Best Bars in Philadelphia (2025)
Downstairs from the acclaimed restaurant, this intimate bar is a destination in its own right — named a 2025 James Beard Award finalist for Outstanding Bar. Expect inventive, seasonal drinks made with real precision and charm.
A modern neighborhood bar that keeps things simple: a tight list of well-made, fairly priced drinks and a quietly excellent roast beef sandwich. Named one of Esquire’s Best Bars in America in 2025, it feels sincerely Philly.
This East Kensington standout proves that farm-to-glass can be thrilling, sourcing spirits and ingredients from the Eastern U.S. Recognized by national editors, it’s lauded for creative cocktails that still read as delicious first.
Behind an unmarked door, strict house rules guard one of the city’s most talked-about cocktail rooms. Frequently praised by local food critics, its meticulous classics and originals reward the patient and the curious.
A Belgian beer temple run by local legends, with 25 taps, a deep bottle list, and mussels that match the brews. A five-time James Beard semifinalist for its beverage program and a living lesson in beer stewardship.
An indie bar and music venue that helped launch Fishtown’s scene. Expect local drafts, balcony views of the stage, and a lively crowd — a true neighborhood anchor with a citywide following.
Often credited with pioneering Philly’s gastropub era, this Northern Liberties favorite pours an all-local draft list and serves seasonal tavern fare. It’s the quintessential neighborhood bar — with standards that never slip.
South Philly’s beloved corner bar where the cult-favorite cheeseburger remains a steal and the beer list stays sharp. Frequently praised by local food writers, it’s an easygoing hang with late-night appeal.
A South Street classic since 1969, home of the Citywide Special and a long-running Thursday drag show. Celebrated by local press and loved by generations, it’s pure neighborhood character from open to last call.
Up a flight above Sassafras, this vinyl listening bar pairs audiophile sound with thoughtful cocktails. Featured by The Inquirer and awarded by Eater, it’s a stylish, music-first hangout with real hospitality.
A moody, punk‑spirited bar known for freezer martinis, oysters, and a smartly edited menu. Highlighted in Esquire’s Best Bars in America and spotlighted by local critics, it nails vibe without sacrificing craft.
Southwark is a solid option in Queen Village for everything from a solo beer and a burger to a romantic Saturday night out. The American pub has three distinct areas: a bar serving good cocktails, a fairly standard dining room, and a back patio. Neighborhood regulars keep the bar busy, and out of the three dining areas in the restaurant, that’s where you want to be. It’s laidback but nice enough, and full of dark wood paneling and vintage artwork. Plus, on Monday nights when the restaurant is closed, you can come to the bar for excellent wines by the glass usually only sold by the bottle. The only exception to this rule is when the weather cooperates—that's when you should have dinner on the plant-filled patio out back. The menu mostly consists of elevated takes on meaty tavern classics, like foie gras terrine, venison tartare, and a bone-in ribeye that's great for sharing. But steer clear of the pastas. They have a Goldilocks problem: some are too soft, some are slightly tough, while others still are over-salted. We haven't found one that's just right. It's especially surprising since these dishes come from the same kitchen as the adjoining sister restaurant, Ambra, which makes the best Italian food in the city. But order like you're on the carnivore diet, or just stop by for drinks and snacks, and you'll be in for a lovely evening. Food Rundown Cheddar-Stuffed “Hush Puppies” These are good—lightly fried, crisp on the outside, and doughy and filled with cheese on the inside. They come with a Calabrian chili hot honey for dipping. Share an order. Baked Rotolo This is like an underseasoned, too-mushy meatloaf rolled up in pasta dough. Skip it. Double Cheeseburger & Fries The patties have a nice char and we love the bacon and blue cheese combo. The thick cut fries are good, too, especially when you dip them in garlicky aioli. But be forewarned: they don’t have ketchup here, in case that's your dip of choice.