Monk's Cafe

"One of my favorite places in Philadelphia. Awesome beer selection and really great food. It can get very, very busy and it’s not a very big place. If walk in and it looks packed, be sure to note there is another bar in the back that you can’t see, so it’s probably worth walking all the way back to check out. Mussels are excellent (Ghent for the win). Order a Pliny. Update from another visit - love this place! Added more photos."

"Now I understand why this place is so popular! Expect a wait but it’s very worth it. Very cool ambiance and friendly + knowledgeable staff. They have an outrageous selection of Belgian beers on tap, what a treat, and the perfect food to accompany it. Or vice versa. Got the duck sandwich, phenomenal. And my girlfriend got the Monks burger. Was unreal and one of the best burgers I’ve ever had - really! Amazing flavor and quality meat. Also got the mussels for an app which were great, and a large quantity. Came here around 2pm on a Sunday and was able to be seated immediately. Even so, was still filled. Next time I’ll come on a weekday afternoon. So good, come here 100%"

"Great beer selection!!! What surprised me was that the food was also phenomenal - burgers perfectly cooked to our preferences (no ketchup) and the fries are just right. Down side: very popular and they do not offer reservation so either wait or plan to come slightly earlier or later. We opted for later and got seated within 15 mins Even though they are very crowded, we got served and taken care of regularly enough that we didn't feel neglected. Highly recommended"

"The mussels and unique Belgian beers are the star of the show at Monk’s Cafe. The spot is also super cozy. We tried the Monk’s Mussels which are loaded with garlic, parsley, and a broth made with Allagash White. They’re super flavorful and MEATY. Mussels come with their twice fries french fries, which come with a delicious bourbon mayo dip. The fries are unique in their shape and size. They’re small like shoestring fries, you gotta stab at some of them with a fork. The short rib was pretty good, the celery and onion were really nice but I do wish the gravy was a bit darker and thicker. Not sure what type of beer they use in the braise but seems like a red wine or porter/stout would do the trick. The short rib was a bit dry but I think a thicker gravy could tighten it all up. In all, Monk’s Cafe rocks and definitely deserves a visit."

"Super nice place to stop and have a bite to eat. Stopped here on a whim and I wasn't disappointed that I stopped. Great food, with fabulous flavor. A nice place to stop to recharge yourself after a long day if either traveling, work, or both. Beer selection is good, so you need to definitely try one that's on tap. Staff is great and super polite."