Rebecca DavisFinding the best cocktail bar in Philadelphia can really elevate your weekend plans or add a fun twist to your usual after-work routine.
Whether you’re hunting for innovative craft drinks or a relaxed, upscale space to hang out, Philly’s vibrant nightlife scene has plenty of incredible spots to explore.
A fantastic night out might start with a memorable dinner at a top-rated local restaurant or a quick stop for fresh sushi, but the absolute best part of the evening is unwinding in a cozy lounge with a perfectly mixed drink in hand.
To help you plan your next outing, here are some of the absolute best spots in the city!
How much does a cocktail bar cost in Philadelphia?
Cocktail prices in Philadelphia typically range from $12 to $18 for standard drinks, while premium craft cocktails and private bar experiences can cost significantly more depending on the venue and event setup.
| Service Type | Average Cost |
| Standard Cocktails | $12 – $18 |
| Premium Craft Drinks | $20+ |
| Private Event Rentals | $35 – $1,500+ per hour |
1. Andra Hem
Website: https://www.andrahem.com/
Address: 218 South 16th St.
Contact: (215) 545-0823
Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Thursday – Saturday 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Finding a cocktail bar that feels different right away isn’t easy, but Andra Hem in Philadelphia pulls it off. This Scandinavian-inspired lounge feels more like a cozy townhouse than your usual city bar.
The drinks lean heavily into Nordic flavors, especially aquavit cocktails, which makes the menu stand out from the usual choices.
When I visited recently, I loved how calm and comfortable the place felt. It’s perfect for slow conversations and relaxed evenings. The atmosphere makes you want to stay longer and enjoy your time.
The only downside is that service can get slow when it’s busy later in the evening, so you might wait longer for drink refills.
Even so, the bar’s unique style alone makes it worth checking out.
Customer Reviews
All of the drinks we tried were fantastic
We visited Andra Hem on a busy weekday and got to enjoy their first floor bar area. Had a great time! The space was intimate and dimly lit, with a much more inventive cocktail menu than I anticipated. All of the drinks we tried were fantastic, strong, and actually worth their price tag. Highly recommend others visit if they’re looking for a chill cocktail bar!
- Jeremy Yowell | Google Review
Very diverse selection of drinks
While making my reservation at a nearby restaurant, I stumbled upon this cocktail bar. We were seated efficiently and given time to look through the very diverse selection of drinks. Slightly overwhelmed at first but the bartender gave us a few great recommendations! We opted for 2 of the recommended drinks and we were definitely impressed!
- Nick Ragni | Google Review
2. The Ranstead Room
Website: https://ransteadroom.com/
Address: 2013 Ranstead Street
Contact: (215) 563-3330
Hours: Monday – Wednesday 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Thursday – Saturday 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Walking into The Ranstead Room already feels like part of the experience. You go through an unmarked door, and suddenly you’re in a dim, hidden speakeasy with a strong vintage vibe.
Inside, there are leather booths, soft lighting, and cocktails that seem thoughtfully made. The menu changes often, so you can usually try something new each time you visit.
I also like that you can order food from the restaurant next door, which makes the night feel more complete.
The downside is that drinks are on the pricey side, and since it’s walk-in only, you might end up waiting during busy nights.
Customer Reviews
A true craft cocktail bar with a very chic ambiance
Great experience. A true craft cocktail bar with a very chic ambiance. Billy & Sam behind the bar were hospitable, knowledgeable, & truly own their craft. A new staple for me whenever I am in Philly 👌🏼
- Troy Davis | Google Review
Lovely music and gorgeous cocktails
The bar is one of the best we have ever visited. Behind a hidden door is a wonderful bar, with friendly awesome bartenders, lovely music and gorgeous cocktails. Order the ‚bartenders choice’ and you know what a good cocktail has to taste.
- Holger | Google Review
3. 1 Tippling Place
Website: https://www.1tpl.com
Address: 2006 Chestnut St.
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Friday – Saturday 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
1 Tippling Place feels more like a quiet living room than a typical cocktail bar, which makes it easy to relax. The cozy space has vintage decor, comfortable seats, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s great for long conversations.
