In Ireland, every village has its own “chipper,” a place where guests can enjoy a fresh, tasty dose of fish and chips.
In July 2021, cousin co-owners Shana Cox and Eric Connor brought the Irish eating experience to Wyndmoor, and are poised to expand with a forthcoming brewery license.
“We’ll be able to sell and serve anything made in Pennsylvania, including beer, spirits and wine, along with our own Yankee Chipper beer,” Shana said. The application was submitted about a month ago, and Shana and Eric hope to hang it in time for the holidays.
Currently a BYOB establishment, the spot is more than just a table to feed one’s face: live entertainment is a regular feature within 827 E. Pleasant Avenue’s doors. Wednesdays are a mainstay for local performers and traditional Irish music sessions, and semi-regular appearances include John Byrne, Gerry Timlin and Andy Keenan, well-known Irish singer/songwriters.
“It’s been as challenging as any new restaurant tends to be, but the community has been very welcoming. All in all it’s been a good experience. We’re hoping the license expands what we’re already offering,” Shana said. “We just got a pinball machine in here to go with our foosball table. The kids love it.”
Eric lived and worked the restaurant/pub scene in Ireland for years, and Shana, whose dad has full Irish blood, visits her homeland as often as she can.
“I go back and forth a bunch. We’re both from Philly, and we’re both from the same Irish-American family. We have a restaurant background, so we decided that since there’s not a consistent chipper, we could bring that here. It’s a place to see neighbors and friends,” she said.
Stay tuned as the Yankee Chipper expands its menu and employment offerings. For more on the Wyndmoor restaurant, you can check out their Facebook page and website.
Oh, and just for funsies… Before you pay a visit, test-drive this list of 80 popular Irish expressions and slang. Tá fáilte romhat!
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