About The Bishop's Collar
It's always the first question, so let's address it right up front: "Where did the name come from and what does it mean?"

"The Bishop's Collar" is a commonly known reference among tavern owners and pub-crawlers throughout the UK. Simply put, a "Bishop's Collar" refers to a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, Ireland's gift to a thirsty world. When perfectly poured, the thick, creamy-white head atop the magical black stout should resemble a Bishop's collar. Take a look at our cool logo and you'll get the idea.

Co-owner Jeff Keel, after considering and rejecting literally hundreds of names for his new pub, spent a few hours quaffing Guinness at a tavern around the corner from his Manayunk home in hopes of stirring his creative juices. As the bartender slid a perfect pint of Guinness in front of him, Jeff was heard to exclaim, "Now that's a Bishop's Collar." The proverbial light bulb went off, and the pub was officially christened, "The Bishop's Collar."

The Bishop's Collar opened its doors at 24th and Fairmount, Philadelphia, in spring 1999. The building itself has always been a tavern and dates back to the early 1900s. Jeff Keel and Megan O'Neil are the omnipresent co-owners who will greet you with a warm smile and a cold libation. The interior will remind you of your favorite UK pub (or the pub of your dreams) with its long, dark maple bar illuminated by candlelight, and the soft hues of farmhouse reds and soothing earthtones. There are even church pews to relax or repent (don't ask where they came from...)

"The Collar," as it's become to those in the know, also has a thirst-quenching, rotating array of outstanding regional microbrews, unusual cocktails, and the best "Sunday Morning Bloody Mary" in the city (it's just as good Mondays through Saturdays). And, of course, there's always Guinness. Alas, man cannot live by drink alone. So, The Bishop's Collar also features a tantalizing menu of pub fare, salads, desserts, and more. Try the wonderfully spicy turkey chili -- but have Jeff or Megan set you up with a
cold one first!

As the case with any fine English, Irish, or Scottish pub, music always fills the air at The Bishop's Collar. The jukebox features the best and most eclectic sounds in the city. The Collar celebrated its grand opening in style with Philly heroes Tommy Conwell & The Little Kings in concert, and has since featured everything from jazz trios to Last Train Home. Look for more great nights of homegrown musical artists and emerging national acts this fall and winter.

Thanks for checking out The Bishop's Collar. We leave you with this Irish blessing:

"May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rains fall short upon your fields, and until we meet again at The Bishop's Collar, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand."