Flukes

Fluke's is one of the better bars/pubs in Northeast Philly. The establishment is patronized by primarily Northeast Philadelphians. Not that this is a bad thing, but in recent year's the "powers-that-be" in Philly have ignored this section of the city to focus it's efforts upon improving Center City and West Philly. As a result, people from this section of town exhibit a "bastard son" mentality and rarely venture outside of their turf into other sections of the city like Olde City, Manayunk and Center City.

Flukes has a dual personality. On the inside is a very nice and large wooden bar armed with about 10 beers on tap. And being in a low rent district has its advantages. We ordered a Guinness, Bass and Heineken and it only set us back $7.50. Whoo hoo - keep the pints full! The squared shaped bar can accommodate about 40 patrons.

There's not only a bar on the inside, but about 20 tables and booths around the perimeter where you can order food practically up until last call. The wood-paneled walls have a comfortable level of beer-related swag, not half as bad as your average TGI Fridays. TV's are mounted high around the interior making Flukes a good place to visit during NFL season.

Fluke's outdoor deck flaunts the other half of her personality. Actually this area isn't very large, as far as outdoor decks go. There are about 3 large tables and 6 smaller tables. They've also allotted a small space for dancing amidst the summer wind, if your so inclined. The downside here is that the interior music is piped out here. On Karaoke nights (basically nights where there isn't a live act) you can escape from the tone-deaf singers by hanging out on the deck - the Karaoke is piped out also.

Fluke's is patronized by late 20somethings on up to 50somethings. The outer deck did seem to attract a young early 20something crowd, but when the winter weather comes rolling in, I'd be surprised if the newbies hang their hat's here. The newbies out on the deck seemed to be getting bored and as a result they started to get a little rambunctious. No one ever got out of hand, but their Northeast "bastard child" was coming through and it's a shame. This crowd should have rolled to Maui where there are more people their age "selling it" out on the dance floor.

Regardless, Fluke's does have a great location - it's located right off the Cottman Avenue Exit of I-95. In addition to Fluke's parking lot, there is ample parking on the street. Being sort of stranded amidst an industrial area of Mayfair, there isn't another bar within walking distance so you're hopping back into the car if you want to roll elsewhere. Ah well, welcome to Northeast Philly.

PROS:

Good quality brews are affordably priced.

Nice looking inside & out.

Located right off Cottman Ave Exit of I-95.

CONS:

Crowd is a mix of older folks and young newbies. Never know what to expect.