Two New West Philly Gems: A Pint Perspective Visit to Two Locals Brewing & Carbon Copy
This past Sunday afternoon, Pint Perspective ventured out to West Philadelphia to check out two of the city’s most exciting new brewery stops — Two Locals Brewing and Carbon Copy Brewing. Both delivered unique experiences, memorable beer, and the kind of community vibe that keeps you coming back.
Two Locals Brewing: A Mission in Every Pour
If you’ve followed Pint Perspective for a while, you might remember our 2020 profile on Two Locals, the trailblazing brewery founded by brothers Richard and Mengistu Koilor. As Philadelphia’s first Black-owned brewery, their mission has always been bigger than beer — it’s about representation, opportunity, and bringing craft brewing closer to their community.
What started in a backyard with a one-gallon homebrew kit has grown into a 6,000 sq/ft facility at uCity Square, complete with a 15 BBL brewhouse, 12-tap bar, and space for about 80 inside. During our visit, the taproom buzzed with energy as Spoken Word Sunday set the tone — a perfect pairing of art and ale. We sampled their Prolific Hazy IPA and Nubian Brown Ale, both of which lived up to the hype. The hazy delivered bright tropical notes without being overly sweet, while the brown ale balanced roasted malt richness with a smooth finish. The Koilor brothers have clearly stayed true to their goal of crafting beers that reflect their culture and palate — look out for their fruited/tart ales featuring unique, heritage-inspired fruits.
Carbon Copy Brewing: Big Vibes, Bold Flavors
Just down the road in West Philly’s former Dock Street firehouse, Carbon Copy Brewing has brought fresh life and fresh brews to the neighborhood. Run by Kyle Wolak and Brendon Boudwin — both veterans of Tired Hands — Carbon Copy is equal parts brewery and winery, offering everything from crisp beers to low-intervention wines.
From the moment we walked in, Carbon Copy felt like the kind of place that earns the term neighborhood bar. The atmosphere was unpretentious, warm, and inviting. The space itself — with its cozy nooks and wood-fired oven — makes it easy to settle in. And the food? Fantastic. From pizza straight out of that oven to creative snacks that complement their drink lineup, every bite matched the easygoing excellence of their pours. Whether you’re popping in solo for a quick pint or settling in for a full meal with friends, Carbon Copy delivers on all fronts.
Final Pour
West Philly’s craft beer scene just leveled up. Between Two Locals Brewing’s inspiring mission and well-executed beers, and Carbon Copy’s vibrant space and delicious offerings, these two stops should be high on your list. Next time you’re in the area, make it a point to check them out — and let us know which brew (or slice) stole the show for you.
