Top Speakeasy Bars In Philadelphia
In recent years, speakeasies have been popping up all over the place, and with good reason - these hip bars concentrate on perfecting cocktails, both classic and inventive, and the ambiance takes you back to a simpler time of days gone by. If you're looking to imbibe a perfectly-made cocktail in a dimly lit room, this list will help you out.
1 Tippling Place
2006 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-0456
www.1tpl.com
1 Tippling Place is hard to find with its unmarked entrance but has a more relaxed vibe than other speakeasies in the area, so you'll want to find it by heading to 20th and Chestnut St. and looking for Spice Ends, which is right next to it. Tippling's mixed chairs, sofas and tables adds to its dark and cozy ambiance and the cocktails are made with speakeasy-like strength and quality. In fact, 1 Tippling concocts a good selection of both seasonal and classic cocktails, like a French 75, Old Fashioned and a Bee's Knees. If you're hungry, 1 Tippling Place also serves a few hors d'oeuvres, including meatballs, sausage rolls and grilled cheese.
Fiume
229 S. 45th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
www.facebook.com/Fiume
Fiume sits above the Ethiopian restaurant Abyssinia in West Philadelphia, and, unless you're in the know, you might not even notice its existence. Fiume is a tiny, standing-room only place. While here, you'll feel like you are in a good friend's studio apartment – one that is stocked full of cold beer and includes an extensive list of whiskey, that is. Live music is performed here a few nights a week, and it's especially great for the bluegrass and jazz fanatics.
Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company
112 S. 18th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(267) 467-3277
www.thefranklinbar.com
Don't feel discouraged if you encounter a line waiting to get into the Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company. It won't take too long before you're directed down the steps and to your seat, where you'll be able to peruse a long list of both innovative and classic cocktails made with precision and quality ingredients. With categories ranging from "Easy Going" to "I Asked Her For Water, She Brought Me Gasoline," there's something for everyone here. Don't be afraid to ask for something not on the menu or for a suggestion – the bartenders are highly knowledgeable and will whip up something just for you.
Related: Top Martini Bars In Philadelphia
Hop Sing Laundromat
1029 Race St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
www.hopsinglaundromat.com
Hop Sing Laundromat is an unmarked speakeasy in Chinatown, but it's easy to find by locating the big iron doors. To enter, simply ring the doorbell, and you'll be greeted by the doorman who, after checking IDs and your appearance (Hop Sing has a strict dress code – no sneakers!), takes you into the waiting room where you learn the rules of the establishment. These rules include no cell phone use and no photos, and if they're broken, you'll be asked to leave. But the no-cell phone rule only adds to the Prohibition era ambiance and the cocktails are made with premium liquor, so you'll want to stay.
The Ranstead Room
2013 Ranstead St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 563-3330
The Ranstead Room is a member of the Stephen Starr family and is hidden away on Ranstead St. in a dark alley behind Chestnut St. Barely noticeable, this bar is situated behind El Rey and can be spotted by its red brick façade, black door and the two R's placed strategically on the door. In true speakeasy fashion, the Ranstead Room keeps the lighting low and the drinks strong. Order the "Bartender's Choice," where, after you're asked a series of questions about your drink preferences, you'll be presented with the perfect cocktail for you.
Kelly Neilson is a freelance writer living and working in Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
