Greg's Philly Cocktail Faves

1 Tippling Place

Rating:  
★★★★★
Cost:  
$$
2006 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
http://1tpl.com/

I almost don't want to tell you about this place. It has a speakeasy feel about it. Like it should be a well-kept secret.

This is a very cool place. Like any good speakeasy, it is poorly marked. There is a street sign like you would see in Europe on the side of the building, but not near the door of the place itself. Inside, you are welcomed with warm and inviting chairs and couches. You are welcomed yet again with a list of craft cocktails that will spark the imagination and tickle the taste buds. The bartenders are also warm, welcoming, and immensely helpful as they guide you through their formidable yet approachable cocktail list.

I have a fond memory of lounging at 1 Tippling Place for hours while nursing a few cocktails with my Fiancée. While you are there, you remember and cherish the fact that life is good.

Go to 1 Tippling Place. Enjoy! (Tell no one...)

Hop Sing Laundromat

Rating:  
★★★★☆
Cost:  
$$$
1029 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
http://www.hopsinglaundromat.com/

A truly unique speakeasy in Chinatown. They have strict rules, like no taking photos. Disobey and you will be blacklisted and never allowed to return. You can also be blacklisted for not tipping enough. The quality of the cocktails make up for the rules. Play nicely and enjoy!

The Continental Martini Bar

Rating:  
★★★★☆
Cost:  
$$
138 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://continentalmartinibar.com

A Stephen Starr restaurant, so you know the food will be great. Wonderful cocktails, including throwback cocktails like The Astronaut that includes peach vodka and Tang. Yes, that Tang. Barstools that look like olives. Cool, diner-like vibe in the front with lots of seating in the back.

The Continental Midtown

Rating:  
★★★★☆
Cost:  
$$
1801 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
https://continentalmidtown.com

Sister to the Continental Martini Bar. Wonderful cocktails. Great food. When I could eat gluten, the lobster mac and cheese was a favorite. The Rad Na salad (chow fun noodles, peanuts, and chicken over romaine lettuce) is magnificent. Like any Stephen Starr restaurant, it is a winner.

Village Whiskey

Rating:  
★★★★★
Cost:  
$$
118 South 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130
https://philadelphia.villagewhiskey.com/

As the name implies, they have whiskey (and, more importantly whisky without the 'e', i;e., Scotch). They have a very impressive collection (over 200), including bourbon, rye, Japanese, and Irish whiskies in addition to my beloved Scotch whisky. That said, anybody can stock up on impressive whiskies and call it a day. What makes Village Whiskey so special is that it is owned by Iron Chef Jose Garces, meaning their food is incredible. Their hamburgers have been called the best in the country, and I can attest to the fact that they are amazing. They also serve Duck Fat Fries...yes, French fries cooked in duck fat...and if that were not enough, you can also get them topped with short rib and cheddar cheese. I'm not sure whether or not that should come with a side of Lipitor...

Regardless, the food is wonderful, the spirits are impeccable, and the place is fun and inviting. If you go there, have The Glenlivet for me!