The Black Sheep Irish pub in Philadelphia opened in 1999. It is
located near Rittenhouse Square. I went on August 28, 2025. It was the second
time I had been there, but my first time going alone. It was just as good as I remembered
it being the first time I went a few years ago. When I went with my friends, I
had found the pub on Google Maps and decided to take a chance, and they did not
disappoint.
The food was delicious. I had the shepherd's pie both times I went. It is made with ground sirloin (some places make it with lamb). They brought out HP sauce to go with it. I tried a bit this time out of curiosity, and it was so good, but I ate the shepherd's pie mostly on its own without the sauce. When I went a few years ago with some friends who were in town, they loved what they got as well.
I loved the overall atmosphere of the place. It has a cozy
pub feel to it. I felt comfy enough to just sit there and read my book (working
my way through “Dracula”). The décor items hanging on the walls are a good mix
of local Philly items and Irish items you would expect. They have sports
memorabilia from Philadelphia and Ireland, and plenty of Irish beer signs as
well. The service was excellent. My
server was so sweet and attentive to what I needed and wanted.
Be careful when you go on and leave- there are steps leading
in and out of the restaurant. I am not the most graceful person and have
definitely tripped after missing the steps at other places (even though I did
not drink). I am not sure if there is a wheelchair-accessible entrance, but I
did not see one.
Overall, it is a great Irish pub! The atmosphere is very
cozy and welcoming, which is on brand for Ireland and an Irish pub. The
shepherd’s pie is one of the best shepherd’s pies I have had in Philadelphia. If
you are looking for a great Irish Pub in Philly, check them out.
Related Articles:
-Irish Pub Review: McGillin's: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/08/irish-pub-review-mcgillins.html
-Irish Pub Review: Garvey's: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/06/irish-pub-review-garveys.html