As we all know, Philadelphia is filled with local breweries and tap houses to give beer drinkers a place to booze while cheering on the ever hopeful Philadelphia sports teams. Yet, for those of us who would rather sip on a cocktail than a cold draft beer, it can be harder to find a spot to drink that isn’t a pub or a beer garden. So, to help all of you wine-loving, whiskey-sipping, champagne-toasting Philadelphians out there, here’s a list of the best places to drink in Philly for the times when a beer just isn’t going to cut it.
Whiskey Bars
Time
1315 Sansom St.
If you’re looking for a good whiskey selection, head to Time on Sansom Street. Time offers 90+ whiskey choices and features a live band on Fridays and Saturdays that plays smooth, sophisticated jazz. The bar is the perfect mix of rustic and contemporary, and it’s a great place to visit when you want to add a touch of elegance to your night. Plus, If you’re looking to take it a step further, their menu also features several different types of absinthe. Let’s get groovy.
Fiume
229 S 45th St
Fiume has been called one of the best kept secrets in West Philly. Atop a restaurant, this hipster joint hosts stellar bluegrass musicians for guests to listen to while enjoying a selection from their tasty, whiskey selection. Their colorful chalkboard list of craft beers is extensive, but don’t let that make you forget about their noteworthy, cocktail menu. Need more reason to love Fiume? They even offered Philadelphians free whiskey shots after Donald Trump was elected. Cheers to that.
Cocktail Bars
Hop Sing Laundromat
1029 Race St
Hop Sing Laundromat, a hidden gem in Chinatown serves up some of the best cocktails in Philly and has been named one of the coolest bars in the U.S. Its bold, speakeasy-styled atmosphere is matched by the striking list of alcohol featuring 1,000+ bottles. Leave the cellphones and cameras at home because this well-kept secret is all about the discreet and delectable drinking experience.
Ranstead Room
2013 Ranstead St.
Ranstead Room in Rittenhouse serves a mad cocktail. Slide in one of their leather booths and imbibe on prohibition-style drinks created by their fabulous mixologists. Not sure what to order? Tell them what you like, and these crafty alcohol gurus will whip you up an original creation filled with your favorites. In addition to their extensive cocktail lists, they also offer Cocktail Classes so that you can become your own mixologist at home!
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Wine Bars
Tria
4 locations, including Tria Cafe Rittenhouse, Wash West, and Fitler Square and Tria Taproom
Tria Taproom (2005 Walnut Street) is one of the best spots to get a newly-trendy glass of wine on tap featuring custom staff blends from local sources. Tria prides themselves in their kegged wine, which gives their guests a fresher and crisper sip than bottled wine. Flip through their extensive, reasonably priced wine list on their iPad menus that describe the origin and characteristics of each pour. Sleek wooden booths and tables modernize the restaurant, making it a beautiful environment to relax after a long day.
Root
1206 Frankford Ave
If you’re looking for a glass of wine from some of the best wine regions in the U.S., try Root in Fishtown. The wine selection is diverse and simply delightful. This upscale spot is located along Frankford Ave. in Fishtown and its large windows give its guests a look out to the busy streets of the city. Seated in the restaurant, you’ll take a trip back in time from its timeless, sleek decor characterized by tile floors, teal seats and suave wooden accents.
Cider & Holiday
Cinder Bar
1500 Locust Street
If you’re a fan of ciders and sours, you need to make the trip to the new Cinder Bar that has mastered the sours, goses, wild ales and ciders. Cinder opened in 2016 and was created by Teddy Sourias, the restaurateur behind Bru Craft & Wurst, Finn McCools Ale House and U-Bahn. It’s rustic atmosphere and tasty drink menu is the perfect addition to a wintry day in the city.
Skygarten
1717 Arch Street, 51st Floor
We know what you’re thinking– how did one of Philly’s most popular beer gardens make this list? But just wait. This holiday season, Skygarten is offering its guests a lot more than a cold draft beer. Through the holidays, they will serve hot chocolate mixed with your choice of Bourbon Cream, Fireball or Peppermint Schnapps, topped with marshmallows or whipped cream. It’s the perfect holiday drink to give you that warm fuzzy feeling. Plus, let’s not forget about the amazing view.
Margaritas & Mojitos
Lolita
106 S 13th St
Leave the sombrero at home because this Mexican spot is not your average, commercialized Mexican joint. Their margaritas are original, fresh and yummy. The restaurant has intimate seating and an awesome 16-seat chef’s counter bar. If you love Barbuzzo, you will love this sister restaurant. To enhance your experience even more, get the guac. You won’t regret it.
Mission Taqueria
1516 Sansom St
If you’re looking for a good marg, look no further than the newly opened Mission Taqueria in Center City. The margaritas are made with fresh juices, but it’s really the aesthetic that sets this Mexican restaurant apart. The restaurant is filled with natural light that enter through large windows looking out to a beautiful, vibrant outdoor courtyard. Bright tiles, neon colors, and flourishing plants take over the atmosphere, making you feel closer and closer to Mexico with each sip.
What’s your favorite spot to go to for drinks and not beer? Let us know in the comments!
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