City Tavern
138 South 2nd Street (at Walnut Street)
Philadelphia
(215) 413-1443

Enjoy a taste of history at the City Tavern.

Completed in 1773, just before the American Revolution, the original City Tavern served our founding fathers as well as the elite of Philadelphia. Like most 18th century taverns, it was a central meeting place where business was transacted, where politics were argued, and where social events were held.

Today, the restaurant, which opened in a reconstructed building in 1994 (and is part of Independence National Historic Park), serves cuisine inspired by 18th century recipes in a colonial-style setting. The waitstaff wears clothing authentic to the period, and is knowledgeable about the food and the culture of 18th century Philadelphia.

We especially recommend starting with a glass of champagne shrub - a mixture of sparkling wine and fruit concentrate. (Note that because of the lack of refrigeration, fruit juices were preserved with vinegar and lots of sugar. The resulting concentrate was mixed with a variety of spirits). Other apéritifs include George Washington's Ale (brewed from his recipe) and a variety of local beers like Stoudt's pilsner and Yuengling lager. For the non-tipplers, try Hank's Philadelphia Root Beer.

City Tavern bakes their own bread using traditional recipes. The lunch and dinner menu both include traditional colonial dishes such as rabbit terrine and turkey pot pie.

For more information, see the City Tavern web site.

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