2nd Story Brewing

Got into Philly and wanted to check out the local brewery. Immediately, we were approached with a sour attitude. The bartender told us that they were out of food and we should leave. We politely told them no, we were here for drinks. We asked a few simple questions about the beer and the process and were treated with short, snide remarks. My group of 5 thought maybe he was just in a rush but the bar was fairly empty. The beer was decent, but we were left with such a sour taste in our mouths to give this place a decent review.
Customer service skills go a long way, 2^nd Story. Remember that.

Great food and great beer. I had the fried chicken sandwich and we split the pretzels as an app (the cheese that comes with them is bangin’).
The kitchen screwed up and didn’t bring my sandwich with the pizzas my friends had ordered. After a few minutes I asked the bartender if he could check on my meal since my friends had already gotten theirs. He immediately comped the meal and my glass of wine without my asking and went back to the kitchen to get my food for me. I’ll definitely be going back.

Beer is good and food is good. That’s one star. Sadly the wait time for food was long, the wait staff and bartenders were rude, so it doesn’t deserve any more stars. Had such a bad experience, we waited almost 2 hours for burgers and pizza and an extra half hour to pay our checks. What a joke. Don’t come here on a Friday night, it’s not worth your time. Go next door to Han Dynasty instead, they treat their patrons well, the food comes out immediately and it’s awesome.

Obviously I’m going to like a local craft brewery in Philly. Of the last four words in that sentence I’m very passionate about four out of five of them. If you think I’m passionate about the preposition «in» then you are sorely mistaken. They’d really need to poison me or kick a puppy for this review to go sour.
To be honest, I didn’t love the first beer I tried there back in March 2015. Looking through my UnTapped app, my ratings are a little spotty for Second Story Brewing. On my most recent trip, I found a few the beers that tickled my taste buds. Sanity Kryptonite and Adsultim IPA were both excellent specimens of IPAs. I also tried that Brewer’s Widow (a black and tan) and the Goldin’ Abbey Ale (pale ale-​Belgian). Both were fine but just didn’t do it for me.
On a cold weeknight, the brewery had a surprisingly decent crowd. My friend and I were able to snag bar spots, but it did take a little time to flag down a bartender to place a beer order. It also took a while to flag down the bartender again to place a food order. We split the asparagus pizza and it was a delightfully gourmet pie with mornay sauce, shaved asparagus, bacon, truffle oil and pecorino. We just didn’t expect it to take so long for a pizza.
It was a chill scene overall though and not the typical Old City vibe. One song that stuck out was by Beck. I felt I could’ve hung out there for a while.
So although I haven’t loved all of the Second Story beers I’ve tried, didn’t think the service was overly attentive and thought it took way too long for a pizza; I applaud them for being a local craft brewery that brews a few beers I’ve enjoyed and cooks up a great gourmet pizza. Add in a great atmosphere for beer sipping and I think I’ve found myself a winner.

Stopped by for drinks between movie and dinner elsewhere. Attractive, comfortable, rustic place. Ordered Brewer’s Widow and Spiced Pumpkin cocktail. Beer delicious. Cocktail delicious. My issue is with the size and cost. Rather than a 12 or 16 oz beer, their offer is 9 or 16. $ 5 for a 9 oz beer is a bit much. The cocktail came in a miniature martini glass for $ 10.
That’s a quick $ 18 spent to get in from the cold and kill 45 minutes.

A group of us wandered in after having a great time on the Big Red Bike Tour. We sat in the back and ordered some beer and apps and had a great time joking around with each other. Our server seemed ready for quitting time and not happy about having customers come in, even though the place was open for another few hours. Everything was average at best (food, overpriced drinks, atmosphere) and nothing here stuck out as special. I’m somewhere between 2 and 3 stars, but because our server was such a party-​pooper, I’m going with 2.

