Walking down the corner of 2nd and Bainbridge in Philadelphia, you’ve probably noticed the name carved right into the stone of the building: 1926 S. GRITZ. For years, it was just a ghostly architectural detail, a remnant of a bygone era while the space cycled through identities like The Black Door and the beloved Irish Times. But as of mid-2024, the building has finally reclaimed its original name. Samuel Gritz Public House isn't just another gastropub—it’s a weirdly perfect blend of Prohibition-era history and modern lofi vibes that somehow works.
Honestly, it’s rare to see a new spot lean so hard into local history without feeling like a dusty museum. The team behind the place, including managing partner Frank Wise Bell III, didn't just slap a name on the door. They spent months stripping back layers of the 100-year-old building to expose the bones of the property Samuel Gritz and his wife Fannie bought nearly a century ago.
If you’re looking for a standard "burger and beer" joint, you might be surprised. People often assume a "public house" means basic pub grub. That’s the first thing most people get wrong.
The Man Behind the Cornice: Who Was Samuel Gritz?
Before we talk about the brisket, we have to talk about the man. Samuel Gritz was a Polish immigrant who landed in Philly in 1906. He was a hustler in the best sense of the word. By the 1920s, he was a major player in the wholesale grocery world. Things weren't always smooth, though. In 1920, the feds actually went after him for "sugar profiteering" under the Lever Act.
He beat the wrap, or at least recovered well enough to buy 627–629 S. 2nd Street in 1926. He lived upstairs and ran his business downstairs. The current renovation honors that. They’ve kept the soul of the building but polished it up so it doesn’t feel like you’re sitting in your grandpa’s basement.
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It’s a neighborhood landmark that finally has a purpose again.
What the Menu Actually Looks Like (Hint: It’s Not Just Wings)
You can get wings here, sure. They’re good. But the kitchen is swinging for something a bit higher than your average South Philly dive. You’ve got options like Potato Crusted Red Snapper and Crab Cake over Linguini. It’s kind of an "elevated casual" situation.
- The Gritz Burger: It’s a staple for a reason.
- Sweet and Sour Brisket: A nod to the Jewish heritage of the neighborhood’s past residents.
- Potato Croquettes: Perfectly crispy, sortable, and exactly what you want with a beer.
The brunch is a whole different beast. If you haven't tried the Banana Ricotta Stuffed French Toast, you're basically doing Queen Village wrong. They also do a Brisket Benedict that is heavy, savory, and perfect for nursing a hangover from the night before.
The Vibe: Like a 24-Hour Lofi Livestream
The most surprising thing about the Samuel Gritz Public House is the atmosphere. Late at night, the lighting hits a specific "just right" level. It’s not too dark to see your food, but not so bright that you feel exposed. One regular described it as feeling like you’re inside one of those 24-hour lofi hip-hop livestreams on YouTube.
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It’s soothing.
The service reflects that too. Staff like Ell (who regulars rave about) manage to be attentive without hovering. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear your friend talk, which is a miracle in the modern Philly restaurant scene.
Why the Location Matters
The 2nd Street corridor has always been a bit of a battleground for businesses. Being just off the "main drag" of South Street can be a curse for some, but for Gritz, it’s a blessing. It keeps the rowdy tourists at bay and attracts a more local, chill crowd.
Parking? Yeah, it’s Queen Village. It’s a nightmare. If you’re driving, give yourself twenty minutes to circle the blocks or just suck it up and pay for a ride-share. Honestly, the walkability is part of the charm.
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What to Order for the "Real" Experience
- Start with the Coconut Shrimp: It’s a bit of a throwback but they do it well.
- Get a local draft: They have lines dedicated specifically to Philadelphia breweries.
- The Brisket Sandwich: This is the heart of the menu.
- Finish with the Bread Pudding: Though some find it unremarkable, it’s a classic comfort closer.
Addressing the "Casual vs. High-End" Debate
There’s been some chatter on Reddit and local forums about the price point. Some neighbors were hoping for another $10-burger-and-domestic-lager spot. Gritz isn't quite that. It’s a bit more "date night" than "post-softball-game."
The entrees hover in the $20 to $24 range. For a scratch kitchen in 19147, that’s actually pretty standard, but if you’re used to old-school South Philly prices, it might give you a second of pause. The quality of the ingredients—locally sourced and fresh—usually justifies the extra few bucks.
Actionable Tips for Your First Visit
If you’re planning to check out Samuel Gritz Public House, don’t just wing it on a Saturday night.
- Make a reservation: They use Toast Tables. Use it. Peak hours get crowded and the waiting area isn't huge.
- Check the Specials: They often run "test" items on Sundays that aren't on the main menu.
- Go Late: If you want that "oasis" feel, head in after 10:00 PM. They’re open until 2:00 AM every night.
- Dietary Needs: They actually have decent vegan options, including a "Pulled Pork" sandwich made from plants and vegan bacon for brunch.
Samuel Gritz would probably be shocked to see people drinking "Queen Christina Mimosas" in his old grocery store, but the spirit of the place remains. It’s a solid, welcoming corner spot that respects the history of the ground it stands on while serving some of the best red snapper in the neighborhood.
Go for the history, stay for the brisket, and definitely take a second to look up at that 1926 cornice before you walk through the door. It took a hundred years for the name to match the business again, and it’s about time.
Next Steps:
- Visit the official website at gritzplace.com to view the current rotating draft list.
- Book a table via Toast Tables for weekend brunch between 10 AM and 3 PM to ensure you get a spot for the Banana Ricotta French Toast.
- Explore the history of the building by checking out the Southwark Historical Society archives if you want to see photos of the storefront from the 1950s.