5 Best Bars in West Chester, PA

Want a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Stop by a local bar to enjoy a drink or bite to eat, socialize, and relax. 

There are many bars in West Chester, PA, where you can unwind on a weeknight or weekend — here are five of the area’s best.

1. Bar Avalon

Located on East Gay Street in the heart of West Chester, Bar Avalon pairs an upscale bar menu with casual bistro-style cuisine. 

Treat yourself to unique craft cocktails like the Paper Plane or Do It Dirty at Bar AV. There’s also a large selection of wines, beers, bourbons, and scotches. 

If you want a snack or meal, Bar AV has you covered. Popular shareable dishes include fried pasta nachos and hot honey chicken sliders. Along with these, Bar AV offers salads, pizzas, burgers, and other meal options. 

Don’t forget about Sunday brunch at Bar AV. Every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., you can enjoy brunch specials like traditional eggs benedict and a mimosa board. 

“Had a wonderful dinner at Bar Avalon. The food was amazing, the service was excellent, and it had just the right balance of upscale and fun 🤩.” — Amy Callihan  

2. Side Bar

Also on East Gay Street in West Chester, Side Bar & Restaurant offers three bars, traditional American fare, and seasonal patio seating.

Side Bar feels like a neighborhood bar from the moment you walk inside. If you’re looking for a local bar where you can become a regular and everybody knows your name, Side Bar may be a great choice. 

Along with its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, Side Bar provides a specialty cocktail menu that’s updated seasonally. For instance, during the holidays, Side Bar offers a gingerbread martini, Jack Frost’s margarita, and other cocktails to help you get in the holiday spirit. 

Dinner is served daily from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The dinner menu includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. 

Weekend brunch is available at Side Bar until 2 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Enjoy brunch favorites like omelettes and breakfast sandwiches. There’s even Texas toast-style French toast.  

“Stopped in for an early dinner. Excellent beer selection. Diverse menu. Food was delicious and the service was great. Prices are reasonable. Will definitely go back! (Been multiple times now and great experience each visit! One of my favorite spots now!)” — Dan Fields (The Ride Abides)

3. Jake’s Bar

For those who appreciate a dive bar, Jake’s Bar is definitely worth the trip. 

Jake’s is located on South Matlack Street. It opened its doors in 1938. Since then, Jake’s has been a town meeting place and destination for welcoming residents and out-of-towners.

Additionally, Jake’s is just minutes from West Chester University, so don’t be surprised if you see students spending time at the bar. 

Jake’s is filled with neon signs that help create a cozy atmosphere. It also offers affordable drinks, making it a terrific choice for those who want to get out and enjoy a night on the town without spending big bucks. 

“One-dollar drafts and an incredible atmosphere. Yes, it’s basically a dive bar, and that is exactly what makes it awesome, especially in the era of the overpriced gastropub.” — David Litrenta

4. The Stone Tavern

If you’re on the lookout for a “wee bit o’ blarney” in West Chester, check out The Stone Tavern. Often referred to as “The Stone” by locals, this tavern offers an Irish-inspired bar that provides high-quality spirits and food. 

The Stone is located on West Chester Pike. It features decor that combines the best of Chester County and Donegal, Ireland. This includes 150-year-old reclaimed wood, stone, and mortar with hints of cobblestone and copper. 

Guests can enjoy extensive beer and wine menus at the Stone. There’s also a cocktail menu that includes specialty drinks like the Pickle-tini and Cadillac Margarita. 

Meanwhile, the Stone’s main menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and traditional Irish fare. The Stone is known for having some of Chester County’s best wings, too. 

“The food was all good, and their fries were excellent. Full bar and Guinness on tap. Made for a great way to spend a rainy weekend afternoon in November.” — Joe Williams

5. Ryan’s Pub

Irish pub lovers rejoice! Ryan’s Pub is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or meal alongside family and friends. 

Ryan’s Pub is located on Gay Street and offers a lively and charming Irish American Pub atmosphere. When the weather is nice, enjoy street-side seating to take in the charm of West Chester. Visitors can also enjoy the first-floor bar and dining room or relax in the quiet dining room upstairs.

Ryan’s Pub is great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual meal, happy hour, or even a private party. 

Ryan’s Pub offers a drink menu with draft and bottled beer options, featuring a “beer of the month,” as well as gluten-free choices. It also provides a food menu that includes classic pub-inspired appetizers, entrees, and more, including a children’s menu.

There are different events to enjoy at Ryan’s Pub throughout the week. From Quizzo on Thursdays to Wing Night Wednesdays and a Prime Rib dinner special on the weekends, Ryan’s Pub gives you a reason to visit every day. 

“Great find in West Chester. With many pubs and restaurants open in town you have to have good food and great drinks. Ryan’s Pub has both along with a great beekeeper. She was fun. There’s a lot of good places in West Chester but make sure you stop here.” — Fireplace Guy

Explore the Best West Chester, PA Bars

These bars in West Chester, PA, are excellent spots to explore on your own or with family and friends. If you want to see what West Chester bars are all about, visiting each one is worth your time.  

Of course, if you live in West Chester, you can quickly and easily stop by any of these bars at your convenience. 

In addition to keeping you updated about the top local bars, real estate agent Mike Ciunci can help you buy or sell a home in West Chester. He can walk you through purchasing or selling a home to get the results you want. 

Contact Mike Ciunci for help buying or selling a home in the West Chester area.