Dirty Franks, the iconic Center City dive bar has increased its age limit from 21 to 25, writes Julia Binswanger for Billy Penn at WHYY.
While co-owner Jody Sweitzer said she didn’t want to make that decision, she said she had to do so to protect the bar after a surge of underaged customers have been entering the establishment with fake IDs.
“We just need to have the adults in the room again,” Sweitzer said. “It was for preservation of the bar and our liquor license and my sanity.”
Dirty Franks is a neighborhood staple, having opened its doors in 1933. Beloved for its authentic feel and vibes, the dive bar has long attracted many, from its regulars to college students and creatives.
However, its popularity has led to underaged teens trying to get into the bar with fake IDs.
According to Sweitzer, some were bringing their own alcohol, vaping, and breaking other laws.
“They just had no respect whatsoever. It was literally a slap in the face. I was just losing sleep. My staff was really unhappy,” she added.
It was getting to a point where Dirty Franks was no longer what it has been.
The hope is the new age restriction will help.
Read more about Dirty Franks’ new age limit and rising prevalence of fake IDs in Billy Penn at WHYY.
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