Inside Chinatown’s Newest Sports Bar

If Gritty and Ted Lasso opened a bar together, it might feel a whole lot like Lion Bar — Chinatown’s latest contribution to the sports bar scene. Lion Bar is the newest go-to for soccer-obsessed, Philadelphia sports diehards, and people who just want a pint, a booth, and a reason to yell at the TV. This place is very sports bar centered, but with flavor — a mix of Premier League pride, Philadelphia sports grit, and fans who all brought their jerseys and opinions.

So what makes this spot different from every other place with a flat screen and a fryer?

Via Lion Bar’s Google My Business

For the Soccer Fans 

Lion Bar is fully decked out for Premier League match days — we’re talking scarves on the walls and match schedules like scripture. If you’ve ever dragged yourself out of bed at 6AM on a Saturday to watch your club, you know the struggle. Lion Bar gets it, and they’re open early for those sacred match days — piping hot coffee, cold Guinness, and full-on fan energy included.

Even if you’re not a footy fan, Lion Bar still has deep love for the hometown heroes — Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, Flyers, Union — if it’s playing, it’s probably on at least three screens. 

Let’s Talk Sustenance

The beer list isn’t an afterthought. Expect a mix of Philadelphia adjacent options (shoutout to Victory Brewing) alongside imported classics like Guinness and Snow. The cocktails are surprisingly good for a sports bar (who knew?), and the bartenders can banter with the best of ‘em.

As far as food goes, here’s the thing – they could’ve gotten away with soggy fries and basic nachos and still been packed. But they didn’t. They took the pub food route and actually cared (Philly miracle), along with Chinese staples like dumplings and Dan Dan noodles.

And if backspins are more your speed, check out our feature on SPIN Philadelphia’s First Fridays — where ping pong meets cocktails, and First Friday gets a glow-up.