The Trestle Inn defies the usual categories. It is a bar with over 300 whiskeys, a go-go stage, a neighbourhood crowd that has been coming for years, and a bartending staff that can steer you through the American whiskey section with the same confidence a sommelier navigates a wine list. This combination should not work as well as it does. It works extremely well.
Located in Callowhill, a neighborhood that has grown considerably since the Rail Park opened nearby, the Trestle Inn occupies a long, dark room with wood panelling, a serious back bar, and enough energy on weekend evenings to keep you there well past midnight. The go-go nights are genuinely good entertainment, and the cocktail list does not use the bar's entertainment programme as an excuse to relax its standards.
The whiskey selection is the main draw for serious drinkers. Bourbon is the strength. The staff can navigate the selection intelligently, making recommendations based on your taste profile rather than defaulting to the most expensive option. For anyone exploring Philadelphia's live music bar scene, this is essential. For whiskey lovers, it belongs on the same itinerary as Washington's Jack Rose and New York's Little Branch for different, but complementary, reasons.
The bar also pours a solid cocktail list with strong classic foundations. The Old Fashioned is an excellent use of the whiskey selection. The weeknight crowd is local and relaxed. The weekend crowd is larger and louder. Both versions of the Trestle Inn are worth experiencing.
What to order
- 01
Single Barrel Bourbon Neat
Ask the bartender to select based on your preference for sweet, spicy, or high-proof. The selection is 300+ deep. This is the right question to start with.
- 02
The Old Fashioned
Bourbon, Demerara sugar, aromatic bitters, orange oil. Built properly with a large format ice cube. The choice of bourbon changes the drink significantly — ask what they're using tonight.
- 03
The Whiskey Smash
Bourbon, fresh lemon, simple syrup, fresh mint. Cold, refreshing, and easy to drink in a warm room on a Friday night. One of the bar's most popular orders for good reason.
- 04
Draft Beer