Dog Bar Coming To Philadelphia's Fairmount Neighborhood

PHILADELPHIA — A new spot is coming to Philadelphia's Fairmount neighborhood that's fit for dogs and their humans.

The Boozy Mutt is set to open in spring 2023 in the former North Star Bar location at 2639 Poplar St.

Allison and Sam Mattiola came up with the idea, which is an off-leash dog park, bar, and grill allowing customers to let their four-legged best friends play and romp throughout the facility.

Humans will find craft cocktails, beers, bites to eat, and a front row seat to the mutt madness.

There will even be a menu for pooches to enjoy a selection of treats.

The facility has 7,500 square-feet of indoor-outdoor space, with 140 seats.

"After adding our dog, Buda, to the family shortly after the pandemic began, we quickly became familiar with the many challenges associated with owning a dog in the city," Sam Mattiola said. "We were in search of a better way to get Buda exercise and socialize him, but we also wanted to enjoy ourselves. We set out to create a space where friends could come together without feeling guilty about leaving their dogs at home. The concept of combining the best parts of a dog park with our favorite neighborhood gastropub was too exciting to ignore."

The Mattiola's are working closely with the Philadelphia Health Department to ensure that the business is up to code to be fully operational to allow dogs both inside and outside off leash.

"You’ll no longer need to walk your dog in the rain or snow," Allison Mattiola said. "This will be a game changer during inclement weather, as you’ll now be able to enjoy yourself when ‘going for a walk’ on a rainy day or night, and the dogs can entertain themselves and everyone else inside the bar."

For those who don't have a dog are still welcome at The Boozy Mutt.

"Everyone’s welcome at The Boozy Mutt," Allison Mattiola said. "The idea of inclusivity is what prompted the name. Plus, watching dogs play is such a fun and therapeutic experience."

Expect to see rules and requirements similar to a doggie daycare.

All dogs will be required to join one of three membership options to keep everyone safe, while offering members access to higher end amenities and special offers.

Daily passes will also be available for those just looking to "sniff around."

For humans 21 and older, there are no requirements or entry fees.

The Boozy Mutt will feature trained "Rufferees" stationed throughout the facility.

Rufferees will not only keep the dog play in check, but will also help to keep everyone safe, replenish water bowls, and maintain cleanliness.

Other amenities include large flatscreen TVs, weekend brunch service, a turfed outdoor yard, and a self-service dog bath station.

The Boozy Mutt will also have a private event space to celebrate birthdays, gotcha days, community Events, and other special events.

“One of our favorite things to do as a couple is host our friends, family, and their dogs at our home," Allison Mattiola said. "We want nothing more than to create a place that fosters the same welcoming and fun experience for our community. Not to mention, we are honored to be the next tenants in the legendary former North Star Bar."

Learn more online here, or follow them on Instagram.