Mac’s Tavern, Philadelphia

At the end of Philadelphia’s Market Street, near Penn’s Landing, is one of Philadelphia’s most famous watering holes, Mac’s Tavern. In a location that was formerly home to Skinners, Mac’s carries the seedy dive bar aesthetic without any of the seediness. The lighting is dark and the wooden counters, walls and floors are even darker. Still, there is a welcoming and homey feeling about the place that cannot be ignored.

Some may recognize the bar’s subtle homage to the FX television show It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia. The cast of the show frequently visits the bar when they come to the city. The evidence is apparent throughout the bar, even in the men’s room where visitors can find the hastily scribbled message, “Charlie Day was here” — Charlie Day being one of the cast members of the show — written on one of the tiled bathroom walls. While the name of the bar and a few of its menu items pay homage, for those who are not familiar with the show, it would appear as any normal Philly pub. There is no overbearing memorabilia or reference to the program, and the bar is not associated with FX in any way.

The bar features drinks for everyone — from both micro and macro brew to an assortment of interesting cocktails. The menu features sandwiches and typical bar fare, but each seems to have a carefully crafted and unique touch. Sweet D’s Turkey BLT ($11.99) with lime-chipotle aioli and the Bourbonic Steak Sandwich ($13.99) with gouda and a bourbon glaze are a few of the notable items.

Mac’s Tavern

226 Market St.

Philadelphia, Pa. 19106

267 324 5507