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The Twisted Tail

The Twisted Tail, 509 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia

4.5
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.5 out of 5 (136 Ratings)
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1.2 miles Theatre of Living Arts
About The Twisted Tail
The Spotlight on The Twisted Tail

Southern Charm Meets Live Music Energy in the Heart of Philly

Modern yet rustic, The Twisted Tail brings Southern-inspired American cuisine to Philadelphia's historic Society Hill neighborhood. Just a short walk from many of the city’s top concert venues, this lively spot blends a relaxed gastropub vibe with a touch of Southern hospitality. Exposed brick walls, whiskey barrels, and live blues performances set the tone for a fun night out.

Known for its impressive whiskey list, wood-fired small plates, and upbeat atmosphere, The Twisted Tail is a go-to for locals and visitors looking to kick off their night with bold flavors and great music.

Why Concert-goers love it

Location is everything, and The Twisted Tail is ideally situated for music fans heading to nearby venues. Live music is part of the experience here too—often featuring local blues and acoustic artists—making it a seamless transition into your concert night. The service is notably quick and friendly, perfect for grabbing a bite before showtime. With a casual dress code and energetic vibe, it never feels too stuffy or too slow.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends grabbing drinks and shareable bites before a show
  • Solo travelers looking for a lively bar and a welcoming crowd
  • Couples planning a romantic but laid-back evening with music and cocktails
  • Fans who want their night to start with live music and good food
  • Budget-conscious music lovers who appreciate happy hour deals and shareable plates

What People Say

Diners rave about the friendly staff, the “cool and cozy” decor, and the “excellent whiskey selection.” Many call out the live music as a highlight, saying it adds to the ambiance without overpowering conversation. The menu gets high marks for inventive twists on Southern comfort food, with standouts like the fried chicken, deviled eggs, and mac & cheese. Visitors love the balance of casual comfort and quality dining.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests mention that the restaurant can get a bit noisy during peak hours—especially when live music is in full swing—so if you're looking for a quiet meal, it’s best to go earlier in the evening. A few reviews note that seating can be tight when it’s busy, so reservations are recommended for pre-show dining.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're pre-gaming for a concert or winding down after one, The Twisted Tail hits all the right notes with its live music, Southern eats, and unbeatable location near Philly's entertainment hubs.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
American
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Opening Hours
Brunch
Sat 11:00 am-4:00 pm
Sun 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Dinner
Mon-Thu, Sun 4:00 pm-11:00 pm
Fri, Sat 4:00 pm-1:00 am

The Twisted Tail Customer Reviews

Many have visited, but none have returned to tell the tale. Will you be the first to write a review of The Twisted Tail?

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

The Twisted Tail is #174 of 5402 things to do in Philadelphia

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: kencavanaugh
Mon 9 Jun, 2025
l Food was excellent, servers called us by name (very friendly), and George Reilly (the owner) spent lots of time socializing with us and other patrons!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: TravelingArt1st, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Sun 20 Apr, 2025
l We came here for after dinner drinks and were very happy with our experience here. Great cocktails and an extensive bourbon list that I will have to come back to try more of. We also wish to return...

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: Mark R
Sat 12 Apr, 2025
l Cool menu. Very good drinks and food. Waiter was very efficient and friendly enough. Loved the crayfish mac and cheese. After dinner, we went upstairs where they had a blues/jazz band playing. They...

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The Twisted Tail 509 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia