Best bars to pump up your game in Philadelphia

The expansion of this almost authentic German bier hall couldn't have come sooner. With its dirndl-clad servers, rare German beers, and a nearly constant rotation of soccer games on the TV, the once-narrow space was too small to accommodate its crowds starting from day one. Brauhaus was the first in a wave of bier halls and gardens to open in the modern era, and it stands out in part because of acclaimed Chef Jeremy Nolen's full German menu and the owners' true passion for bringing the spirit of the Fatherland to Philadelphia.

With a full menu on tap, until 1:00 am, this terrific Center City venue has fans lined up to watch the game. More than enough HDTVs line the walls and a host of beer varieties tempt the tastebuds of all kinds of folks. Great pub fare is always a Philly favorite, and Cavanaugh's knows how to do it right. Choose from options like their award-winning wings (a must-have for any great sports bar in the city), cheesesteaks, chicken quesadillas, french dip sandwiches, nachos, mozzarella sticks, crab cake sandwiches and other favorites. Here you've got food, drink, sports and good company right in Rittenhouse. It's a win-win.

This Northern Liberties venue is not visible from the street, so venture in and check it out for yourself. From concerts to yoga festivals, this is a space made for fun. With some pegging it as a hotspot for hipsters, it turns down no one for conversation and game-viewing. Food is typical American sports bar fare, and drinks go along for the ride to sweeten the experience. Come to one of the many special events held here for a great time with good company. Parking is known to be tough here, but once you've arrived, it's all good inside this cozy community venue.

First-timers may ask, "What's an 'Old Philly Style Sandwich?'" The answer is right here, just a stone's throw from the I-95 overpass. Tony Luke's has garnered accolade after accolade over the years, and its walls are adorned with the faces of celebs who've dined here and enjoyed every last bite of their Cheez-Whiz-covered steak and Italian pork sandwiches. Of course, the place has never ceased to connect with its more blue-collared customers â€" the reasonable prices and good-natured staff see to that. Stop in to sample a sandwich, grab a few sides, throwback a beverage or all of the above and leave happy.

Make no bones about it - this tavern is all about sports. It's perfect for either a large crowd or just a table for two. Watch the game or enjoy some conversation, patrons sit on cozy extra-large benches which seem to add additional character to the place. The ambiance here is always full of excitement and the drinks pour smooth and strong. Bartenders here are key in helping patrons navigate the plentiful drink menu. Be sure to indulge in some of their offbeat shot selections and specialty cocktails. With categories like One Night Stands, 'Ritas, Superheroes, Hops On It, Hit It & Quit It and others, selecting one will not only be fun but entertaining once you've taken a sip as well.

Located on The Radian Balcony, just steps from the campuses of University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, City Tap House boasts one of Philadelphia's most extensive draft beer lists- 60 taps, including many rare and sought-after craft brews. Paired with a menu of New American Pub Fare, guests dine in a rustic, 120-seat dining room adjacent to an open kitchen.
Featuring extensive outdoor seating on two terraces and a row of five stone fire pits overlooking Walnut Street, City Tap House combines great food and great beer in a comfortable, energized, eco-friendly atmosphere. Step up your dining experience with a visit to this venue, then sit back, relax and take it all in.

What could be cooler than grabbing a cold one in a bar that's a converted auto garage? Pretty much nothing. This cool hangout in the up-and-coming Passyunk section of the city has five large flat-screen TVs, a pool table, skeeball and pinball machines to keep you occupied and happy. Watch the game, play the games and talk about the games. All while socializing with friends, coworkers, family or a date. You can grab the beverage of your choice and indulge in whatever food specials are #Indacart at the time. Fun that lasts longer than any game.

When you're in the mood for good times and great cuisine, be sure to checkout Fieldhouse Sports Bar. The venue is located in the PA Convention Center Complex and is known for offering sports fan a terrific spot to relax, unwind and catch some of the game. The menu at Fieldhouse Sports Bar features a wide array of great selections, made from only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, with something sure to please every member of your group. Fieldhouse Sports Bar has established itself as one of the area's favorite culinary destinations and is sure to offer you a pleasant and unique dining experience every time you visit.

With ESPN calling it the #1 Sports Bar in North America, Chickie's and Pete's has certainly had success pleasing people. This Philadelphia mainstay opened in 1977 and has been delivering great food, great atmosphere and great beer to Philadelphian's and visitors to Philadelphia ever since. Chickie's and Pete's also delivers on convenience, being within walking distance from Citizen's Bank Park and the Philadelphia Sports Complex. With plenty of tables, and TVs to catch the Phillies, Flyers, 76ers, Eagles and more, the sports bar is happening on game nights. Treat yourself to the crab cake burger, or the crab nachos! Or if you're feeling fancy, order the mussels. Then sit back and enjoy the game!

If you're looking for a great sports bar and dining experience in the area of Citizen's Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field, Xfinity Live will be right up your alley. Tables are usually easy to get when you stop in. It's a great place to grab a burger or sandwich with friends, neighbors or coworkers before a Philly sporting event, or down a beverage with friends while you watch the game on one of their many TVs. This place features a fun and lively atmosphere to keep you laughing. They also feature a notable wine list if beer is not your thing.