Pre-pandemic I was out a lot! From all of the corporate happy hours to Tuesday night dinners with my mom, the streets in Philly were hit ok! I’m still hitting the streets as they are opening up, just in a more careful and thoughtful way.
My Love for Happy Hour
I love the energy behind being out. Whether the energy comes from getting dressed to vibe at a cute brunch or decompressing after work at happy hour, these social settings are top-tier for me. When I worked in Center City Philadelphia, I often grabbed drinks after work at vibey establishments such as El Vez, Sampan, and Opa. As a young professional, looking forward to drinks and laughs after work is like looking forward to a pizza party after school.
My mother also worked in Center City during that time and we quickly locked in Tuesday nights for mommy-daughter dates, alternating between dinner and get our nails done. Aside from making sure our refills were poppin, Tuesdays turned into vegan/vegetarian happy hour night where we ran through all the best ones Center City Philly had to offer including Charlie was a Sinner and Vedge.
My Adoration for Brunch
All of this was pre-pandemic, but my love for these experiences remains the same, with some extra precautions. Brunch in Philly is lit which is why it’s one of my favorite experiences. Everyone finds something they want, the mimosas are flowing, and people come with the vibes. Brunch has been my meal of choice when friends are coming into town or just to catch up with family. Some of my favorite places for brunch to bring the vibes via soul are The Breakfast Boutique, Relish, and South.
How I'm Staying Safe
The moral of the story is if there is good energy and good food I’m there! But these days before I reserve that table, I check for a few things to make sure I’m keeping my loves safe as well as the staff:
Outdoor Seating Option: Weather & lattern fly permitting, I would probably choose a restaurant with great outdoor seating to have the best time.
My Indoor Seating Requirements: Basically, I’m not overlapping with anyone anymore. Restaurants need to have big open & ventilated spaces and partitions where necessary.
The Restaurant’s Stance: People were watching for stimmis and I was watching for what restaurants were saying about covid… Ok, I was looking for the stimmi too! But some habits I’ve taken before booking a restaurant are checking their website for (1) Any precautions and cleaning measures they’ve implemented, (2) How they protect their staff, and (3) Policies for masks. I plan to do my part, but I also want to know that they are doing theirs too.
The Precautionary Purse: I definitely make sure my purse is stocked with my precautionary measures. Now I’m not saying that I don’t forget a thing or three, but the things I try to have are: spray hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, an extra mask (I’m liable to spoil mine), and believe it or not my own reusable straw.
Tip Please!
It means a lot to me to be responsible during this time and beyond. This is why I don’t go to any establishment unless I am able to tip 20% and over. Of course, if it is a subpar service, the server will be tipped accordingly. 20% as a base is fair to tip people who have to constantly come in contact with other people for our brunches and happy hours. I do try to tip in between 25-30% often, especially if the food is on the cheaper side.
My Favorite Brunch & Happy Hour Spots in Philly
In no particular order, the list below is a culmination of the Philadelphia restaurant experiences described above. My expertise comes from this culmination and just my overall obsession with all things food & vibes. These places are categorized by which meal type I can vouch for from them. Remember this list is reflective of MY experiences. BUT trust and believe these places bring the energy you want! If you don’t believe me, go visit these restaurants offering brunch, happy hour, or both for yourself and experience the vibes.
Litty Philly Brunch
You can find a great brunch experience in pretty much every corner of Philly. The places listed below not only bring the welcoming vibes to a black foodie queen such as myself, but they all add their own flavorful flare to the Philly brunch scene.
Aksum (BYOB)
Mediterranean | West Philadelphia | Indoor/Limited Outdoor Seating | $$
Let's get the list started with this black-owned gem located in the West Philadelphia section of Philly. This weekend brunch favorite offers flavor profiles stemming from Mediterranean flavors that will make you sit up in your chair, lean over the plate, and thank God twice.
What I've had: Spiced Shrimp & Grits, House Potatoes, Eggs
American | King of Prussia | Indoor/Limited Outdoor Seating | $$$
If your meal being made from scratch is high up on your list, Founding Farmers should be in your thoughts! From the freshly made pasta to the fried chicken & donuts, this restaurant is worth your vibes. In addition to the amazing food, the aesthetics of this LEED Silver building are well thought out with bright and airy spaces as well as a dark and vibey bar area. Speaking of the bar, I need to mention that the drinks are strong and worth it.
