Philly’s cocktail scene is ever-growing, from cozy corner neighborhood spots to upscale lounges mixing innovative, specialty drinks. To celebrate World Cocktail Day on Wednesday, here are some places we recommend.
Attico Rooftop Bar
219 S. Broad St.
Get a bird’s eye view of the city from atop the Cambria Hotel. Attico is making World Cocktail Day extra special by hosting a rooftop cocktail party. Drink Prohibition-era signature cocktails inspired by the 1920s. Dress to impress and enjoy an open bar and hors d’oeuvres.
Bar Palmina
1306 N. Front St.
More Philly restaurants and bars are offering zero-proof “mocktails,” but at this bar there is no alcohol at all. Bar Palmina is Philly’s only alcohol-free bar, with mocktails including a Moscow Mule (ginger, lime, coconut blossom nectar, and Topo Chico) and Philadelphia Thursday (ginger, lime, yuzu, grenadine, and Topo Chico).
Andra Hem
218 S. 16th St.
This Scandinavian-inspired cocktail bar is perfect for an intimate night out with its moody and chic interior. City Cast Philly producer Abby Fritz recommends the Fig Around, an olive oil-washed vodka with lemon, fig, and black pepper. For Milk Punch fans, try either Stay Grassy Philly (rum, creme de menthe, creme de cacao, and lime) or Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn (many rums, pineapple, apricot, coconut, citrus, and bitters).
Pub & Kitchen
1946 Lombard St.
This corner neighborhood tavern focuses on a farm-to-table menu, with seasonal offerings. City Cast Philly executive producer Matt Katz recommends the stiff P&K Old Fashioned (bourbon, demerara, bitters).
Caletta
1401 E. Susquehanna Ave.
Whether you’re a guest at Hotel Anna & Bel or just want to feel like you’re on vacation for an hour, Caletta offers a respite to all. The bar is known for well-balanced cocktails with light and breezy vibes, but also has drinks with savory flavor profiles. The menu now features Over the Garden Wall (a floral and bubbly drink) and Ulivo e Limone (perfect for martini fans). City Cast Philly newsletter editor Siani Colón recommends pairing your drink with one of the small plates, like the cheese and charcuterie.
La Chinesca
1036 Spring Garden St.
Your new favorite drink could be inside this former gas station. The Mexicali restaurant offers a Mexican-Chinese fusion menu with speciality cocktails that lean into its location: Spark Plug (arbol-infused mezcal, lime, and sugar), Fender Bender (mezcal, strawberry-rhubarb, mint, Aperol, and citrus), and Gas Guzzler (mezcal, Campari, orange grapefruit, and lime).
The Love
130 S. 18th St.
This Rittenhouse restaurant is a must-visit for brunch with an extensive beverage menu. City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri recommends the Nashville Sunrise, a bourbon and blood orange smash with Aperol, citrus, and honey.
🎧 Want even more recommendations? Check out our episode on aperitivo hour, the trend that’s replacing your typical happy hour.
