that I've come to really appreciate.
The space in which HRB occupies features exposed brick on the wall to the right, and concrete high tops that add to their sleek industrial vibe. Clean white tile work frames the left wall where the taps are located bringing the eyes immediately to a large arched mirror that backs the bar. This focal piece is dually framed in a large black arch in a V pattern, making the room look larger and spacious. Through the windows to the back, you can see the vats and tanks of the brewery itself which is as interesting as it is functional. As I said earlier, Poe's Sandwich Joint operates the kitchen, and they're located to the back right, visible through a counter like window. Dine in and take out options are available.
Overall I think these guys have really great potential in the Philly Beer scene and can't wait for the future of this dynamic duo.