How is it that when the kids leave for college and one of the group retires, we have less time? We knew we had to double down our efforts and hit more than one spot if we were ever going to make it to all 50 Top Bars. Kevin determined that a good option for a pub stroll would be Fishtown (whose name is derived from the shad fishing industry in the 18th and 19th centuries).
We started out at Kraftwork (#18) and got an amazing brunch. Not only was the food delicious, but we loved the beautifully sculpted industrial elements around the bar that paid homage to both the tradesman and the artist.
Next, we meandered down Girard Avenue and hit Johnny Brenda’s (#11). We stayed for a few drinks and an apple crisp (which was meh, in my opinion). The place had a great almost New Orleans feel, with the entire upstairs serving as a music venue.
Turning down Frankford Avenue, we made our way to Frankford Hall. Even though it wasn’t officially on the Best Bar List, it must be on a best beergarten list. Having lived in Munich, I felt like I stepped into my past. There was an outdoor courtyard with the atmosphere of a true German beergarten. I love how everything from the beer selection to the tables themselves brought back memories of a lazy Sunday afternoon in Bavaria.
By this time, we were famished, and lucky for us, Fette Sau was right next door. OK, not fond of the name that means fat pig in German, but wow. The barbeque was perfection. I regretted only ordering ¼ lb. of brisket and potato salad, but after the day of decadence, it was time to leave Fishtown.
Neighborhood grade – A (we felt a bond with FSHtown)
Kraftwork – A
Johnny Brenda’s – B+
Frankford Hall – A
Fette Sau – A+
We may have lost control of Operation Top 50, but we’ll never stop trying.
39 to go!
