Ready to explore the new Manayunk? Here are 10 great restaurants and bars to try.

by Abigail Wolfe, entertainment editor

Haven’t been to Manayunk in a while? The “new” Manayunk may surprise you. Since its last heyday in the ‘90s, the town has welcomed an influx of restaurants and bars. Old favorites are still there – and as charming as ever. Don’t know where to start? Here are 10 great restaurants and bars to try in Manayunk.

 Artesano Café Manayunk

Coffee, plants, and food trucks. What more could you need? Artesano Café is the perfect Sunday morning spot for hot coffee or a cold breakfast cocktail. Browse the main floor full of plants of all kinds (and all available for purchase) while waiting for food and drinks to start the day. After getting a coffee, stop outside at the brunch truck for a bite before heading back inside for one more plant to take home. In fact, most of the seating inside is saved for the plants, so stop outside, and sit with some even bigger outdoor plants! Editor’s choice: Classic mimosa and The Millennial. 109 Green Lane, Philadelphia

Fat Lady Brewing

Fat Lady Brewing’s welcoming atmosphere entirely translates to its beer choices. As one of the last independent breweries in the area, Fat Lady offers a variety of in-house brews as well as other local craft brews to provide an all-inclusive experience for patrons. If the beer selection wasn’t enough, Fat Lady also hosts local musicians and shows, a private second floor, members-only sports lounge, and a speakeasy. Feel free to bring some friends and utilize the board games located on the first floor. Editor’s choice: The Sideshow and The Ringmaster. 4323 Main St. Philadelphia

Jake’s And Cooper’s Wine Bar & Wine Shop

Jake’s And Cooper’s is Manayunk’s ultimate wine destination. There is something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned sommelier or trying your first glass of wine. Whatever the case, the staff guides you through the dining experience from start to finish. The service is notorious in the best way. Even if wine is not your cup of tea, Jake’s And Cooper’s offers a full bar and several draft beer selections to ensure that there is something for everyone. Plan to stop by on any night of the week, but make reservations  for Friday and Saturday nights. Editor’s choice: Tuna tartare and the seasonal wine flight. 4365 Main St., Philadelphia

Lucky’s Last Chance

The best burgers in Manayunk are at Lucky’s Last Chance. If you have any doubts, just look at their award-winning lineup of burgers, like the PB & Bacon Burger, three-time winner of the Philadelphia Burger Brawl People’s Choice Award. Another winner is the best-selling Mak Attack Burger. Both the main floor and upstairs dining areas have atmospheres like no other, but if the tables and booths are full, don’t be scared to hop over to the bar for a beer and some loaded tater tots while you wait. Editor’s choice: The Pickle Monster and jalapeno cheese tots. 4421 Main St., Philadelphia

Manayunk Brewing Company

Unofficially considered the first stop along Main Street, Manayunk Brewing Company has been a fan favorite for decades. The rich history of the building spans all the way to the 1800s, with Manayunk Brewing Company entering the scene in the 90s. Ever since, locals have enjoyed the large outdoor decks along the Schuylkill River year-round, thanks to industrial sized heating lamps. Local beers shine on the menu next to the vast food selections. Editor’s choice: Street corn dip and spiced American mule. 4120 Main St., Philadelphia

SOMO Manayunk

SOMO Manayunk is another of Manayunk’s historic sites. The vintage feel of the interior is intoxicating, just like the signature cocktails that get better with every change of the seasons. A personal favorite spot for brunch, SOMO offers anything and everything you could need during a good meal. The cuisine focuses on American classics like disco fries, burrata, fried chicken sandwich, mushroom pappardelle, braised short ribs and lobster ravioli. Editor’s choice: Seared salmon B.A.L.T and Respect Your Elderflowers cocktail. 4311 Main St., Philadelphia

Taqueria Amor

Hungry for a classic margarita, guacamole, or taco? Taqueria Amor has that and more. With an expansive variety of tequilas, the options for cocktails, margaritas, or straight tequila are nearly endless. Every guacamole on the menu is delicious. And every taco is worth eating more than one of, which comes in handy when looking at the happy hour menu. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday- Friday, draft beers and tacos are $2 off, all guacamole and nachos are $3 off, and all Amor & frozen margaritas are $2.50 off. If the name didn’t give it away, Taqueria Amor is the perfect spot for a date night or night out with some close friends. Editor’s choice: Guacamole loco and blood orange amor margarita. 4410 Main St., Philadelphia

The Goat’s Beard

With more space than its sister restaurant in Wayne, Manayunk’s version of The Goat’s Beard is approachable, fun and delicious. The traditional American cuisine has yet to disappoint. Also amazing: the whiskey and craft beer selection available at happy hour Monday- Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. While it may not be the only place to find a great cheesesteak egg roll, it is hands down the best place to find a Detroit-style pizza, especially if you find yourself upstairs next to the pizza oven. Upstairs is quieter than the downstairs bar, but you probably need a reservation for either floor. Editor’s choice: steak mac & cheese and The 30 Day Strawberry. 4201 Main St., Philadelphia

The Rook Manayunk

The Rook Manayunk prides itself on being the perfect neighborhood bar, and has what it takes to back up that claim. Tucked away just a few blocks from Main Street, The Rook offers consistent food and a great selection of seasonal draft beers, fun cocktails, and classic wines. The newly renovated interior offers ample seating and access to every Philadelphia sporting event on any given day. The private patio and outdoor bar are also a perfect spot to escape the crowded city feeling as it is almost completely hidden from the streets and sidewalks. Need a friendly neighborhood spot? The Rook fits the bill. Editor’s choice: Old Bay shoestring fries and the orange mule. 4001 Cresson St., Philadelphia

Winnie’s Manayunk

Winnie’s Manayunk has a triple treat: weekend brunch and everyday lunch and dinner. Right at the center of Main Street, Winnie’s offers both indoor and outdoor dining, plus online ordering for when you’re in a rush. The all-day menu has something for everyone, from pasta to fries, sandwiches, and salads. Winnie’s also has a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. The inclusive menu and atmosphere make Winnie’s a top contender for any Manayunk visitors or residents. Editor’s choice: Southern fried chicken sandwich  and Backyard Beans coffee. 4266 Main St., Philadelphia

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Want more information about great eats in our region? Read about Taku Japanese Steak House in King of Prussia, Autana in Ardmore and V Empanadas in Wayne.

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