If you think you know South Philly dining, but you haven’t been to 1825 East Moyamensing Avenue, it’s time to check your GPS. Tucked away in Pennsport—where the Mummers are royalty and the parking is a competitive sport—sits Moonshine Philly, a spot that has quietly become the living room we all wish we had.
Walking into Moonshine feels like stumbling upon a secret that the entire neighborhood is in on. The space—formerly the old East Side Saloon before owner Rich Fattori transformed it in 2013—has shed its dive bar skin for a rustic-industrial glow-up. Think exposed brick, warm wood, and a noise level that says “we’re here to have a good time.” It’s the kind of place where the bartender knows your drink before you sit down, striking that perfect balance between “classy date night” and “come as you are.”
A Living Room with a Pulse
In a city defined by its neighborhoods, Moonshine Philly has mastered the art of being a “local.” It’s located just off the legendary “Two Street,” giving it a front-row seat to South Philly culture without the tourist trap vibes. “We wanted to create a space where you can watch the game, have a first date, or just grab a beer after work, and feel equally comfortable in all three scenarios,” says Fattori.
And the neighbors agree. The crowd is an eclectic mix of old-school South Philly residents, young professionals, and Mummers taking a break from the clubhouse. It’s a rare venue that manages to feel trendy without losing its soul. It’s loud (bring your outside voice), it’s lively, and it’s unapologetically South Philly.
Comfort Food, Elevated
Let’s be clear: this isn’t your standard pub grub. The kitchen at Moonshine takes the dishes you loved as a kid and gives them a culinary glow-up. It’s familiar, but with a serious edge.
The undisputed star of the menu? The Cheeseburger Eggrolls ($10). Forget the frozen ones you get at the stadium. These are house-made, packed with seasoned beef and cheddar, and served with a spicy Sriracha ketchup that will ruin regular ketchup for you forever. They are the perfect bar snack: crispy, cheesy, and zero fork required.
For the main event, the Moonshine Mac & Cheese ($9+) is a heavy hitter. This isn’t blue-box stuff; it’s bowtie pasta drowning in a house-made cheddar béchamel. The pro move is to customize it—add the Blackened Chicken ($4) or go big with Crab ($5). It’s creamy, rich, and guaranteed to cure whatever ails you.
And we can’t ignore the Pennsport Burger ($15.50). A nod to the neighborhood, this burger is topped with crispy prosciutto, tomato jam, and fresh mozzarella. It’s Italian-American heritage on a bun.
What We’re Drinking
You can’t go to a place called Moonshine and drink vodka sodas. Okay, you can, but why would you? The bar stocks legit Ole Smoky Moonshine and uses it to craft some dangerous cocktails. The standout is the Solar Sangria ($10): Blackberry moonshine mixed with Pinot Grigio and Peachtree schnapps. It tastes like juice, hits like a truck, and is arguably the best $10 you can spend on a Tuesday.
If spirits aren’t your jam, the tap list is a love letter to the region. With staples like 2SP Delco Lager and Tonewood Fuego, you’re drinking local. And hey, on Thursdays, all craft beers are $5. Yes, really.
The Mummers Connection
You can’t talk about this stretch of Moyamensing without talking about the Mummers. Moonshine Philly embraces its location in the heart of Mummers country, serving as a hub during the chaotic joy of New Year’s Day and a steady gathering place the rest of the year.
Unlike places that shy away from the neighborhood’s quirky traditions, Moonshine leans in. It’s common to see club jackets hanging off the backs of chairs and hear debates about upcoming themes over pints of IPA. Fattori has even been known to bus customers to the Mummers Parade personally. It’s this authenticity that separates Moonshine from the new wave of gentrified gastropubs popping up across the city. They aren’t trying to change Pennsport; they are celebrating it.
A Neighborhood Landmark
In a South Philly dining scene often dominated by cheesesteak wars and Italian BYOBs, Moonshine Philly is carving out its own lane. It’s a place that reflects the grit and charm of its zip code while offering a dining experience that rivals anything in Center City.
Whether it’s the dog-friendly sidewalk seating (yes, bring your pup), the legendary Taco Tuesday + Quizzo combo, or the Sunday Boozy Brunch, this place gets it. Step inside 1825 East Moyamensing, order the eggrolls, grab a Solar Sangria, and settle in. You haven’t just found a new restaurant; you’ve found your new living room.
