Milkcrate Cafe, a cherished Fishtown establishment blending coffee and vinyl records, has ventured into West Philadelphia, inaugurating its second location on Baltimore Ave on September 28th.
The West Philly iteration mirrors the original, housing a meticulously curated vinyl store complemented by La Colombe coffee and a menu boasting music-themed delicacies like the Notorious E.G.G. and Bagella Fitzgerald. Additionally, it offers turntables and Hi-Fi audio gear while buying select used vinyl from customers.
Owner Adam Porter expressed his decision to expand, citing the unparalleled energy of West Philly, distinct from any other part of the city. He envisions a bright future for his business in this vibrant locale.
Simultaneously, Milkcrate is expanding its repertoire, commencing brunch events on weekends and broadening the ‘Vinyl Bar’ concept. This novel concept, launched in June 2023, transforms the cafe into an evening cocktail lounge with local DJs spinning vinyl records from 5 p.m. to midnight on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 8 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Porter, after acquiring a liquor license in 2022, seeks to perfect the nighttime aspect of his business. The expansion into West Philly became possible due to the availability of a retail space on Baltimore Ave, marked by its unique atmosphere, greenery, historic architecture, and diverse populace.
For now, the West Philly Milkcrate operates from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with extended hours in the fall. The Fishtown location retains its weekday hours until 3 p.m. and weekends until 5 p.m.
Milkcrate’s Vinyl Bar at the Fishtown location will be open from 5 p.m. to midnight on Wednesdays to Saturdays, with exciting nighttime event programming to follow.