50 Best Cocktail Bars in Philadelphia

“The Ranstead Room offers a nice atmosphere, with an enchanting ambiance and exquisite drinks. The bartender's amazing energy contributes to the overall great vibe of the place. It is recommended to arrive early due to potential long wait times. The Ranstead Room has a speakeasy feel with good decor and solid drinks, although the loud music playing at high volumes can detract from the experience. The Old Fashion #2 and Margarita #2 are standout drink choices. Max is mentioned for providing excellent customer service. El Rey, located next door, is a good option while waiting.“

“The Good King Tavern offers a low key French Bistro experience with a top-notch bar. The popular Socca dish might take a while to make, so order early. With outstanding drink options, a great wine list, and reasonable prices, it's a perfect mix of upscale and casual. Dishes like steak tartar with fries and complex gnocchi are amazing, with perfect scallops and mussels. The friendly service and fantastic food make it a must-visit spot that guests can't wait to return to.“

“R&D Cocktail Bar offers great cocktails and service, with a young and cool crowd. The absence of printed menus might be inconvenient for some, and the music genres are varied. The staff is welcoming and attentive, making non-regulars feel comfortable. While some found the cocktails just okay, the intimate ambiance, chill vibe, and attentive bartenders make it a great spot to catch up with friends.“

“Via Locusta offers impeccable service and delicious food. The agnolotti is recommended, changing seasonally, while the Caio e Pepe pasta is simple but popular and well-executed. The branzino is also excellent. Some diners prefer the outdoor seating due to noise levels inside. With nice drink specials and friendly service, it's a favorite spot for many Italian food enthusiasts.“

“Condesa restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience with its knowledgeable and charismatic staff. The menu features inventive, well-executed Mexican cuisine with plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions. The outdoor patio is equipped with heaters and can be enclosed for comfort, while the indoor space is majority wheelchair accessible. Although the sidewalk entrance can be challenging for wheelchair users, the restaurant's accessible bathroom and overall amenities make it a great choice for all.“

“Irwin's is a great experience with a cool vibe, amazing drinks, and shareable mains. The staff, including the founder Michael, are knowledgeable about the food and happy to share. The ambiance and decor are perfect for a night out. While the portions may be small for the price, the ricotta toast and blue fin bucatini special come highly recommended. The restaurant itself is beautiful, but some diners found the service lacking, with long waits and unenthusiastic servers. Despite this, Irwin's offers a unique dining experience with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.“

“Manatawny Still Works East Passyunk Tasting Room offers nice cocktails made with locally distilled spirits in a dive bar atmosphere. The friendly staff and good clientele make for a welcoming experience. Customers can purchase bottles to take home and continue sampling. The creative cocktails, such as the Gold Dust Woman and Bela Lugosi's Dead, are a hit with visitors looking for upscale drinks. The bartenders are fun and accommodating, creating a lively atmosphere. The bar plays kickass '80s playlists, adding to the overall vibe. The flight option allows guests to try different flagship spirits like white whiskey, four grain, and apple and honey whiskey. The whiskey offerings are well-balanced and unique, with the port barrel aged whiskey standing out as a must-try. Overall, Manatawny Still Works East Passyunk Tasting Room is a wholesome spot with excellent products and knowledgeable staff, perfect for a memorable night out.“

“Hop Sing Laundromat is a must-visit cocktail bar in the city, known for its amazing drinks and cozy ambiance. With a variety of vegetarian options available, visitors can enjoy delicious cocktails like the Happy Buddha in a unique, bygone era setting. The thoughtful owner and personable service make it a truly special and immersive experience, perfect for a relaxing escape.“

“Middle Child Clubhouse is a restaurant known for its delicious sandwiches and key lime pie. The key lime pie is a must-try, even for those who don't typically enjoy it. The atmosphere is laid-back and vintage, with a hip ambiance that is perfect for working or relaxing with friends. The staff is helpful and accommodating, offering excellent recommendations. The pancakes are also a popular choice, especially when topped with maple syrup. Prices are reasonable, although some may find them on the expensive side. Parking can be a challenge, especially in the evenings.“

“Blue Corn Restaurant and Bar offers bomb Mexican food in Philly, with a variety of authentic dishes that exceed expectations. The menu includes options like nachos and quesadillas with unique ingredients like squash blossom. The margaritas are a highlight, with many flavors to choose from. While the guacamole could use more seasoning, the cactus/nopal dish was delicious. The prices are fair, but be aware that it is cash only, with an ATM available. The casual ambiance makes it perfect for catching up with friends over drinks and tasty Mexican fare.“

