CENTER CITY. One of South Street's most nostalgic watering holes, Doc's Sherlock Holmes-inspired environs have welcomed everybody from pro athletes to med students to cab drivers over the years. Entertainment runs from live acoustic jams to open mic nights upstairs, and the kitchen serves up burgers, crab cakes and even NY strips.

SOUTH STREET. A laid-back atmosphere, great beer and interesting Cajun-inspired eats, like sausage sandwiches, explain this quirky pub's appeal.

CENTER CITY. A Philly staple since 1860, McGillin's has remained true to its heart over the years, serving great eats and cold beer to everybody from Ed Bradley and Ethel Merman to Robin Williams and Will Ferrell. Inside, the place has the timeless look of a neighborhood tavern ­ dark-stained wood, plaster walls, red floor tiles and tall windows. Adding a certain kitschy sense of tradition to the place is the unique display of Pennsylvania tavern licenses that hang on the wall behind the bar, one for each year the place has served alcohol. Keep your eyes peeled to the calendar and plan to stop in when McGillin's hosts a karaoke night ­ they're a blast. Occasional live music as well.

CENTER CITY. Named after a boat, this pub's outfitted with shipshape nautical decor and 7 flat-screen TVs! The kitchen's up late (til 1:30), and they keep a variety of brews (bottles and drafts) and wine on-hand.

CENTER CITY. Located on the corner of 16th and Spruce, Monk's has been collecting award after award for its outstanding beer selection since the Clinton administration. The front bar normally features an American microbrew or two as well as single malt scotches, small batch bourbons and top shelf tequilas. At the back bar, meanwhile, several hard-to-find Belgian ales like Chouffe Houblon, Augustijn Blonde and Flemish Sour Red Ale are on tap. In case you were wondering, the grub ­ including daily specials like Rodenbach lamb stew ­ has been specifically chosen because it complements the international brews.