Take a look inside Cheers to McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Tavern, the book that captures the story of Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating tavern.
By: Alex Gulati
In Philadelphia, history is part of the city’s identity, and locals wear that proudly. Few places embody Philadelphia’s spirit quite like McGillin’s Olde Ale House. The city’s oldest continuously operating tavern recently celebrated its 165th anniversary. Serving as both a tribute and a time capsule, Cheers to McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Tavern tells the story of a bar that has endured right alongside the city.
Author Irene Levy Baker, McGillin’s long-time publicist, reminds readers that what makes the tavern remarkable is not simply its longevity, but the scale of history it has witnessed and survived. From its 1860 Civil War-era beginnings to the challenges of Prohibition, rebuilding after a devastating fire, and facing the uncertainties of two pandemics, McGillin’s has persisted through historical events that have reshaped the entire country. Owned by generations of only two families, this tavern is not only a place characterized by resilience, but also continuity.
Beer has always been part of McGillin’s identity. From the beginning, the tavern operated in the spirit of a traditional ale house. Cellar storage, large volumes of beer, and the simple ritual of gathering shaped the experience. New trends emerged, tastes evolved, and the beer world expanded over time, but McGillin’s stayed true to its core: this was a place where everyone was welcome, and pints kept flowing.
McGillin’s is neither frozen in time nor disconnected from its past. Historic details and architecture, and decades of memorabilia live alongside a modern beer lineup, including popular local breweries like Sly Fox Brewing Company, Cape May Brewing Co., and 2SP Brewing Company. The space is rooted in tradition but remains connected to the evolving beer culture.
Cheers to McGillin’s captures the cultural role of a neighborhood bar. Over the past 165 years, McGillin’s has been more than a place to eat and drink. This is the spot for celebrations, connections, and routine. Milestones are toasted, friendships are formed, and even love stories begin. The space has welcomed everyone from regulars to first-time visitors, longtime employees, and notable guests. This is a place where everyone feels they belong.
The book does well in mirroring the qualities that have sustained McGillin’s for 165 years and continues to attract new customers. A narrative that is informative, nostalgic, and celebratory brings a sense of appreciation to readers – an appreciation not only for the tavern’s significant past, but for the role all neighborhood bars play in shaping a city’s culture and memory. History lovers, members of the beverage alcohol industry, and anyone who has stepped foot into McGillin’s – or wishes to in the future – will enjoy this well-written book that captures the iconic tavern that has helped shape our city.
In an era of constant reinvention to keep up with shifting trends, McGillin’s Olde Ale House is a reminder that some establishments endure because they evolve while maintaining a strong sense of identity. Cheers to McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Tavern by Irene Levy Baker raises a well-earned toast to that rare achievement. Turning the corner onto Drury Street, the bright red, well-lit sign is a warm welcome to a place where history, community, hospitality, and great beer continue to share the same space.
Cheers to McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Tavern can be purchased online or at McGillin’s retail shop, a block from the bar.
Did You Know?
Christopher Mullins Jr., co-owner of McGillin’s, was featured in a national Modelo commercial!