I’ve always had a dream about starting a blog. Well, not a blog. A microblog. About microbreweries, those gutsy small–scale bars or pubs that produce their own beer. That’s a cute idea, right? Don’t steal it from me. Anyway, if I were to start this blog, the first bar I’d cover is Dock Street Brewery.
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Located on the corner of 50th and Baltimore, this dining establishment is equivalent to having a gastropub at your friendly neighborhood bar. Though a few blocks past campus comfort, the trek west is worth it if you’re a fan of beer and pizza. Dock Street is one of West Philly’s standout watering holes, but it’s also an awesome space for any college–aged kid who wants to have a nice sit–down meal and a beer or two. Think Tap House, but better. To get there, take a stroll down Baltimore and when you cross 49th Street, hang left. Once you’ve passed the hipster–wonderland bike shop Firehouse Bikes (don’t worry, you’ll see it), you’ve reached Dock Street. Inside its red brick facade is an equally warm and inviting space with high ceilings and swirled concrete floors. Once you’re seated and ready to order, you have to try the in–house beers. We ordered the Man Full of Trouble Porter, the Rye IPA and the Royal Bohemian Pilsner. If you like a hoppy beer, try the former two. The pale ale, described as “aggressively hopped," has a crisp but borderline bitter flavor, while the pilsner has a slightly sweet, citrus edge to it. If you prefer a darker, malty brew, go for the porter. It’s rich and smooth, with notes of chocolate malts and espresso. At our table, it was the crowd favorite.
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In terms of food, you’d be a fool if you order anything other than a pizza. Picky eaters, beware—the best pizza is the fig jam ($8.95 for a small, $18.50 for a large). The slightly chewy base becomes a canvas for a blend of mozzarella, gorgonzola and applewood–smoked bacon. It’s the perfect union of sweet and savory. My favorite was the brie ($8.95/$18.25), because whoever thought of covering a pizza in brie cheese, pear slices and walnut pieces is a godsend and my personal hero. Let me just reiterate—it’s covered. In. Brie. If you have a tamer palette, Dock Street has tons of other options. The Parma ($8.95/$18.50) has delicious cuts of prosciutto bacon in it, and an order of sweet potato fries ($5.50) adds a nice touch to any meal. However, we suggest avoiding the burger ($9.95) if you can help it—ours was overcooked. It seems like what this place does best is off–the–wall eats. If you see something that surprises you, get it. Though its distance and foodie options might intimidate, Dock Street can end your collegian dinner blahs. Go west and you’ll never have to suffer another night of Allegro and Natty Lite again.
