Bensalem Township CC
Bensalem, PA (about a half hour north of Philly)
1960, William Gordon
Fat Guy Notes: The name makes it sound private, but this is just a typical public muni that's trying to make itself sound upscale to generate wedding and event revenue. I've never played it, but some research reveals that this is a typical 1960's parkland design with minimal bunkering that lacks any semblance of imagination, but probably is a decent little value with weekend greens fees under $50. It's only 6,108 yards with a 69.0 rating and 123 slope from the tips.
Best Bar Nearby: I have family that lives near here, and they gave me some good recommendations on some cool nearby spots. For an upscale bar, head for the Hulmeville Inn (www.hulmevilleinn.com). For a sportsbar, the best options around include adult arcade Dave & Buster's (1995 Franklin Mills Circle, www.daveandbusters.com), Miller's Ale House (www.millersalehouse.com, 2250 E Lincoln Hwy, Langhorne) for good beer specials, or the numerous big screens at the local Buffalo Wild Wings (2763 E Lincoln Hwy, Langhorne). As a wing aficianoado I'm not a big fan of their wings, but my buddy Norm recommends their ribs as surprisingly good. For a good neighborhood Irish bar, head for Irish Rover (28 W Lincoln Hwy, Penndel). Michael's Cafe (Bensalem, www.michaelscafebensalem.com) is a hotspot for middle-aged couples and singles, with six bars and a hot dance floor.
There are also a few Gentlemen's clubs in the area, including Tattletale's (www.clubtattletales.com, 6900 New Falls Rd, Levittown), Club Risque (3025 Veterans Hwy, Bristol), and local's joint Oakford Inn (www.theoakfordinn.com) with no cover but pricey drinks, and a few hot bartenders.
Gamblers will love nearby PARX Casino (www.parxcasino.com), featuring Jax Ultralounge for flashy cocktails and plasmas galore, and a casino-center bar named 360 for getting your groove on. For less casino pretense, hit Philly fave Chickie & Pete's sports bar for their signature crab fries and buffalo chicken fingers, Foodies for cheesesteaks, burgers, and pizza, or scale it up at steakhouse Parx Grill (entree's $18-$38 with $5 ala carte sides). Good steaks, and be sure to order the creme brulee cheesecake for dessert.
Where To Grub: For a good local upper-midscale chain, head for J.B. Dawson's (www.jbdawsons.com, Langhorne) for steak, ribs, and signature cocktails. If you're on a budget, head for local diner chain Nifty Fifties (2555 Street Rd, www.niftyfifties.com). For lunch, hit local chain Lee's Hoagie House (1871 Street Road, www.leeshoagiehouse.com), Fat Guy's Best Hoagie in Philly due to their quality meats and signature garlic-infused oil. There's also a ton of chain options along local commercial routes Roosevelt Boulevard and Street Road, including Texas Roadhouse, Outback, and Carrabba's among others.