National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant

For over sixteen years, National Mechanics has stood as an enduring presence in the heart of Old City. Constructed in 1837 by the renowned architect William Strickland, our establishment occupies a historic building that has served as one of Philadelphia's beloved bars and restaurants. The timeless allure of National Mechanics reflects the essence of Old City itself – a harmonious blend of classic charm and contemporary functionality. Our warm antique-like feel makes National Mechanics similar to Old City itself; a fresh mix of old-world form and new-age function. Having lived through two Gothic periods, our décor is an allusion to mechanical and artistic elements, from our homemade lighting fixtures to the eccentric pieces that adorn the space: A place molded by time. Our establishment’s name stems from the building's original incarnation as Mechanics National Bank. In fact, as the building was constructed before the invention of the camera, the earliest picture of the bank was taken in 1901.