“Wm. Mulherin’s Sons offers fantastic food like the Spicy Jawns pizza and brocolini, served with great service on a lovely patio. The menu is seasonal, making it friendly and thoughtful. Visitors can enjoy intricate and beautiful dishes with friends. The brunch experience is pleasant, with quick service and unique twists on classic dishes like deviled eggs with tuna. The Hair of the Dog drink, an espresso martini, is delicious and served with care. While some minor mishaps can occur, the overall experience is enjoyable and worth recommending, especially if you're in the Fishtown area. Free parking is available on Sundays.“

“Bing Bing Dim Sum is a popular spot that attracts a crowd, especially on busy nights. Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere and delicious food. The menu may be on the smaller side, but the dishes are well-seasoned and made with care. The cheesesteak bao buns are a must-try, with a soft and crunchy texture and flavorful filling. Other standouts include the chicken wontons, green fire cocktail, and shrimp dumplings. While the portion sizes may be smaller than expected, the prices may be higher than average. Overall, Bing Bing Dim Sum is a great spot to try a variety of dishes and enjoy a fun dining experience.“

“MilkBoy South Street is a favorite spot for great bar food, excellent drinks, and a cool atmosphere. The friendly staff and delicious menu items, like the cheese steak with garlic sauce and fried green beans, make it a perfect spot to meet new people and explore the neighborhood.“

“Cantina “Calaca” Feliz in Philadelphia's Fairmount area is a vibrant restaurant with a contemporary twist on Mexican cuisine. Known for its high-quality ingredients and flavorful dishes like the "Esquites" Guacamole and Korean Steak Tacos, it offers a memorable dining experience. The menu features items like pork Al pastor tacos and Smothered Burrito, showcasing culinary excellence. The atmosphere is bustling and fun, with friendly staff making it a neighborhood gem where food and culture come together seamlessly.“

“Sancho Pistola's serves flavorful and delicious dishes, including corn on the cob, cheesesteak empanadas, chicken tinga burritos, and carne asada burritos. The restaurant offers fun guacamole options, like tuna and pistachio, and has a great happy hour deal on margarita pitchers. With nice service and outdoor seating, it's a great spot to enjoy a meal. Note: the indoor seating is all high tops, and the staff may not be accustomed to serving families with young children.“

“Mish Mish is a restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a wonderful space, great lighting, and a lively playlist. The service is also outstanding, with friendly and knowledgeable staff, including Becca and Jax. The menu offers creative and fun options, with beautifully presented plates. The food is a highlight, with unique and tasty dishes that play with textures and flavors. Some standout options include the tuna and salmon, while the fried cheese is a savory treat. The fried chicken is decent, but not exceptional. The restaurant also offers a range of drinks, including unique cocktails like the cherry spritz and artichoke. While some dishes may be pricier than others, the overall experience is worth it. Mish Mish is a great spot to visit, but not necessarily worth going out of your way for.“

“Juno is a restaurant that offers a memorable dining experience. The management and staff are praised for their responsiveness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. The venue is suitable for large events, with a scenic deck area and festive decor. The menu features a variety of dishes, including chicken quesadillas, poblano dishes, and brunch options, all known for their generous portions. The restaurant also offers a selection of beverages, such as margaritas and machaladas. Despite occasional slow service due to staffing, guests have consistently positive experiences, making it a recommended spot for dining.“

“Next of Kin is a cocktail bar known for its lively atmosphere and solid service. The bar offers delicious drinks, including an espresso martini, whiskey sour, and a refreshing gin drink. The bartenders are praised for their attentiveness, friendliness, and mixology skills. Standout drinks include the French 75 and a raspberry-gin drink. The bar has a quaint and fun ambiance, and it's not uncommon for the bouncer to assist in finding seating. A great spot for a night out.“

“Fishtown Social is a charming neighborhood spot known for its eclectic wine selection and delectable small plates. The knowledgeable and friendly staff provide excellent recommendations, making it a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and soak in the lively ambiance. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy afternoon, Fishtown Social offers a delightful experience, with bonus points when they have fresh oysters on the menu.“

