Here’s a list of Philly’s coziest bars
Don’t let the winter freeze stop your late-night plans. Here’s where to find the coziest bars in town.
A long and cold Philly winter is upon us. But don’t let the snowfall, frigid winds, or slippery roads derail your late-night plans — plenty of cozy bars, intimate lounges, and warm gathering spots offer toasty cocktails and snug vibes perfect for a night out.
These destinations deliver the comfort of home with added flair: lush leather seating, warmly lit decor, and seasonal menus designed to make you feel festive. Here’s a guide to some of Philly’s coziest spots this winter.
Modeled after Japanese jazz kissas, 48 Record Bar is one of the premiere listening rooms in the city. The 45-seat venue, located just above Sassafras, attracts vinyl-obsessed patrons looking for well-crafted cocktails and an intimate musical experience. The shelves are lined with a library of vinyl classics, and heavy curtains drape the walls to help seal in the acoustics. Guests can also enjoy menu items like Welsh rarebit and deviled eggs near the toasty fireplace.
📍48 S. Second St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19106, 📞 215-925-2317, 🌐 48recordbar.com
Step into what feels like a grand study at The Rittenhouse Hotel’s Library Bar. Heavy leather furniture, built-in bookshelves, and a glowing chandelier set the tone. The cocktail menu includes a whimsical lineup of drinks inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Try the Chocolate River, made with Basil Hayden Dark Rye, Peychaud’s, and chocolate agave, or the Candy Man, a blend of Vida Mezcal, turmeric, pineapple, and coconut cream. Pair your drinks with small plates like beef tartare toast or indulge in heartier fare like gnocchi parisienne.
📍210 W Rittenhouse Sq., Philadelphia, Pa., 19103, 📞 215-546-9000, 🌐 rittenhousehotel.com
From a hidden door panel outside its doors, an Alpen Rose host welcomes guests inside this homey Center City steakhouse. The wood-paneled walls, leather seats, bookshelves, and low light provide the comfort of regality. Guests can enjoy soothing cocktails and dishes like grilled heritage chicken and a 32-ounce porterhouse steak by the restaurant’s wood-burning hearth.
📍 116 S 13th St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19107, 📞 215-600-0709, 🌐 alpenrosephl.com
Philly’s first espresso martini bar serves fruit-infused and dessert-inspired martinis in a living room-style setup complete with cozy decor. Sip a ‘tini surrounded by high-tops and plush chaises for a perfect winter hangout.
📍1500 Locust St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19102, 📞 267-761-5582, 🌐 The Elephant Bar Instagram
Located in Rittenhouse Grill, the Leopard Lounge bar is a fresh concept by owner Garth Weldon. The elegant space resembles a 1940s Manhattan supper club. The floors are covered with leopard print from wall to wall, and the ritzy atmosphere is complemented by live performances from the glass-topped baby grand piano.
📍1701 Locust St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19103, 📞 215-772-1701, 🌐 rittenhousegrill.com
Overlooking the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Assembly Rooftop Lounge offers winter views and après-ski vibes. Blankets, fire pits, and menu items like gruyere fondue create a fireside atmosphere perfect for sipping seasonal cocktails.
📍 1840 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, Pa., 19103, 📞 215-783-4171, 🌐 assemblyrooftop.com
This cafe and cocktail lounge near Rittenhouse Square is a cozy destination by day and night. The latest concept by chef Jonathan Adams and Damien Pileggi of Rival Bros. Coffee is housed inside The Touraine. The Art Deco design is elevated by modern restorative touches to the historic space. The main bar is bookended by grand columns, and marble-topped tables and green leather banquettes fill the luxurious dining room. The cozy furnishings create a warm setting to enjoy chef-driven dishes and spirit-forward drinks.
📍1528 Spruce St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19102, 📞 215-398-5919, 🌐 enswellphilly.com
Escape the buzz of Fishtown’s Fabrika cabaret for a quieter vibe at Margolis, its weekend-only cocktail lounge. Billed as “Fishtown’s Best Kept Secret,” this weekend-only offering is filled with plush couches, lounge chaises, and comfy high-tops for cocktails. Guests can also enjoy live DJ sets under the transient bedroom lights that shine from all corners.
📍9 W Wildey St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19123, 📞 215-203-0202, 🌐 margolisphilly.com
A cheerful night at Le Caveau will make all forget about the winter weather.Located above The Good King Tavern, Le Caveau offers Old World wines, smoked fish rillettes, and cozy charm in a cellar-inspired setting. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding with warm cheeses and a perfect pour.
📍 614 S 7th St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19147, 📞 215-625-3700, 🌐 lecaveaubar.com
This South Philly corner bar has an elbow-to-elbow counter, surrounding the venue’s vast cocktail options. It’s the latest creation by Jim McNamara and Fergie Carey of Fergie’s Pub and The Goat Rittenhouse.
📍1701 S. 8th St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19148, 📞 215-567-1500, 🌐 thejimphilly.com