Varga Bar - Beer 101

Rating: 3.5

Where: 10th & Spruce, Center City East

So you know jack about beer but want to join a pretentious beer cult? Come sit at the bar at Varga and let Ian give you some lessons on craft beer and tattoos (seriously... have you seen his sweet tats?)

After you are done drooling over the chef's take on American and bar cuisine or the pinup girls on the ceiling, take a good look at the beer menu. Chances are you might not have any idea what you are looking at. Which is why sit down, and just listen to the bartenders talk. Try some of the beer in lil' shot glasses. The beer menu is both delicious and extensive. Although a night here can get pricey, you will meet some interesting people. By that I mean if you are 24 and looking for a new job chances are your new boss might drink here. Or if you plan on law school, you could get a recommendation from some of the regulars.

The service is great and the atmosphere is good if you are alone or in a small group.

And if you are looking to impress your date, this is the place to go. If you just want to get drunk ask the bartenders to surprise you. Their concoction may look like a harmless lamb, but it really will turn out to be a vicious sledgehammer the next morning.They have a good happy hour and even list specials and beer changes on their twitter page. If you want to go to a quiet(er) bar and indulge in good beer, Varga should be your destination.

The Crowd: Mixed bag. 30s to 70s. Professional crowd.

Why Go There: Craft brews, Crab fries, Happy Hour, Feeling a lil' fancy?, Mellow night out.

Why Not: Can get expensive, Limited space, It can get crowded sometimes. Mellow night out.

Perfect Time to go: Lunch, Happy Hour

Occasion: Night out by yourself. First date!

Link: http://www.vargabar.com/