Last reviewed 2026-04-17 · How we pick bars
Philadelphia has always had a chip on its shoulder about New York, and the bar scene benefits from it. Philly bars are less expensive, less pretentious, and in several cases more serious about their craft than their Manhattan counterparts. The city built a speakeasy culture that operates strictly on its own terms, a Belgian beer scene that rivals Brussels, and a cocktail programme at Hop Sing Laundromat that refuses to compromise on anything. These are the 13 bars that define it.
The Philadelphia bar guide covers more than 55 venues across 7 neighbourhoods. This list is for the visitor who wants to drink well in a city that knows how to do it.
The Best Speakeasy and Cocktail Bars in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's cocktail bars are built around a culture of discretion. The best ones do not announce themselves. Hop Sing Laundromat has a no-camera policy. Franklin Mortgage does not have a sign. The Ranstead Room is located in an alley. Philly earned its speakeasy reputation the hard way.
"Philadelphia builds its bars like it builds its history — without asking for your approval."
The Best Craft Beer Bars in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's Belgian beer culture is older than the city's cocktail scene. Philadelphia craft beer bars led by Monk's Cafe set the standard for serious beer programming in the US before anyone else was paying attention.
East Passyunk and South Philadelphia
East Passyunk Avenue has emerged as the strongest neighbourhood bar corridor in the city. Philadelphia's hidden gem bars cluster here alongside wine bars and aperitivo rooms that feel transplanted from Rome.
The Best Whiskey Bars in Philadelphia
Philadelphia has a serious whiskey culture that most visitors discover by accident. Philadelphia's whiskey-focused bars operate in the tradition of serious American drinking: good bottles, no pretension, the right glass for the pour.
Where to Drink in Philadelphia: By Neighbourhood
Rittenhouse Square is Centre City's most reliable bar neighbourhood. Franklin Mortgage is here, alongside a dozen upmarket options within walking distance.
Old City runs along the Delaware River waterfront and concentrates Philadelphia's most tourist-facing bars. Prohibition Taproom is the one worth going to.
East Passyunk is for the serious drinker who wants to eat well between rounds. Brigantessa and a rotating cast of wine bars make this the neighbourhood's best evening.
Callowhill is north of Centre City and still rough around the edges in the best way. The Trestle Inn is the reason to go.
Chinatown hosts Hop Sing Laundromat, which is the most important reason to visit any Philadelphia neighbourhood.
Explore the full Philadelphia bar guide for all venues, or read about the best hidden gem bars in Philadelphia for the full speakeasy breakdown. For comparison across American cities, our New York bar guide covers the city that Philadelphia will always measure itself against.