I really enjoyed my experience here. The house brewed beer list has something for everyone. I tried the Haka pale ale and winter ale and liked both. I split the roasted beet salad and the 2^nd story burger with my friend and both were amazing. Our table split lava cake and the adult sundae, both of which were to die for. They went well together as the chocolate cake was very decadent and the ice cream evened it out.
My friends got growlers to take home, which was a plus. The atmosphere is really lively. It’s a big place and the tables are nicely distanced. One thing that was odd, the server forgot to bring out utensils before serving the entrees, and then again before dessert. So our food sat in front of us while we waited for someone to notice we had no utensils. My friend said this happened to her on a previous visit as well.

Where to begin!!!
First the beer. I am a huge fan! I got a flight of their year round IPA — really crisp and not overly bitter; Haka pale ale — amazing! A beautiful golden color ale with nice citrus notes; the bock — my favorite! An easy smooth drink with caramel notes; the black ale; dark yet perfectly light and smooth. Honestly my bf and I loved their variety and flavors and wish we had them in north jersey!
Now the food! I’ve had two of the best things ever from here. 1^st the split pea soup — the best I’ve ever had! So green and hearty with a lovely taste of peas. 2^nd the roasted spaghetti squash — it was mind blowing! So buttery and complimented by crunchy hazelnuts and creamy ricotta; this was heaven on a plate.
Compliments to the brewer and the chef!

Great service. Good food. And good beer?!
Walking by you may not notice this big space as it fits in with the other brick buildings in old city, but inside is a cool, huge, brewpub. The beers in house are always good and there’s rotating selections. You can tell the owners care as they work to pair their food with the beers.
The food is also good. Definitely a step up from the food served when this place was owned by Triumph. Snacks or meals, there’s lots of good options, including vegetarian friendly options.
Talk about service. We held our wedding reception here. Stephanie was s pleasure to work with. She worked with our budget and made sure we got the most bang for our buck. Day of the event, our guests were impressed and well served. Everyone liked the food and drink and the staff knew my wife’s and my drinks and refilled us before we could even ask. They even helped us load up our decorations the next morning!
You won’t disappointed checking out 2^nd Story.

2^nd Story Brewing is one of those bars that’s large, but feels cozy– Unless you’re in the back-​side room (by the bathrooms), then I just feel forgotten.
I know that they get super crowded on the weekends, but on weeknights it’s not too bad. They have trivia every week set up in the back, which is fun.
Of the food, I recommend the fried chicken sandwich. Its HUGE, and delicious. The chicken was crispy and juicy, and cooked perfectly. I am also a big fan of their pretzels with cheese dip (also comes with mustard).
For dessert, you have to try the boozy sundae, made with ice cream from Franklin Fountain. It’s delicious!

The stopped by here for dinner before a chill night out. The food was delicious and you’re able to do beer flights here, and I always love anything flights! It’s a great venue in a great part of town.

«I want it all. I want the wall.» That seemed to be the sentiment post-​2 hour scavenger hunt when we walked into 2^nd Story. After much walking and an early afternoon drinking naysayer (ahem, Edward!), we wanted to put our butts down and pick up drinks. I had the hot cider, and while it fell a little flat with the bourbon it did warm me up.
Though quoted above, Sari sat opposite me when I grabbed a backless stool near the wall and pulled the table closer. Staring at the menu I wanted pretty much everything on it. Instead, I opted for the adult grilled cheese. Fontina, manchego, AND cheddar? How could this not be delicious.
Perhaps I’ve spoiled myself with Black Eyed Susan, but the sandwich was slightly lackluster. It was good, but it wasn’t very warm and the apples were only in one spot. Ingredient distribution is important. I might have had soup as well, but I truly don’t recall already.
It’s possible the fact that we all seemed to be chilly, tired, and ravenous warped our sense of time, but unlikely. Once we had our few, no one stopped by to see if we wanted more drinks or anything else. Luckily, I had mentioned I wanted the in-​house donuts when I ordered the sandwich.
The best part about the donuts was the accompanying 5-​oz. porter. That thing was tasty, while the donuts were just not. Too dense, muddled in flavor, not particularly enjoyable. Le sigh.
I’d still stop by again for drinks and appetizers.

