Haunting Histories Behind Four Popular Bars and Eateries

Halloween is hands down one of my favorite holidays—there’s just something about the spooky energy, the crazy costumes, and that eerie thrill in the air that just gets me every year. If you share my love for the macabre – then what if I told you that there are places nearby where history and ghost stories come together in the most chilling way?

Philadelphia, often celebrated for its constitutional history and die-hard football fans, has another side—a spooky side that just might raise the hair on your neck. This Halloween, as you wander through the city, you will find more than beautiful murals and Liberty Bell tours. In fact, some of the local bars and restaurants have a reputation for offering more than just a fantastic menu and inviting atmosphere. They're known for their ghostly residents, tales of betrayal, and whispers of the supernatural.

Read on as we take you through five of Philadelphia’s most haunted bars and restaurants, where you might encounter spirits of a different kind. You may find yourself asking—are these tales of spirits fact or folklore? 

Standard Tap - Located in the neighborhood of Northern Liberties, Standard Tap is said to be home to its very own spectral guest—Mr. Smeigelski. Rumor has it that he once lived above the taproom and now haunts the popular bar, his presence lingering in whispers and eerie occurrences. In a 2011 Philly Mag article, an employee shared multiple eerie encounters with a shadowy male figure, believed to be the ghost of Smeigelski behind strange occurrences. Faucets turning on by themselves, shelves toppling over, and mysteriously emptied towel dispensers—Smeigelski’s ghostly antics have left a lasting chill at Standard Tap.

Dante and Luigi's - You just know a South Philly destination had to make the cut, right? This Italian dining icon offers more than classic dishes; it serves a slice of otherworldly history as well. Established in 1899, Dante and Luigi's is one of the city's oldest Italian restaurants. The ghostly legend began on Halloween in 1989, when, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer, a masked man entered the restaurant, reached into his trick-or-treat bag, pulled out a gun, and unleashed a barrage of shots at Nicodemo Scarfo Jr., son of the notorious former Philadelphia mob boss. Since that fateful night, diners and staff have reported eerie occurrences, leaving many to wonder if the past still haunts its walls.

Moshulu - Docked at Penn’s Landing, Moshulu is not just a restaurant; it's a floating museum with a haunted past. This giant four-masted ship, built in 1904, has sailed the world as a World War I warship and witnessed countless stories. However, some of these stories never left it. Staff have reported hearing mysterious sounds and unexplainable hysterical laughter echoing through the corridors. Some say it’s the restless spirits of sailors past who never truly left their beloved vessel. 

McGillin's Olde Ale House - As Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating tavern, Midtown’s McGillin’s Olde Ale House lays claim to an endless catalog of specters. Opened in 1860, it has quenched the thirst of countless Philadelphians, and perhaps one who never quite left. It is believed by staff that the original owner, “Ma” McGillin, is said to still to supervise the establishment, perhaps to make sure it remains a favorite local haunt—literally.

As you can see, Philadelphia’s nightlife is so much more than just good drinks and great food—it’s also full of spooky tales and ghostly encounters! This October, while you’re enjoying a night out in Philly, keep your eyes open—because you never know what, or who, might be lingering nearby.

If you’re craving even more Halloween fun, be sure to check out our article: Philadelphia’s Top Halloween-Themed Bars to Visit This Halloween. These spots have everything you need for a spooky night out. Get your costume ready and explore some of the most spine-chilling and festive Halloween bars Philly has to offer!