Rival bros. coffee roasters

2400 LOMBARD ST. PHILA, PA 19146

Rival! Conjuring up the images of Philadelphia back in the 1970’s with the Broad Street Bullies and Santa Claus getting pelted by snowballs at an Eagles game, it seems somehow appropriate and is on brand with the City of Brotherly Love. Nestled in the neighborhood of Fitler Square is an oasis of great coffee and outstanding marketing that needs to be discovered.

Coffee:

After perusing the coffee online, I was excited to try either their Revolver or Whistle & Cuss roasts (mostly for the names), but the only drip on tap was Ugly Sweater. Don’t judge a book by its cover people….this is a great dark roast replete with a velvety chocolate and cherry backdrop. Rival’s signature menu item is called the “Derringer” and is their take on the Cortado. While the Cortado is typically 4 oz of equal parts espresso and steamed milk, the Derringer ups the milk ratio to a 2 oz espresso and 2.5 oz steamed milk. The drink was perfection with the extra bit of milk cutting the bit of the espresso without sacrificing flavor. Oh, and the pumpkin spice latte was a huge hit that one of our travelers ordered.

Barista:

Largely an executional bunch but yet still friendly. A small interchange about the their beautiful machine (La Marzocca) and how well kept it was and how tidy they were with their workspace, but nothing too conversational. They are clearly serious about the craft and that is appreciated.

Vibe:

Our walk to Rival Bros. Coffee wound through Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square and into Fitler Square was fantastic on a crisp, clear November day. The history coupled with its architecture made for an exhilarating walk into the largely residential area of Fitler Square. Rival Bros. sits on a corner and acts as a cornerstone of the neighborhood. With its “putting up the dukes” signage it stands as a beacon. The shop is bright and lively yet small. It was bustling, even early on a Sunday morning, with a stream of customers and full (albeit limited) seating. I have a feeling it’s not an extended stay type shop, but one in which you meet someone for a cup and then move along. Clean lines, great light and subtle music are inviting. Their merch and aforementioned great branding is undeniable. The owners (high school friends) really understand their marketing and even have a menu of merch accompanying the coffee/merch display. I also like the fact that they had good sweet and savory options in the pastry/food department.