Looking for a perfectly crafted Sazerac, well-curated wine list or local craft brew? The area’s hippest hotel bars and cocktail lounges are shaking up the city’s social scene. An ultra-chic spot on the ninth floor of The Logan, Assembly Rooftop Lounge affords Insta-worthy views of Logan Square and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The locale features seasonal cocktails, modern small plates, comfy seating and cozy fire pits. Stop by from 4 to 6 p.m., Tuesday to Friday, for happy hour specials.
For a posh vibe, grab a drink at XIX bar on the 19th floor of the The Bellevue Hotel. Sip one of the bar’s 19 signature cocktails or a craft brew while lounging in a leather banquette admiring the local artwork on the walls of this stately space. The bar, which is adjacent to XIX restaurant, offers a New American menu, charcuterie plates and raw bar. Enjoy reduced prices on beer, wine and specialty cocktails during happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. PSST: Grab a seat on the outdoor terrace for sweeping city views.
For a more intimate experience, head to the cozy cocktail den nestled inside The Rittenhouse. The Library Bar’s decor reflects its name with elegant furniture, dark-wood accents, a limestone fireplace—and a selection of books lining the built-in shelves. In addition to a small-plate menu from the chef at Lacroix restaurant, the bar also offers a 17-page drink menu with a nice selection of fine wines, craft beers and artisan cocktails.
Head to Keating’s Rope & Anchor, Bar and Kitchen for unmatched Delaware waterfront views. Located in the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing, the outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying a handcrafted cocktail on a sunny day. Specializing in sustainable seafood dishes, Keating’s also offers an ample beer and wine list in a maritime-inspired setting.
For picture perfect views of Center City, grab a balcony table at Attico on the top floor of the Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown Center City. The large indoor/outdoor space serves contemporary Mediterranean and American fare and features a robust menu of class and modern craft cocktails. Visit Monday to Friday, 5 to 7 p.m., for happy hour specials. Be sure to check out Treble & Bass on the ground floor, as well. This musically themed bar has instruments for lights and furniture.
The art of food and drink is at the heart of this hangout on the ground floor of the Sonesta Hotel Philadelphia. Stylish digs are complemented by a standout art collection curated in partnership with The Center for Emerging Visual Artists. Enjoy an extensive list of local and domestic brews, fine wines, and spirits. ARTBAR’s signature art-infused, hand-crafted cocktails include “Warhol’s Wild Raspberries.” Dine alfresco with outdoor seating along 18th street – a great place for people watching.
An urbane yet neighborly bar, Red Owl Tavern in the Hotel Monaco attracts locals and visitors with its smart menu that features American staples with a modern twist. The bar has also built a fan base thanks to its signature cocktail and craft beer selections. Venture up to the hotel’s Stratus Rooftop Lounge, a sophisticated night spot that shakes up craft cocktails and dishes out seasonal plates to a stylish crowd.
Panorama, located inside the Penn’s View Hotel in Old City Philadelphia, offers over 150 wines by the glass and is the largest WineKeeper in the world – as certified by Guinness World Records. The restaurant infuses old world charm with modern and contemporary elements just steps away from the historic attractions like the Elfreth’s Alley, Betsy Ross House and Christ Church.
