Saint Benjamin Brewery Offers Craft Beer with a Side of History

Story, photos by Dana J. Prophet

If you drive a bit past Temple University’s Main Campus, you’ll come to a brewery and tap room that’s within the Kensington section of the city. Saint Benjamin Brewery offers modern brewing techniques and also holds onto history that reaches back to the days of prohibition while presenting both distinctive and magical craft brews along with a menu of tantalizing food.

Find a favorite or drink a flight of craft beer in this location that holds pre-Prohibition history.

This Parley IPA is light with hints of citrus and tropic fruits. Perfect for the warm Philadelphia summer months.

The brewery is nestled within the middle of the street and it was also previously a historic carriage house and stables of the defunct Theo Finkenauer Brewery. Sadly, that brewery is now an empty lot. Fear not though because Saint Benjamin has all types of beer for the fans of ales, lagers, and stouts to serve to thirsty patrons.

Sit by the bar or choose a table. There no bad spots here.

Sip on your craft beer among beautiful original artwork.

The founding father of our country and the namesake of Saint Benjamin Brewery might have never actually said, “God made beer because he loves us and wants us to be happy”, but indulging in the beer at this pub certainly will put a smile on your face.

Benjamin Franklin would approve of the beer menu.

On Saturday the brewery offers tours. Grab your beer (wine or spirit if you prefer) and see for yourself where the magic happens. The brew masters grind the malt on-site where designated pipes lead directly to the tanks. Also, the location looks small, but this brewery can make 1,000 gallons a day.

Head Brewer Andrew Foss checks the tanks and equipment after another full day of brewing.

In-house malt grinding with pipes leading directly to the tanks ensures the freshest ingredients.

The many delicious types of beer that these tanks have and will continue to make.

Head Brewer Andrew Foss makes sure everything stay sparkling clean and maintained.

Now that you took your tour, dine on the fine food Saint Benjamin has to offer. Their menu offers something delectable for whatever you are in the mood for. Choose an appetizer like the fresh oysters or cheese and charcuterie to share or dive right in for their specialty — a Beer Braised Brisket Melt or Angus Burger – just to name a few.

Yes, you *could* share this cheese and charcuterie board, but no one would judge if you devour it on your own.

Beer Braised Brisket Melt – a braised brisket with horseradish cream melted pepper jack cheese on a hearty white bread.

Hamburger fans come feast your senses with an Angus Burger with aged cheddar and a house remoulade. Your choice of with or without bacon.

Whatever you decide on, save some room for dessert. The chef makes two desserts in-house: a chocolate cake and a creme brulee. As a self-proclaimed “dessert snob”, I wanted to see if they could finish this wonderful visit with a perfect ending … and it delivered! Served with amaretto cherries and sauce, this chocolate cake was dark, rich, and delectable.

Close the meal the right way with Saint Benjamin’s own chocolate cake with amaretto-soaked cherries.

Open for after-work decompression, dinner, and also brunch. Want a beer to go? Grab cans, kegs, or a growler of your favorite craft beer. Limited street parking is available.

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