Apps:
Braised spicy pork fundito:
Really good. Creamy and spicy with big chunks of tender pork. The chips were nice and thick and were well suited for heavy excavation.
Smoked brisket sandwich:
Wasn’t a huge fan. No smoke flavor to be found. I should have realized that there wasn’t a smoke pit in the middle of Philly, but I was on my 4^th 16 oz. Pennsylvania Lager (which was incredible) so I wasn’t thinking straight. The biscuit was really good though.
Adult Grilled Cheese:
5 stars. Loaded with cheese and bacon on some nice thick and crispy bread.
Fried Chicken Sandwich:
Another great sandwich. The batter on the fried chicken was really flavorful, and remained crispy throughout the meal.

I’ve been to 2^nd Story a few times a few months apart. I’d give it 3.75 stars if possible. The food is pretty good, especially the chicken in a biscuit! They have a variety of beers. It’s a really great venue for groups. Someone working there is a talented artist, shown in their chalkboard beer lists.

Seriously torn on this rating. Right now, 2^nd Story is hovering around 3.25 stars in my head… I think. Maybe. I’m not entirely sure. And I’m not sure they are either.
Since they opened, my visits have been spaced out at every two-​three months, it seems. Each time I walk in, they have nearly a whole new draft list. Each newly named brew appears to have a similar flavor to its predecessor, and I’m not sure what all the switcheroos are for. (And.yes, I just seriously wrote switcheroos on a public website and I’m not going to delete it.)
A quick look back at my Untappd shows a favor toward their early/​winter offerings, like the Riverwards IPA, and in March, the Revolver IPA. I’ve yet to see either again.
I think it’s great, especially as a newish brewpub, that these guys are trying out things to see what works. But I also think that a touch of consistency could do them a world of good. Like the Hall and Oatmeal Stout? Where’d that pretty thing go? Or heck, the Sticky Icky IIPA was fantastic too.
Yesterday, upon asking for some recs, the bartender suggested their lager. He informed me that it’s similar to «Yuengling in a can» to which I’m sure my face replied with «…» Slippery slope to compare to a giant, even if they may be a nearby/​classic giant. Needless to say, I did not go for the lager.
I’m hoping to see a few familiar names on the menu my next time in. Like where’d the Tilted Barn go? I vote for a return!
As for the food, everything I’ve had so far has been great, but especially the adult grilled cheese. Like grilled cheese? Try theirs.

Service by Ryan was very attentive and thoughtful, had a table for 7 ppl at 6:45 with reservations. Walked in table was reserved and ready. We started witha doble set of flights (4 beers for $ 7.50) and we ordered appetizers.
Braised Spicey pork fundido with pickled jalapenos, poblano cheese sauce, pico de gallo and corn tortilla. Chips. So good we had to ask for extra chips to lick the platter clean. And have a 2 nd serving of it.
Hanger steak done med-​rare with romanesco sauce, wild mushrooms and brocoli rabe. so good it was gone before i could have seconds.
scallops with pear and pistachio purée, blood orange and pea tendrils. A homerun with the perfect seared scallop and the subtle savory flavor of the pistachios and the blood orange create a perfect combination of flavors. I certainly did not expect to find this dish at a brewary. I would have ordered this dish as a main course had i known it was so delicious and such a generous portion.
2^nd story mussels with shallots, white wine, thyme and grilled bread. Brooth a bit on the salty side but even so with the bread you can soak a little of the brooth just enough to flavor the bread. Good but not great. The mussels were very dry, i would not bother to order this dish again.
SHRIMP BLT; whats not to like? Shrimp, apple wood smoked bacon and the secret sauce in a little sandwhich that packs a punch.
ADULT GRILLED CHEESE; apple chutney, fontina, provolone and cheddar cheese on sourdough bread. Oh and did mentioned BACON? This sandwhich spells insanity on the first bite and to the end.
The rest fo the table had burgers and salads but the above items were serious treats to the palate. Not forgetting our amazing server who was gracious to also suggest a place where you can find ice cream made with beer??? say what?
Look up franklin fountain for beer flavor ice cream if u dare

