Johnny B's — Restaurant in Upper Darby

Johnny B's: A Hidden Gem in Delco

From the road, you might never guess that Johnny B's is one of the best bars in Delaware County. With limited parking and no designated lot, it could be easy to overlook. But once you step inside, it’s clear this is no ordinary “hole in the wall.” The bar boasts high ceilings, traditional stained wood trim reminiscent of a classic Irish pub, and a fresh, rotating tap list that feels like a craft beer lover’s dream.

I stopped in for a pumpkin ale while waiting for my pickup order and caught a bit of the Phillies game. The place was naturally packed, but despite the crowd, it felt welcoming and spacious. Located just around the corner from me in Springfield, Johnny B’s is sure to become my new go-to bar spot. With two levels (though I didn’t make it upstairs), it's clear this place is set up to handle the buzz, especially on game nights.

Now, onto the food! My family had been craving cheesesteaks, and we’d heard Johnny B’s had some of the best in the area. We ordered online through their website using Toast (super easy, by the way), and opted for a variety of full-sized sandwiches: Mushroom Steak, Brisket Cheesesteak, Chicken Cheesesteak, and a side of Wedges.

Let me tell you, these cheesesteaks did not disappoint. The Mushroom Steak was absolutely phenomenal — easily on par with the best Philly cheesesteaks I've had (and as a West Philly native, that's saying something). Packed with flavor, perfectly seasoned, and piled high with Cooper Sharp cheese, every bite was heaven. My personal favorite might be the Brisket Cheesesteak, though. The brisket was shredded, smoky, and the bell pepper medley was a brilliant touch.

Even the Chicken Cheesesteak was a hit — my 8-year-old devoured it with a side of Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey Mustard before I could even get a real taste. The chicken itself was those refreshing, proper slab-style cuts (you know the kind).

All the sandwiches came on what I believe were Lucio's rolls, a solid choice to hold up to the massive quantity of ingredients. And massive they were — we’re a family of five, and we had plenty of leftovers. Prices were more than fair for the quality and quantity of food.

Johnny B’s isn’t just a solid spot for great cheesesteaks — it’s got a great atmosphere, friendly crowd, and is priced just right. I’m already looking forward to...

Went in about a month or two ago for the first time to watch the Eagles game, they had them on a few televisions, and other NFL games on other screens around the bar, which I appreciate as a young guy who’s into fantasy football. Drinks were cheap, people were nice, great atmosphere, it was noticeably clean. Went back in for the second time a week later, yet again to watch the Eagles and a fella that works there named Burke sat beside me and we chatted for about a half hour where he mentioned that he remembered me from last time and told me “welcome to the family”. Things like that tend to mean a lot in 2024 when it’s hard to find a sense of community in Delco. Extremely pleasant experience, so I decided to visit again the Sunday after, and this time ordered food. I ordered a bacon jam burger off the menu, and I won’t lie, I was expecting typical mediocre bar food until the bartender asked me how I wanted it done. So I ordered it done medium and got a perfect medium burger. Matter of fact THE BEST burger I’ve had in an extremely long time, I might even argue the best burger in Delco. I mean I was just floored at how good the food was and since then have tried a few different menu items and have yet to be even slightly disappointed. You cannot go wrong with this place, there’s not a single downside. From the friendly, attentive bartending staff, to the meticulously prepared food in the kitchen, or even the dope copper bar top inside. 10/10 this is my new spot for sure. If you’re trying to choose between them and their other two competitors at the intersection of Garrett rd and Burmont rd, this place smokes them by a long mile, and there’s no questions about...

After a recent recommendation from a trusted source, I bumped this up on my list. It was pretty close, and I'm a sucker for a cheeseteak I can enjoy with a Tullamore Dew (or two) and a draft. Delco usually comes through.

My usual dining companion, Azi and I split a "Steele" steak (ribeye and Cooper) and a brisket steak (pulled brisket with Cheddar and Cooper.) Fried onions on both (nicely cooked.)

Azi preferred the brisket (which I attribute to his Jewish heritage) while I thought the ribeye had an edge. Quite frankly, you can't lose with either. Unfortunately, Johnny Bs is a casualty of Conshohocken Bakery's closing, but the Aversa substitute went the distance. Soft, with little crunch, the buttering and toasting elevated it several notches.

The beef was lightly seasoned, and both the brisket and ribeye are locally sourced grass-fed versions. I especially enjoyed the sear on the ribeye. Only in Delco can one find so unpretentious a "gastropub." Sammies were $15.

Anyway, superb service in a chill bar, and unique steaks at a very fair price. This goes into...