The Gang's Turf: Unveiling the Pub from "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia"
So you're a fellow degenerate connoisseur of chaos, huh? You binge-watch "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" for the questionable life advice, the endlessly quotable lines ("The implication...), and of course, the bar where it all goes down: Paddy's Pub. But here's the thing – Paddy's Pub, despite being a character in itself, isn't exactly a real place you can stumble into for a rum ham and a fight (although, that might not be the worst idea depending on your night).
What Bar Is It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia |
Paddy's Pub: A Dive Bar Fit for the Gang (But Not Exactly in Philly)
We all know Paddy's Pub – the dim lighting, the questionable hygiene standards (think a layer of grime as a character trait), and the absolute chaos that erupts whenever the Gang hatches a scheme (which is, like, always). The show cleverly portrays it as being located in South Philly, even giving us conflicting addresses at times. But here's the kicker: the exterior shots of Paddy's Pub are actually filmed in Los Angeles! Hollywood magic, baby!
However, there is a glimmer of hope for the die-hard Paddy's Pub fan.
Mac's Tavern: The Real-Life Booze Oasis for Sunny Fanatics
Fear not, because guess what? Two of the show's main characters, the inseparable (and possibly secretly-in-love) duo of Mac and Dee (played by real-life spouses Rob McElhenney and Kaitlin Olson), own a bar in Philadelphia called Mac's Tavern. This is a real, functioning bar, and it's decked out with Sunny memorabilia – a pilgrimage site for any self-respecting fan.
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
So, if you're ever in Philly and craving a "Fight Milk" homage (they don't actually serve that, but they do have good beer), then Mac's Tavern is the place to be. Just beware of Dennis trying to sell you a timeshare, or Dee launching into a cringe-worthy bird impersonation.
Paddy's Pub: Frequently Asked Questions (Sunny Edition)
For those still yearning for the full Paddy's Pub experience, here are some helpful FAQs:
How to get thrown out of a bar like Paddy's Pub?
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
Well, that's a tall order. Normal bar etiquette probably won't cut it. Try starting a cult, boiling denim to achieve peak toughness, or loudly arguing about the merits of milk steak.
How to make Paddy's Pub stench a cologne?
No can do. That's a unique aroma best left to the imagination (or a rewatch of "The Gang Beats Boggs").
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
How to convince your friends to cosplay as the Gang for a bar crawl?
Offer them rum ham as an incentive. That should do the trick.
How to deal with a roommate who constantly quotes "It's Always Sunny?"
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Embrace it! Or, threaten them with a participation trophy participation trophy.
How to find your own real-life gang?
Look for people who can appreciate a good ocular patdown, a well-executed crowtein bar, and the occasional milk steak boiling over the radiator. Just...maybe skip the whole cultivating a monster baby thing.