Cheers! Philadelphia’s oldest tavern is re-opening with outdoor dining only on Drury Street (which runs from 13th to Juniper between Chestnut and Sansom). Over the past few months, the owner and staff have worked hard to create a safe environment that still maintains the spirit of McGillin’s Olde Ale House.
There will be 50 seats at umbrella-covered tables in front of the iconic exterior with its window boxes overflowing with flowers and neon sign. Surrounded by high tops, tables for 2 and tables for 4-6 people.
The historic bar will have a full bar with dozens of beers including its three house beers, wine and select seasonal cocktails. The Terrace Menu will feature McGillin’s most popular appetizers and sandwiches like wings, nachos, the BIG burger, cheesesteak, grilled chicken breast and grilled Reuben and other crowd pleasers, (not the full 10-page indoor menu.) According to Pennsylvania law, alcohol only can be served for on-premises consumption when in the same transaction as a meal.
Outdoor hours: From 3 pm to 11 pm on Friday, September 4; Saturday, September 5; and Sunday, September 6. Hours moving forward – to be determined. Daily specials not currently available. Stay tuned for news about indoor dining.
Reservations: For the first time in our 160 year history, reservations are suggested. Walk-ins welcome.
For reservations: Click here.
No reservations will be taken by phone. Reservations will only be taken one week at a time. Tables may be reserved for up to 1-1/2 hours. Reservations are strongly suggested. The only way to guarantee seating is with a reservation. Walk-ins will be seated, first-come, first-served if seats are available.
Take out: Call 215/735-5562. (Only available during open hours)
Delivery: Is available through Postmates.
Safety Protocol: McGillin’s takes safely VERY SERIOUSLY.
For guests: (Ma McGillin’s rules)
- Masks (covering mouth and nose) are required at all times, except when eating and drinking.
- If you would like your server to approach, be sure your mask is ON.
- Please put your mask on when a server approaches your table.
- Touch-less ordering using a QR code on your phone available.
- Or use disposable menus
- Please do not move tables or chairs – just ask our staff and we can try to help!
- Please wear a mask when you go inside to use the restrooms or any time you get up from your table.
- Hand sanitizer will be plentiful, outside and by the restroom doors.
- We know you are excited to celebrate with us and are happy to see your favorite server, but we ask that you not shake hands, fist bump or hug our staff.
* Most importantly, sit back, chill and enjoy the time you are here – we are thrilled to see you back!
For staff:
- All servers/bartenders will wear face coverings.
- All staff will do a self-check including temperature before leaving for work.
- All staff will have their temperature checked by a manager again when they arrive at work and at the end of their shift.
- Staff will stay 6 feet away from guests, except when serving.
- Drinks will be served in one-use plastic cups.
- All staff will wash hands every 15 minutes.
- Every door handle will be disinfected every 15 minutes.
- Bathrooms will be disinfected every 15 minutes.
- Tables and chairs will be thoroughly disinfected after every meal.
- Work stations will be cleaned frequently.
McGillin’s opened in 1860 – the year Lincoln was elected president. After surviving the Prohibition, which lasted 13 years, the Mullins family was committed to making sure the historic tavern would survive the coronavirus too. This is the longest the bar has been shuttered (Ma McGillin served “tea” upstairs during Prohibition) and McGillin’s can’t wait to welcome back the loyal customers who make up its community.