National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant

22 S 3rd St, Philadelphia
(215) 701-4883

Recent Reviews

Kate U.

On my first ever visit to Philidelphia, I chose to try this place (the nachos looked good on the online menu). When I walked in, the place had an intriguing atmosphere. It was self seating - I didn't see the menus on the table, and the server noticed, so, he grabbed me one and brought over a water, before I even requested anything! I ordered the Nachos with the spicy (not hot, just flavored with spices) chicken - it was So good and the bowl was suitable for 2 or more to enjoy. The plating was intriguing! It was Delicious! While I was eating, the server made me feel welcome, joking that I wasn't the Only one who didn't notice the menus (another party that came in missed them, too!). I returned afew days later with my husband, had to show him some of the city and have him try the nachos - we both Inhaled them! Despite a Large party being there, the server came right over with waters, got our order and had it brought out quickly. We were impressed with the service, despite the large party. I Highly reccomend this place! Try the nachos!! The giant pretzels look delicious, too!​

Sara J.

This was a fun quirky find as we were dodging the rain leaving the Museum of the American Revolution. It was a great stop for lunch. The food was good, and the staff were very friendly. I had the tomato soup and grilled cheese and it was a good fit for that cold wet day. I think it's really more of a bar scene so it's probably a whole different vibe at night.

Maddie T.

Super good food! Came here while visiting w my family and got the mexican burger, it was amazing! Not very spicy but I added hot sauce of course, had a whole variety to choose from. My cousin got the nachos and they were huge! super tasty and filling. Great cocktails as well. Service was great, just two people but they handled it well. Good spot to check out!

Alison H.

Walking by and we decided to go in for Easter brunch. Decor is unique, food amazing, and Dorothy is so wonderful and friendly. Will definitely be back!

Jim Z.

Great happy hour! Nice beer selection and inexpensive bar food that can easily be a meal. They even had TMC on the TV. Love old movies! Visited 3-4 times on a two week visit to Old City.

Eldon P.

Found National Mechanics while in downtown Philadelphia. Loved the historic building. Great selections of beer including a local hazy for me. Split a Philly cheesesteak and we're satisfied. Giovante did a great job serving us.

Alex Badm

We picked this bar because it’s gorgeous building. The atmosphere was amazing, the stuff was friendly and polite. I loved drinks there, my burger was mediocre though.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 5

Paula Jean K.

I'm sitting in a historic building, built in 1837, drinking a Bloody Mary with a huge smile on my face. Mike ordered an Italian Roast Pork sandwich with spinach, garlic and provolone cheese. I ordered the Poutine - French Fries with cheese curds and extra gravy. See photo attached. I know, right? Service is seriously experienced. 5 stars!

Bill Glick

Mediocre beer. All table tops reserved for diners.

Atmosphere: 2

Service: 2

Christine C.

Friendly staff and great selection of beers! The menu is fantastic. We sat at the bar and had great interactions with the bar staff

Alexa M.

Loved this old historic restaurant. The entrance is so iconic. Had some good pub food here, would maybe avoid getting a salad here, but other than that all the food we had was great! Definitely love the Pattie melt and fries. The service was good as always.

Michelle G.

Went for karaoke but got so much more. Very spacious and set up well for karaoke. Like it was a good crowd but it was night to not feel like sardines. Service was pretty good considering how busy it was. Server definitely acknowledged how busy they were and thanked us for our patience- although once they caught up it was fine. I think they were just feeling frazzled. So good karaoke. Great crowd. Here's what I did not expect- the food was really really good. Like really good. It's wasn't anything out of the ordinary for a bar but it was just done really well.

Nyja F.

Came here after seeing a play... Made reservations in advance - we arrived early and were seated immediately. The feel of the place is a little eclectic and divey - I saw a brass shoe/boot on the entrance of the restaurant and some of the windows have stained glass designs. Regarding service, our waitress seemed a tad rushed but she was attentive... I ordered the Ribeye cheesesteak, my friend ordered the shrimp and fries and we split an order of honey garlic wings. Everything that I ate - I tasted everything except the fries - was really good. The food was well seasoned and the shrimp, cheesesteak and chicken was cooked perfectly and was very tender. I did have a side salad with my cheesesteak instead of fries - I was a little shocked by the way the salad looked (I thought maybe it would be a mixed field greens salad but it was iceberg lettuce with diced tomato and thinly sliced onion) - it wasn't bad, just wasn't what I imagined it would be. Overall we had a good experience; if I'm in the area again and looking for something quick and good, I'd definitely return.

Thomas J.

Bar restaurant with a cozy setup. Booths look like old pews or bank benches. Prices were a bit steep, but the food has great flavor and the service was wonderful. Very friendly bartenders and staff, who loved my children dancing in the restaurant. I recommend the National Wings with buffalo; spicy but flavorful.

William K.

great variety of food! best veggie/vegan burger I've ever had (and it's all veggies.....not bulked up with rice or beans!) the smash beef burger is awesome too! friendly service, fun atmosphere, great beer and drink selection.

Load More

National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant

22 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 701-4883