‘Historical Taste Of American Cuisine & Beers’
City Tavern, located in the Old City District, was the favorite meeting place of many of the Founding Fathers and of many members of the First Continental Congress.
A replica of a historic 18th-century building that was originally built in 1773 is located at 138 South 2nd Street, at the intersection of Second and Walnut Streets in Philadelphia, is also part of Independence National Historical Park.
City Tavern Atmosphere & Experience
Just imagine walking into this tavern as John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson walk out the door!
The building has five levels and includes kitchens, a bar room, two coffee rooms, three dining rooms, a wine cellar, an outdoor garden area for dining, a ballroom, and more.
Guests can enjoy a historic dining experience, complete with Colonial haute cuisine, costumed wait staff, and Colonial-era drinks and desserts.
Drink the Ales of the Revolution! Beer enthusiasts can experience recipes created by some of our Founding Fathers. Such beers as General Washington’s Tavern Porter, Thomas Jefferson’s 1774 Tavern Ale, Poor Richard’s Tavern Spruce, and Alexander Hamilton’s Federalist Ale. For details, click here.
In 1994, award-winning Chef Walter Staib, wins congressional approval as operator of the tavern. Chef Staib continues the dining experience with 18th century recipes.
In the warm-weather months, diners can enjoy the traditional American cuisine from a garden-side seat.
City Tavern Facts
- The first Fourth of July Celebration was held at City Tavern in 1777 to celebrate the anniversary of America’s Independence from Britain.
- 1776 to 1777: Continental and British troops use City Tavern to house prisoners of war. Military courts-martial are also held there.
- General George Washington first met the Marquis de Lafayette at City Tavern in 1777.
- The building was partially destroyed by fire on March 22, 1834 and the structure was demolished in 1854.
- The entire building was reconstructed in the 1970s and re-opened in 1976 for the United States Bicentennial as a functioning tavern and restaurant.
- May 1774: Paul Revere arrives at the Tavern to announce Parliament’s closing the port of Boston. The next day, two to three hundred prominent Philadelphians meet at City Tavern to select a committee of correspondence to draft a letter of sympathy for Revere to take back to Boston.
City Tavern Restaurant
Location
138 South 2nd Street at Walnut Street
Philadelphia PA 19106
Hours
Monday – Sunday | 11:30 am – 9:00 pm | Dinner starts at 4:00 pm
Phone
(215) 413-1443
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