Where was It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia filmed?
2005
City Locations
Philadelphia, PA (USA)
Location Types
Apartment, Film Studio, Diners/Coffee, Restaurant, Clubs/Bars
Location Styles
Craftsman, Colonial, Building Dated/Retro, Factory/Manufacturing, Modern Building
About It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Discover the longest-running live-action American sitcom, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, created by Rob McElhenney and Glenn Howerton for FX. Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Rob McElhenney, and the renowned Danny DeVito are among the outstanding cast members of the sitcom, which premiered on August 4, 2005.
The show provides a hilariously gloomy look at the lives of many self-obsessed pals who own and operate a South Philadelphia dive bar called Paddy's Pub. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is famed for its distinctive combination of black humor and social satire, and the protagonists are trapped in absurd situations time and time again by their immoral plots for vengeance or personal gain.
Charlie Day won two awards in 2016—the Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Comedy Series and Best Actor in a Comedy Series—for his outstanding performance in the show, which garnered recognition for more than just its humorous qualities. Multiple nominations for Primetime Emmy Awards attest to the show's critical excellence and establish it as a dominant force in American comedy.
Rolling Stone published a list of the top 20 funniest and most memorable episodes of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia in 2015. The magazine noted that over the show's 10 seasons, it consistently found humor in the reprehensible antics of the proprietors of Paddy's Pub.
As a beloved cult phenomenon, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia has won over fans and carved out a unique place in television history. Currently working on its fifteenth season, the show now shares the record with The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet for having the longest run of any live-action sitcom in the annals of American television.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Locations
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a comedy gem that ingeniously uses its filming settings to bring its distinct style of humor to life. Unexpectedly, the show's filming takes place in both Philadelphia and Los Angeles, California, even though most of the action occurs in Philadelphia.
Fans all around the globe flock to the Starkman Building at 544 Mateo Street in Los Angeles to see the exterior shots of the series' renowned Paddy's Pub. The building is nothing special, yet it has become a must-visit destination for many.
Shot from Mac's (Rob McElhenney) car window, the opening titles famously display Philadelphia's lively cityscape, including the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Lincoln Financial Field, Penn's Landing, and more. Each episode begins with this montage, showcasing the city's cultural and historical diversity. Several other Philadelphia sites, like Independence Hall, the Italian Market, and the Jersey Shore, have been mentioned or shown throughout the series, strengthening the link between the program and its prominent location.
Scenes from "The Gang Gets New Wheels" and "A Cricket's Tale," respectively, have taken place at 635 Mateo Street and Los Angeles Center Studios in Los Angeles. CBS Studio Center has also been used for multiple street scenes to further enhance the show's vibrant metropolitan setting.
A trip to the filming locations of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia offers fans a unique opportunity to step into their favorite characters' world, exploring the actual and recreated landscapes that have hosted the gang's outrageous adventures. Whether wandering the historic streets of Philadelphia or discovering the show's footprint in Los Angeles, enthusiasts will immerse themselves in a journey as entertaining as the series itself.
Pub scenes in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Paddy’s Pub, 544 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
Paddy's Pub is the central hub for the gang's schemes, failures, and rare moments of camaraderie. The backstory of how Charlie, Mac, and Dennis (Glenn Howerton) came to own Paddy's Pub is a classic example of the show's blend of absurdity and serendipity. Initially setting their sights on purchasing a roller rink—a place steeped in nostalgia and youthful dreams—they are swayed into buying the pub instead due to a misunderstanding with Smokey (Frank Collison), the roller rink's manager.
This pivotal moment, detailed in the episode "The Gang Buys a Roller Rink," sets the stage for two decades of hijinks. Having invested the lion's share, Charlie was duped out of his rightful ownership by Mac and Dennis.
The iconic exterior shots of Paddy's Pub are brought to life at the Nate Starkman & Son Building, located in Los Angeles. This building, also known as the Pan Pacific Warehouse, is a historic structure dating back to 1908. Its three-story façade has been the backdrop for numerous film and photo shoots, making it a recognizable site for show fans. While the interior of Paddy's Pub is a set, the exterior of the Nate Starkman Building at 544 Mateo Street in Los Angeles provides a tangible connection to the beloved series.
Though the interior of the Nate Starkman Building might not be accessible to the public, admirers of the show can still appreciate the exterior and imagine themselves stepping into the dysfunctional yet endearing universe of Paddy's Pub.
To get there, fans can head to the Arts District of Los Angeles, where Mateo Street is situated. The area is accessible via public transportation or car, with street parking nearby.
Cafe gathering scenes in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Java Company, 852 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
During the episode "The Gang Gets Racist," we see Charlie, Mac, and Dennis conversing about Terrell (Malcolm Barrett), a friend Dee (Kaitlin Olson) met in her acting class. As the episode unfolds, Charlie brings Janell (Telisha Shaw) to the same venue to stir feelings of jealousy in the Waitress (Mary Elizabeth Ellis).
Continuing with the theme of using unconventional methods to achieve personal goals, another episode from the same season, "Charlie Has Cancer," delves into the dynamics between Charlie and the Waitress. Initially, Charlie confides in the Waitress about his health concerns. The plot thickens when Dennis intervenes, informing the Waitress about Charlie's condition.
These memorable scenes were filmed at the Philadelphia Java Company, located at 852 S 2nd St, Philadelphia. With its inviting atmosphere, this cozy coffee shop has become an iconic location for show fans. The Philadelphia Java Company was the backdrop for several cafe scenes in seasons one and three, becoming a piece of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia history.