“SIN Philadelphia is a vibrant spot for a night out with friends or a date. The cocktails are delicious, and the menu offers something for everyone at a fair price. While the service and atmosphere are lively and welcoming, the food is a mixed bag. Some dishes, such as the steak and chicken parm, may be hit or miss, while others, like the lobster agnolotti, are heavy-handed with butter. However, the drinks are a highlight, and the non-alcoholic versions are also excellent. With great service and a chic atmosphere, SIN Philadelphia is a great spot for a special occasion or a treat.“

“Harper's Garden is a charming restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The service is impeccable, with attentive and friendly staff, including servers like Nick and Katie who provide excellent recommendations. The food is amazingly tasty, with fresh ingredients and dishes that are both delicious and well-presented. The outdoor seating area is a lovely spot to enjoy a meal, and the atmosphere is relaxing and chill. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, Harper's Garden is a great choice. Be sure to try the Field Greens salad and don't miss the butter cake, which is a must-try.“

“Kiddo is a must-visit for foodies, offering amazing dishes like St Elizabeth's Dilemma cocktail, duck, pork chop, risotto, and mushroom & egg appetizer. The service is great, with friendly staff and lovely bartenders who love what they do. Every item on the seasonally-rotating menu is fantastic, making it the go-to place for delicious food and drinks in a pleasant atmosphere.“

“Writer's Block Rehab is a cozy and creative cocktail lounge located in the heart of Philadelphia. With its unique literary theme, it offers a tranquil escape for those looking to unwind. The lounge spans three floors, each with its own ambiance, including a comfortable "Library" on the second floor for a more intimate experience. Their menu features an array of inventive drinks, like the turmeric pisco sour and the arugula martini, crafted to inspire and delight. Whether you're seeking a quiet corner to ponder over prose or a lively spot to share stories with friends, Writer's Block Rehab is the perfect setting for an evening of relaxation and literary indulgence.“

“Post Haste is a restaurant known for its delicious and well-thought-out food and creative cocktails. Standout dishes include the aged duck breast, pork belly, and gnocchi. The pearnicillin cocktail is particularly popular. While the food is quite good, some may find the bar atmosphere, which features loud music, to be an odd pairing with the high-quality meals. Despite this, Post Haste is widely regarded as a destination for delicious food and drinks.“

“Andra Hem offers fabulous cocktails and excellent service. The vegan meatballs and olives are delicious, with lots of vegan choices available. The drinks are unique and well crafted, making it a great place to relax. Wines and bourbons are few but exceptional. An absolute must-visit!“

“BAR 1010 offers great food, including pizzas and salads, at reasonable prices with good portions. The atmosphere is cozy and warm, with the option for dimmed lighting to enhance the ambiance. The service is outstanding, with friendly and attentive staff, including Allan, who handled the busy restaurant with ease.“

“a.bar is a quaint, intimate spot in center city with a lively, upscale atmosphere. The staff is lovely and attentive, ensuring guests feel comfortable and well taken care of. Creative cocktails are reasonably priced and expertly crafted with attention to detail. The menu offers yummy small plates, and guests can also order food from a.kitchen next door. Despite being busy and sometimes loud, a.bar is a popular spot for after-work crowds and is definitely worth a visit.“

“Leda's Cocktail Lounge is a welcoming spot with a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff. The bar serves well-made cocktails, and while mocktails come at a premium price, they are sweetly satisfying. Although there was a slight mishap with a strawberry margarita order, the drink was still enjoyable. Food options are available, and the lounge hosts salsa dancing events. The lounge is wheelchair accessible and offers a selection of music to suit various tastes.“

“Insatiable is a charming neighborhood gem offering a pleasant dining experience. The staff is friendly and attentive, making guests feel at ease. The menu features a range of options, including solid dishes like French Onion Soup Dumplings and steak. The cocktails are creative, with standouts like the Drunk Text. Small plates, such as dumplings, mushrooms in puff pastry, and whipped eggplant, are also well-received. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a carefully curated decor. With its fair prices and reasonable prices, Insatiable is a great addition to the neighborhood.“

“1 Tippling Place is a stylish cocktail bar with a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. Located conveniently, this spot offers a great selection of drinks, including housemade syrup options. The eclectic decor, blending modern and vintage elements, sets a warm and inviting tone for visitors. Known for its extensive whiskey collection, this place also boasts expert bartenders who can recommend the perfect drink for you. The Dragon's Tear cocktail may be on the sweeter side, but the Lavender 75 offers a refreshing and light option. With prompt service and a willingness to cater to your preferences, the wait staff adds to the overall positive experience at 1 Tippling Place.“

