Philter is one of the anchors of Sydenham Road's brewery strip, a relaxed taproom pouring its own beers a few steps from the brewing tanks. The flagship XPA made the brewery's name, and the rotating taps lean toward bright, sessionable styles rather than palate-wrecking experiments. It is an easy first or last stop on a walk along the Marrickville mile.
The space is the standard Inner West formula done well — roller doors open to the street, communal tables, a food truck or two parked outside on busy afternoons. Weekends are lively but rarely overwhelming.