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Top Bars For Business Drinks In Philadelphia

In the normal course of business, it's often prudent and even necessary to escape the formal restrictions of the corporate office and meet with clients in a more relaxed setting. A relaxed yet serious-enough atmosphere that fosters trust and communication is of paramount importance. And while not all bars, taverns or lounges fit those requirements, there are a number of places in Philadelphia that provide the perfect blend of convenience, service, atmosphere and amenities that make doing business a pleasure.
Downey's Restaurant
526 S. Front St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 625-9500
www.downeysrestaraunt.com

Overlooking Penn's Landing, Downey's Restaurant has served the Society Hill neighborhood since 1976. Nicely appointed with a dark mahogany bar, brick fireplace, wood panels and County Cork, Ireland, stained glass, this restaurant is located in the city's historic Old City district. There is plenty of no-hassle parking in front of the restaurant and along South Street, in addition to off-street parking that's within walking distance. Open every day of the year, this Irish-themed restaurant and pub features a raw bar, along with a menu that includes everything from standard fare to Irish specialties, all created under the watchful eye of Chef Domenico Centofanti. Drink selection includes Irish brews both on tap and bottled, along with a variety of spirits and liqueurs.

Related: Top Bars For Groups In Philadelphia

R2L Restaurant
50 S. 16th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 564-5337
www.r2lrestaurant.com

Located on the 37th floor of the Two Liberty Place Building, R2L features both public and private dining options, plus the late night BAR2L lounge. W, the restaurant is bordered by large windows that provide a sky-high view of the city. Reservations are required, which offers the opportunity to alert staff that the purpose of the occasion is to conduct business. BAR2L, created by chef Daniel Stern, features an impressive list of cocktails, along with a specialized lounge menu.

The Union League of Philadelphia
140 S. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 563-6500
www.unionleague.org

A members-only club, which in 2012 celebrated its 150th anniversary, The Union League of Philadelphia's history is intimately tied to the American Civil War. Since that time, it has continued to be the exemplar for civic- and social-minded residents of the city. The Thomas N. Pappas Executive Business Center, which provides work stations and the latest in business communication services, is available on a 24-hour basis. In addition to sumptuous accommodations, the League offers classic breakfast, lunch and dinner services and features a smoking room at Cafe Meredith.

Kokopelli Restaurant and Tequila Bar
1904 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 557-7510
www.kokopelliphilly.com

Located in Rittenhouse Square, the Kokopelli Restaurant and Tequila Bar sports continually changing mood lighting to illuminate its 60 tequila-infused cocktails to complement its Southwestern fare. Customers can choose the restaurant with its open areas and comfortable, modern-utilitarian seating or head up to the next floor to the Kiva Lounge. Sleek and chic, the lounge features a cocktail menu and bar packages, a wide selection of white, red and sparkling wines and a premium beer menu.

Barclay Prime
237 S. 18th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 732-7560
www.barclayprime.com

Situated on the first floor of the Barclay Building in Rittenhouse Square, Barclay Prime provides fine dining, a relaxing lounge and an excellent bar. Designed with its historic origins in mind, its interior presents a 1929 luxury hotel atmosphere. Its checkered black and white floors, enclosed by dark-wood-paneled walls of the lounge feature kitschy artistic seating blended with traditional booths and tables. The bar is reminiscent of a dark-wood-paneled Dickensian study. With red, white and sparkling wines available by the glass or bottle, its menu features a raw bar that includes caviar and other seafood delights.

Related: Top Bars For Foodies In Philadelphia

Jeffrey B. Roth, has won numerous state and national news and feature-writing awards during his career. A well-known crime writer, investigative reporter and a feature writer, Roth writes for a number of magazines and newspapers. Listed in the Locus Index of SciFi and Fantasy authors, Roth is the author of a number of published short stories and poetry. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
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