“P. J. Clarke's At The Curtis offers a great location and friendly service, with kids welcome. The menu features a range of dishes, including mac and cheese, pretzels, and a lobster roll, which received high praise. However, some guests have reported inconsistent food quality, with some dishes being overpriced and underwhelming. The drinks menu, including Bloody Marys and Smokey Old Fashioneds, is a highlight.“

“Hi-Lo Taco Co. is a restaurant that offers great service and delicious tacos. They have a happy hour almost every day from 4-6pm, with a variety of taco options such as the smash burger taco, pineapple pork taco, fish bowl, and the Tuesday special - surf and turf. Other menu items include smoked wings, chips with guacamole, queso, and salsa, as well as a Hi Lo Silver Margarita. The restaurant is child-friendly, offering a baby sampler for free. The prices are reasonable, and the staff is attentive, fun, and helpful. Located near the Walnut St. Theatre, it is a great place for a pre-show dinner.“

“Tattooed Mom is a cool, welcoming spot in Philly with lots of character. The menu offers vegetarian options and the chicken sandwich and fries are a hit. The pickletini is a favorite drink, and the bartenders are friendly. It's a great place to hang out, play pool, and enjoy the vibe with good music.“

“ALICE offers a phenomenal brunch experience with dishes like corn pancakes, set in a cozy atmosphere. While service can be slow, the food is incredible, and cocktails are fabulous. This down-to-earth gem is a must-try, with many reasons to plan a return visit.“

“Jerry's Bar is a popular spot for brunch, offering a variety of dishes to suit different tastes. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, with friendly and attentive staff. Reviewers have praised the quality of the food, with highlights including the loaded home fries, banana foster French toast, and chicken & waffles. While some found the prices to be a bit steep for the portion size, the experience was made up for by the welcoming atmosphere. With its great service, delicious food, and lively vibe, Jerry's Bar is a great spot to visit for brunch, especially on special occasions like Mother's Day.“

“Four Humours offers outstanding and original cocktails, with personalized recommendations from the friendly bartenders. The menu includes a nice selection of whiskey that sometimes rotates, along with small snacks like a cheese board and Bloody Mary deviled eggs. The cozy space is perfect for sitting at the bar and enjoying a great conversation with the helpful staff.“

“Redcrest Kitchen is a standout eatery that serves up delicious dishes in a chill atmosphere. The menu boasts tender mussels, slow-cooked pork chops, braised beef short ribs, and roasted salmon, all of which are cooked to perfection. The staff is super friendly and attentive, making sure guests have everything they need. The restaurant's exceptional service extends beyond the meal, with staff willing to lend a helping hand even after the bill is paid. With a children's menu available, Redcrest Kitchen is a great spot for families. Be sure to try the highly-recommended mussels and salmon, and don't miss the mouth-watering biscuit that accompanies the fried chicken sandwich. While the fries could use some improvement, the overall experience at Redcrest Kitchen is unforgettable.“

“The Continental Mid-town offers a pleasant ambiance with 1960s diner vibes and shareable dishes. The food, including the brussel sprouts and Korean fried chicken, is very good. The service can be rushed, but the staff is attentive to dietary requirements and provides a generally positive dining experience.“

“Yards Brewing Company is a great spot to catch a sports game or hang out with a big group. They offer a variety of beers, including light beers and a nitro stout. The bar is spacious, with plenty of seating and the option to make reservations. The staff is friendly and attentive, with one reviewer praising the bartender, Connor, for his excellent service. The beer selection is impressive, with around 8 taps featuring a range of styles, including English Mild and English Porter. Prices are reasonable, with 20oz pours available for $10. The menu also includes solid food options, such as hot dogs and chips. Overall, Yards Brewing Company is a great choice for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere and a good beer selection.“

“Bánh Mì and Bottles is a Vietnamese restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The menu features mouthwatering dishes such as bhan mi chicken, bhan mi brisket, and Beef Pho with roasted bone marrow. The restaurant also boasts a fantastic selection of creative and refreshing drinks, perfect for happy hour. The service is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff. Whether you're looking for a date night or a casual gathering, Bánh Mì and Bottles is a fantastic choice.“

“La Llorona Cantina Mexicana offers a great value with filling food at a great price during happy hour. The service is attentive and friendly, with wheelchair accessibility ensured. Try the happy hour tacos, shrimp tacos, and al pastor nachos, paired with a passion fruit margarita, expertly crafted by the skilled bartenders.“

