Royal Tavern

937 E Passyunk Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19147   
215-389-6694

Bar

Strange music or not, neighborhood residents are supremely grateful that this hangout (formerly the restaurant Paglia e Fieno) has opened its doors. It's a signal to the neighborhood that the Bella Vista area is becoming more mainstream. Patrons, though largely twenty- and thirty-somethings vary in age at this chill spot. Even children have been spotted in the simple, tin-ceilinged space.

The bar serves almost every type of beer imaginable, including the inspiring Three Philosophers from Ommegang in New York. And don’t worry, they're serious about bar grub here: the chicken wings are surprisingly good and the salads’ size are proportional to their deliciousness. Chicken wings are better than average, as are big salads. The most fanfare surrounds the delicious duck club with cherry relish, a veggie concoction of spinach, goat cheese and pine nuts, and a popular brisket with cheddar with extra fries. Vegans go nuts for the Royal’s tempeh club sandwich, a triple-decker behemoth of tempeh, “bacon” and fresh veggies drizzled with a faux-creamy basil aioli. On the other (meaty) hand, there’s always the reliable Royal Burger, with caramelized onions, gruyere cheese, (real) bacon, pickled long hots and a side of malt mayo for fry dipping.

Deep red brick and one tiny, high-bow window announce the Royal Tavern like it’s a secret you’ve been dying to find out about. Past the bar, the room’s long and narrow shape leads you to a small raised alcove, a small corner balcony. The atmosphere is laid-back, evening-only, pub with local brews and an alt-rock jukebox, Within an area known for its faux fleur-de-lis-ness, the Royal’s sleek and spare nature — while still quite regal — is welcome.