Great menu and food all around, and the atmosphere in here is inviting, but the slow service on a not-​that-​busy Sunday early evening was disappointing.
Braised spicy pork fundido was a good appetizer, the menu describes it well-​a few more chips, but a tasty dish.
Crab salad was really good, with lump crab meat and good produce. My boys continued the seafood kick with a Shrimp BLT and Fish & Chips-​they finished everything and said they liked what they had. My wife enjoyed her Scottish Salmon.

Awesome brewery which is coincidently locating in the bustling Old City. If you’re hanging out by the Delaware River, then I highly suggest coming by. The seating is bountiful and the staff works as a great team which makes stopping in a pleasure.
I was very impressed with the beers. There were about eight options on tap of which six were seasonal specials. Given that it was a hot day, I opted for a couple lighter beers: a saison and a wheat. Both beers had full bodies and had tremendous flavor from the initial pour to the last sip.

We came here on a Sunday for dinner, 15 min wait but it went by fast because we grabbed some drinks by the bar. I got the 4 flights of beer (~$ 8); you chose 4 samples of beer from their bar. The drinks are pretty cheap here and they serve growlers at the bar.
I got the adult grilled cheese sandwich ($ 12) with fries, pretty yummy and decent portions. I like the ambiance of this place, chill and 80s music. I will def be back, one of the better places in old city.
They serve your basic bar food but I think it’s pretty good quality.

Avis à tous, si vous visitez Philly, aller prendre une bonne bière chez 2^nd story brewing
les +:
— Le choix de bière et de whisky/​bourbon
— L’endroit est agréable, propre
— le staff est super
— les prix sont corrects
les -:
— ça peut être vite plein à craquer

I made a mental note to try this place out awhile ago and completely forgot about it until my friend and I wanted to get dinner somewhere in the city. I had been to this location years ago when it was Triumph, so I was glad to see that another brewpub took its space. Brewpub options in CC are definitely limited especially with Nodding Head closing.
We had about a 15min wait for a table so got our flights at the bar while we waited. I had the wit, lager, five mile ale, and dirty blonde while my friend had the wit, lager, dunkel, and stout. The wit was both of our favorites. I also really liked the dirty blonde even though it was more on the hoppy side. They really didn’t have a ton of beers to choose from, but that’s to be expected from a smaller brewing operation. I would’ve liked to see some more light/​non-​hoppy beers available.
We moved to our table which was a high-​top in the bar area… oddly enough, the exact same spot I sat at Triumph years ago. For food, we got the pretzel bite appetizer and then we each got the adult grilled cheese. It was so hard to choose, everything on the menu sounded so delicious! The pretzel bites were yummy and buttery, and came with a creamy cheese sauce and a horseradish mustard. The cheese sauce definitely had more cream than cheese, would’ve liked the opposite… but it was still good as was the horseradish mustard. The grilled cheese was heaven on big chunky sourdough bread! Fries were ok, not my favorite.
After another beer, we realized they actually had a really good looking cocktail list. I switched it up and had this fig cocktail which was the perfect summery drink, I could see putting back many of those. I had another drink, can’t remember what it was, but it had rosemary in it. It was good, but not as good as the fig one. My friend had the rum punch type thing and it was super minty but decent.
The bathrooms are co-​ed, each their own little room with a sink so that was kinda cool. As the night went on, the place was getting packed and we were basically forced out because people were literally leaning on our table since we were by the bar. Not their fault by any means, but just be aware that if you’re at a bar table and it’s getting later. When we got our check, I was surprised at how cheap it was! I was thinking we easily put back $ 100 worth of food and drinks, but it was only around $ 80.
Definitely a good option for brewpubs — beer, cocktails, food, and service were all great! I’d definitely like to stop back here at some point to try some more menu items.