“Vista Peru is an authentic Peruvian restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The restaurant has a great vibe, and the food is described as delicious and flavorful. Customers have praised the restaurant's Peruvian cuisine, with highlights including the arroz chaufa de lomo a lo pobre, Pulpo a la parrilla, and Pollo a la Braza. The Pargo a la plancha, while decent, had more bones than expected. Customers have enjoyed the lively atmosphere, where they even had the chance to dance to a bachata song. The restaurant is recommended for those seeking a taste of Peruvian cuisine, with the Pisco Sour and Chicha Morada as popular drink options.“

“Martha is a perfect spot for an intimate wedding or a casual night out in East Kensington. The outdoor patio is a highlight, rain or shine, making it a great summer destination. The restaurant offers a creative menu with items like hoagies and BBQ from ZigZag. The service is top-notch, with attentive staff like Alyssa providing excellent service. The rotating cocktail menu is a must-try, adding to the great vibes of the place. Overall, Martha offers a stellar experience with delicious food and unbeatable service, making it a neighborhood favorite.“

“Malbec Argentine Steakhouse serves great beef, delicious shrimp empanadas, and yummy provoleta. The restaurant offers exceptionally delicious drinks, including one with guava foam, and has clearly marked gluten-free options. The steaks are cooked to request, and the servers are friendly. It's a great spot for a good experience, with a lively atmosphere and paid parking nearby.“

“The Trestle Inn is a historic venue with a cozy and vibey atmosphere, frozen in time. Known for its great music, beverages, and overall vibe, this spot is a go-to for a fun night out with friends. The go-go dancers and all-vinyl DJ add to the charm, making it a special place to enjoy drinks and dance. With themed nights like David Bowie Night drawing in crowds, the Trestle Inn can get busy, but the energetic atmosphere and fantastic shows keep guests entertained. Don't miss their Thursday happy hour for a taste of what this unique spot has to offer!“

“Ramen Yakitori + Bar offers delicious and fresh food, especially their chicken karagee and ramen. The restaurant has a pleasant ambiance with appropriate music volume. The service is commendable, and they package take-out orders carefully, keeping the broth and chicken separate from the noodles. Despite not serving Bok choy, the ramen remains a satisfying meal.“

“Booker's Restaurant & Bar in West Philadelphia is a standout dining destination. Known for its stellar service and lively atmosphere, the restaurant offers a wide-ranging menu filled with comfort food elevated to an art form. The Southern fried chicken, creamy grits with shrimp, and cheesecake French toast are among the popular dishes. The burger with cherry peppers and caramelized onions is another customer favorite. During happy hour, enjoy $6 cocktails and fried chicken sliders. For the evening, indulge in heartwarming dishes like jerk oxtail, seafood mac and cheese, and creole vegan jambalaya. A festive and memorable dining experience, Booker's Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit in Philadelphia.“

“VENU is a great spot to relax and socialize. The atmosphere is lively, with a nice size area to hang out. The food is good, and the drinks are great. The staff is friendly and attentive, with exceptional service. It's a great place for a night out with friends, a date, or a casual gathering.“

“Renata's Kitchen is a Mediterranean restaurant located near the University City area in Philadelphia. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including chicken shawarma, "A Tale of 2 Eggs" breakfast platter, and chicken mohammar. The chicken mohammar and friend haloumi are particularly praised for their taste. The restaurant also offers non-alcoholic drinks, such as Miriam's Limonana (mint and cucumber infused lemonade). The restaurant has a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. The outdoor area is described as particularly pleasant. The staff is noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, with a server named Ris receiving special mention for her excellent service. However, there have been some issues with food temperature, with some customers reporting that their food arrived cold. The restaurant's close proximity to Penn Medical Center makes it a convenient option for those in the area. The restaurant also offers a selection of cocktails and mocktails. The restaurant has a happy hour promotion for half-price margaritas, although there seems to be some confusion over the validity of the offer throughout the day. Renata's Kitchen is located near the SEPTA Trolley Station, making it easily accessible for those using public transportation. Street parking can be found a few blocks away in the Spruce Hill neighborhood. However, the walk from the parking area to the restaurant may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to uneven sidewalks and lack of crosswalk signals.“

“Wolf Burger is a great spot to satisfy your burger cravings. The menu offers a variety of elevated bar food options, including the massive Wolf Burger, which is juicy and well-seasoned. The restaurant has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, with awesome bartenders who love the neighborhood and bring great vibes. Catch a game on TV and enjoy a good conversation at the bar.“