Entry Requires Customers to Be at Least 25 Years Old

The iconic dive bar Dirty Franks, located at 347 S. 13th St. in Philadelphia, has implemented a new entry policy. Customers must now be at least 25 years old to enter the establishment. This change, enforced about two weeks ago, comes in response to a surge in underage patrons attempting to use fake IDs.

New Entry Requirement for Dirty Franks

Jody Sweitzer, owner of Dirty Franks, expressed concern over the increasing frequency of sophisticated fake IDs. She noted that one fake ID featuring a photo of a 24-year-old Ben Franklin was particularly troubling. The shift in age policy aims to cushion the bar from potential risks associated with underage drinking and disruptive behavior.

Reasons Behind the Policy Change

• Rising use of fake IDs by underage customers.
• Concerns over patrons vaping and bringing alcohol into the bar.
• Efforts to maintain a comfortable environment for regulars.

Sweitzer highlighted that although the number of young patrons had initially boosted sales, the quality of the experience diminished. This prompted her to reach out to the Tavern Association to explore the possibility of instituting an age limit. After confirming that she could set house rules, the fake ID incident catalyzed her decision.

Patron Reactions

The response to the new policy has been mixed. Younger patrons, like Nate Weinberg, a recent Temple University graduate, expressed confusion and disappointment. “I know a lot of people are not happy,” he remarked, noting that he never witnessed any issues during his visits.

Conversely, many long-time Dirty Franks customers welcomed the decision. Regulars appreciate the newfound space in the bar, enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere. Lance Saunders, a 41-year-old patron, voiced strong support for the changes, stating, “I appreciate whatever Jody and her team has to do to make the staff and valued regulars feel welcome.”

Future Prospects for Dirty Franks

The age policy is described as temporary. Sweitzer plans to revert to the standard 21-and-over rule once a reliable system for verifying IDs is established. She is actively searching for advanced technology that can detect counterfeit identification. Until then, Dirty Franks remains dedicated to creating a community atmosphere for its loyal clientele while addressing the challenges posed by underage patrons.