Today, the Philadelphia Java Company continues to operate as a beloved coffee shop, offering a variety of coffee drinks, sandwiches, and small pastries. The cafe also supports the local art scene by allowing artists to display and sell their artwork within the space, adding a cultural dimension to its charm.
Guests can reach the destination by public transit or driving themselves, with on-street parking options accessible nearby. If you're coming from the city center, a drive along Pine Street will get you there in approximately 10 minutes.
The Waitress' house scene in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
710 Manton St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
A notable scene unfolds in the episode "Charlie Has Cancer" from season one, where Charlie, to spend time with the Waitress, picks her up for a date under the pretense of a dire health diagnosis. The plot thickens as Mac and Dennis later visit the exact location, attempting to retrieve $250, showcasing the lengths to which the gang members will go to unravel each other’s convoluted plans.
In season two, during the episode "Mac Bangs Dennis' Mom," another pivotal moment occurs outside the Waitress' house when Dennis, after taking the Waitress on a date, decides to leave abruptly following a call from Charlie.
The exterior scenes featuring the Waitress' house were filmed at 710 Manton Street, Philadelphia. While the residence itself is privately owned and not accessible to fans for tours or visits, the exterior of the house can still be observed from the street, allowing die-hard fans of the show to catch a glimpse of one of the series' frequently featured locations.
For those interested in seeing the exterior of the Waitress' house, visitors can easily reach 710 Manton Street by car or public transportation. Traveling from the city center, the destination can be reached in approximately 10 minutes by car. Additionally, it’s a 15-minute walk from the Philadelphia Java Company, with Washington Avenue serving as your primary route.
Mac and Dennis' house scene in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Anthony's Italian Coffee & Chocolate House, 903 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
A particularly notable scene unfolds in season two’s "Dennis and Dee Go on Welfare," where Sweet Dee (Kaitlin Olson) and Dennis decide to sign up for unemployment benefits in a misguided attempt at living the easy life.
The complexity of the characters' relationships is further explored in season six in "Mac Fights Gay Marriage." In this episode, Mac discovers Dennis's impulsive marriage, leading to a fallout that sees Dennis evict Mac from their shared apartment.
Amidst the chaos of their personal lives, Anthony's Italian Coffee & Chocolate House provides a backdrop for several café and Mac and Dennis' apartment scenes from season two to six. This real-life establishment, located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Italian Market, carries a rich history dating back to 1995 when Anthony transformed his grandfather's original store into the coffee house it is today.
Visitors can smoothly walk through Philadelphia's streets to reach this destination, taking in the city's vibrant cultural mosaic en route. It's a brief 10-minute drive from the city center via S Broad Street and Bainbridge Street.
Cricket goes to work for his family's company scene in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
635 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
In the episode "A Cricket's Tale" from season 12, Cricket (David Alan Hornsby) embarks on a journey that veers away from his usual misadventures with the gang at Paddy's Pub. Seeking redemption and perhaps a touch of normalcy, Cricket decides to work for his family's company, hoping for a second chance at life.
However, his aspirations quickly collide with harsh reality as he becomes a target for his brother Davy's scorn. Davy sees Cricket not as a brother seeking redemption but as a "street rat" and a "bum" unworthy of trust or respect.
The poignant scenes capturing Cricket's tumultuous attempt at a corporate comeback were filmed at 635 Mateo Street in Los Angeles. This location is steeped in history, initially constructed in 1929 by architect George H. Kelham as the Los Angeles headquarters for Hills Bros. Coffee. The building's design reflects the architectural sensibilities of its time, with a spacious warehouse on the bottom floor and office spaces occupying the top floor. While the site itself is not open to tourists, fans can still appreciate the exterior of this iconic location.
Situated in the vibrant Arts District of Los Angeles, 635 Mateo Street is accessible to those eager to glimpse a piece of television history. Visitors can reach this destination via public transportation options available in Los Angeles or by driving, with street parking typically available nearby. From the Paddy’s Pub site, it's a short five-minute walk.
Conclusion
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a testament to the brilliance that can emerge from the most unassuming premises. Despite their venal and borderline alcoholic tendencies, which in any other context might render them detestable, the gang manages to be irresistibly hilarious. Their antics, steeped in a blend of crass humor and biting wit, evoke the anarchic spirit reminiscent of The Young Ones while channeling the irreverent critique of social norms akin to Curb Your Enthusiasm.
The ensemble cast, consisting of five hilarious individuals, delivers with such authenticity and chemistry that it's difficult to single out any of them as the standout. They have so fully embodied their characters that the line between actor and role seems to blur, creating a seamless and immersive experience for the audience.
Filmed mainly in Philadelphia and Los Angeles, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia deftly uses its settings to anchor its absurd stories in a reality everyone can relate to. Filmed at the Starkman Building in Los Angeles and other Philadelphia sites, the legendary Paddy's Pub brings a real-life element to the show's scenery. Fans can feel more immersed in the gang's world thanks to these sites, intricately intertwined with the show.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia has proven that sitcoms can transcend genre conventions by continuing to be entertaining and thought-provoking for viewers for so long. Its courage to tackle taboo subjects with wit and insight has opened the door for more risk-taking shows on TV.
Visiting the real-world locations where these fantastical adventures take place can add another level of enjoyment and appreciation to the show, offering countless chuckles and thought-provoking moments.