Ever wondered if Paddy’s Pub is a real place? You are not alone.
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has some of the most devoted fans on TV, and many want to know exactly where the show was filmed.
I have put together this guide to walk you through every major filming location, from the streets of South Philly to a surprising spot in Los Angeles.
By the end, you will know what is real, what is a set, and what you can actually visit in person.
The Show and Its Filming Locations
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is set in Philadelphia, but not everything is filmed there. Most interior scenes are shot in Los Angeles at professional studios.
However, several real Philadelphia streets and buildings were used for exterior shots across the series.
The show blends both cities to create its setting. Philadelphia gives it soul. Los Angeles makes production practical.
Together, they build the world fans know and love. If you are planning a visit or just curious, here is a full breakdown of where the show was actually filmed.
Philadelphia Filming Locations
The show is set in Philadelphia, and several real spots around the city were used for exterior shots throughout the series.
Paddy’s Pub
Paddy’s Pub is the heart of the show. Almost every episode revolves around this bar.
The exterior you see on screen was recreated from a real building in Los Angeles, not Philadelphia. The interior of the bar is a studio set.
That said, walking through the Arts District area of Philadelphia is still worth it for the atmosphere. It captures the spirit of what inspired the show.
Mac and Dennis’ Apartment
Address: Anthony’s Italian Coffee & Chocolate House, 903 S 9th St, Philadelphia
The exterior of Mac and Dennis’ apartment was filmed right above Anthony’s Italian Coffee & Chocolate House, sitting on one of Philadelphia’s most beloved stretches .
the Italian Market on South 9th Street. The building’s worn, authentic character fits the characters perfectly.
While you’re there, stop into Anthony’s for a gelato or cannoli and soak in the neighborhood energy that makes this filming location feel so genuinely Philly.
Dee’s Apartment
Address: 916 Montrose St, Philadelphia
This private rowhouse in South Philadelphia’s Passyunk Square neighborhood served as the exterior stand-in for Dee’s apartment following the iconic apartment fire storyline in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
The charming brick rowhouse blends right into the neighborhood, making it easy to see why it was chosen.
Feel free to walk past and snap a photo, but remember real people live here, so please be respectful and keep your distance..
The Stoop (“Dennis and Dee Go On Welfare”)
Address: 752 S 10th St, Philadelphia
This stoop appeared in just one episode, “Dennis and Dee Go On Welfare,” but fans still seek it out.
It is a private home on a residential South Philly block, so there is not much to do beyond a quick walk-by.
The good news is the stoop is fully visible from the street. It is a small detail, but for die-hard fans of the show, spotting it in person feels pretty satisfying.
Philadelphia Java Company
Address: 852 S 2nd St, Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Java Company served as the backdrop for several café scenes in the early seasons of the show.
It is a real, working café that fans have been visiting for years. If you are planning a filming location tour around South Philly, this is a great stop to add to your list.
Grab a coffee, take a photo, and then head to the next spot. It is a small but satisfying piece of the show.
The Waitress’ House
Address: 710 Manton St, Philadelphia
The Waitress is one of the most memorable recurring characters in the show. Her house exterior has appeared across multiple episodes throughout the series.
It sits on a quiet South Philly block and is easy to spot from the sidewalk. Since it is a private residence, keep a respectful distance when you visit.
It is a short walk from several other filming locations, making it a natural stop on any fan tour.
Italian Market and Surrounding Streets
The Italian Market on S 9th Street appears throughout the series. It is not just a backdrop. It is part of what makes the show feel genuinely Philadelphian.
As a fan, walk the full stretch of the market and look up at the apartments above the shops.
Take photos near the building used for Mac and Dennis’ apartment. Grab food from one of the vendors while you are there. It is a fun way to connect with the show.
Los Angeles Filming Locations
Most people do not know this, but a big portion of the show is actually filmed in Los Angeles, not Philadelphia.
The exterior of Paddy’s Pub was shot at the Nate Starkman & Son Building, 544 Mateo St, Los Angeles. Other scenes were filmed at Los Angeles Center Studios and CBS Studio Center.
The interiors of Paddy’s Pub and the apartments are all studio sets built in Los Angeles. This is common for TV productions.
It is cheaper and more practical to film most of a show in LA while using select Philadelphia locations to keep the setting grounded.
Why Philly Locations Are Important
The real Philadelphia locations give the show its identity and keep fans connected to the city it claims as home.
Using real streets and buildings from South Philly adds a layer of authenticity that a purely LA-based production would not have.
For fans, these locations matter because they make the world of the show feel real, give you something tangible to visit, and spark conversations in the fan community.
Philadelphia locals especially appreciate seeing their city represented, even in a show that pokes fun at it constantly.
Conclusion
I have always loved how It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia makes the city feel like a real character, not just a backdrop.
If you are planning a fan trip to South Philly or just curious about where your favorite scenes were shot, I hope this guide helped.
Go walk those streets, grab a coffee at Philadelphia Java Company, and snap a photo outside the Italian Market. It hits differently when you are standing there in real life.
Drop a comment below and tell me which location you want to visit first!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paddy’s Pub a real bar in Philadelphia?
No. The exterior was filmed in Los Angeles, and the interior is a studio set.
Can fans visit the filming locations in Philadelphia?
Yes, most are on public streets. Private residences should only be viewed from the sidewalk.
Where is the Italian Market featured in the show?
On S 9th Street in South Philadelphia, also where Mac and Dennis’ apartment exterior was filmed.
Is the whole show filmed in Los Angeles?
Most interiors are filmed in LA. Select exterior shots were filmed in Philadelphia.
How many real Philadelphia locations appear in the show?
At least six, mostly concentrated in South Philadelphia.