Their cocktails are well-balanced, with both seasonal and classic choices that are easy to enjoy. I appreciate that it never gets too loud or feels rushed, so it’s a nice place to catch up with friends.
The only downside is that finding a seat can be confusing when it’s busy, and you might have to wait a little.
Still, it’s a great choice if you want a calm and easy night out.
Customer Reviews
The drinks here are amazing
Great spot! (Somewhat) hidden hole in the ground cocktail bar! Some of my friends call it a speakeasy, but it’s not truly hidden. The drinks here are amazing and it’s a grea0t place to go on a date. The environment is really cozy and antique. Be warned, it can get somewhat crowded. I recommend just trying everything on the menu over multiple visits; so far, their Old Fashioned is a solid choice and their Penicillin is also pretty good.
Rating: 8/10
- Patrick Ho | Google Review
Really nice little cocktail bar
Really nice little cocktail bar. Comfortable, classic & cozy interior with drinks to match. It doesn’t have all the pretentions that a “speakeasy” does (there’s a big window right onto chestnut street), but it still has that intimate atmosphere that makes them fun. Definitely adding this to my rotation!
- Robert Holmes | Google Review
4. The Library Bar
Website: https://www.rittenhousehotel.com/
Address: 210 West Rittenhouse
Contact: 215-546-9000
Hours: Sunday – Thursday 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Friday – Saturday 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
It’s easy to forget the busy city outside when you walk into The Library Bar at Rittenhouse Square. Inside this luxury hotel, the bar feels like a quiet library with dark wood, a cozy fireplace, and gentle live piano music.
The drink menu highlights rare spirits and fine wines, making it a place for slow, relaxed sipping instead of a noisy night out. I also appreciate that you can order small plates from the hotel kitchen with your drinks.
The only drawback is that the staff can sometimes be a little too attentive, and the seating rules are a bit strict.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place for drinks, though, this place is a solid option.
Customer Reviews
Taste very sweet and easy to drink
This is my one of favorite bar in Philadelphia, it has live music, nice cocktail. I like dark knight a lot, I was a little bit unsure about the color, and the glass they poured in, but it taste very sweet and easy to drink.
- Aigo M (Miss Aigo) | Google Review
The server explained each cocktail to us
Great atmosphere for a cocktail bar. Dim, swanky, high end feel. Delicious, unique cocktails. I loved that the server explained each cocktail to us too when serving them. Come here for the experience not just the drinks!
- Kimberly Madden | Google Review
5. Sassafras
Website: https://www.sassafrasbar.com/
Address: 48 S. 2nd Street
Contact: 215-292-2317
Hours: Monday – Tuesday 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM, Wednesday – Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
When you step into Sassafras in Old City, it immediately feels like a place with real history. The vintage decor, old tile floors, and carved wooden bar create a classic, timeless atmosphere.
The drink menu is sorted by type of spirit, so it’s easy to find something you’ll enjoy.
They keep things lively with jazz nights and changing food specials, so there’s always something going on. I appreciate that the place feels relaxed and unpretentious, even with all its charm.
The main drawback is that the service can be hit-or-miss, depending on how busy the night gets. But if you’re up for enjoying a drink with some character, this is the place to be!
Customer Reviews
Super attentive service
I’m a big fan of cocktail bars and the style of this one was right up my alley. I sat at the bar and enjoyed a well made classic last word as well as the BLT with the waffle fries. The BLT was nothing special for me but the waffle fries were addicting. The best part of the experience for me honestly was Clark behind the bar with his super attentive service and I learned he’s quite intuitive. I’ll definitely be back and hopefully Clark’s shaking it up behind the bar.
- Joel Rolon | Google Review
Service and ambience meets the price point
Great place to have a tasty, swanky cocktail. Service and ambience meets the price point.
Find a cozy spot or sit at the bar to chat with the local bartender. Fun to pick something off the menu, but service is very helpful if you’re struggling to choose.
Restroom upstairs is eclectic and includes a couch.
- stacylaughs | Google Review