What I've had: Founding Spirits Vodka & Pesto Shrimp Fettuccine, Cornbread, Strawberry-Ginger Margarita
American | Downtown Philly | Rooftop Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
We all love a good rooftop brunch, right! With a subtle botanical vibe, Attico delivers a straight-to-the-point brunch menu that includes a mimosa sampler to share with friends. Located in the heart of Center City Philly, this rooftop brunch hotspot gives exclusive vibes.
What I've had: Chicken & Waffles, Strawberry Lychee Fizz
American | King of Prussia | Big Indoor Spaces | $$
Definitely the LUX version of the cheesecake factory, Grand Lux allows you to brunch hard with all of its options. Everyone can truly find something that they like here. You can easily mix brunch items like the beignets with the regular menu items like the volcano shrimp to create a poppin brunch spread.
What I've had: Asian Short Rib Tacos, Mini Crab Cakes, Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Jambalaya, Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop, Beignets, Blood Orange Martini
Cafe La Maude (BYOB)
Lebanese-French | Northern Liberties | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Serving Lebanese-French vibes, Cafe La Maude is worth the wait! They serve brunch classics with a Lebanese-French twist that is deep in flavor and plated to make your eyes drool. I haven't eaten a miss yet at this Northern Liberties favorite.
What I've had: Green Shakshuka, Brisket Huevos Rancheros, Red Velvet Tiramisu Pancakes, Bacon, Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
The Breakfast Boutique (BYOB)
Southern Cuisine | Mt. Airy & Chestnut Hill | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
A black-owned staple in the Mount Airy and Chestnut Hill sections of Philadelphia, this brunch favorite gives you a filling southern brunch. They even offer vegetarian options for our friends that like to go meatless!
What I've had: Breakfast Boutique Sandwich, Catfish & Grits, Shrimp & Grits, Stuffed French Toast, Red Velvet Pancakes, Bacon, Sausage, Scrapple, Eggs, Homefries
French | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$$
If you are looking for a cute French Bistro that opens its glass fronts to a large robust park, visit Parc. It's such a classic vibe that offers fresh-baked pastries and escargot. They described themselves as "a lightly perfumed love letter to all the City of Light has to offer"... Accurate.
What I've had: Breakfast Pastries, Smoked Salmon Tartine, Pommes Frites, Pinot Noir, Le Paradis
Green Eggs Cafe (BYOB)
American | Downtown/North Philly/S. Philly | Seating Varies by Location | $$
From loaded pancakes to loaded lattes, Green Eggs Cafe's menu is as fun as its name. Seriously! The minds that prepared this menu tricked it out with classics that appeases your playful side. They have several locations from Girard to South Philly.
What I've had: Red Velvet Pancakes, Grits, Eggs, Bacon, Scrapple, Eggs Benedict
Sabrina’s (BYOB)
American | Downtown/West Philly/Wynnewood | $$
Another brunch favorite that you can find at different points of the city is Sabrina's Cafe. They simply do the brunch classics well. They get straight to the point with their dishes but they bring bold simple flavors. Seriously, it's a no-fuss, you will for sure find something you like menu!
What I've had: Stuffed Challah French Toast, Bagel & Lox
Honey’s Sit & Eat (BYOB)
Southern Jewish | Northern Liberties | Limited Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Honey's Sit and Eat is where you get to experience some good rustic southern cooking. They call it "Southern Jewish" cuisine and I call it delicious. The aesthetics of the space make you feel like you are seated in a country restaurant, almost Cracker Barrel-ish but cute. Just like its southern vibe, the fried chicken is big and the food is filling.
What I've had: Short Stack & Bacon, Chicken & Waffles, Bubby's Brisket Breakfast
Mediterranean | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Dining | $$$
The Mediterranean vibe we all want is The Spice Finch. It is giving luxury and I am here for every detail. From the top-tier modern design to the intricate flavors that highlight Mediterranean spices. Treat yourself to this unique brunch experience.
What I've had: Trio of Spreads, Shabazi Fries, Fattoush, Baked Cheese, Roasted Cauliflower, Lamb Kebobs, ShakShuka, Pinot Noir
Israeli | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Set in the middle of vintage luxury, K'far most definitely understands the assignment. Its Israeli delicacies give you an upscale dining experience that will stretch your tastebuds. Comforting pastries, rich sandwiches & soups are all on the menu!
What I've had: Smoked Salmon Jerusalen, Lentil Soup, Walnut Cake, Chai Latte
Italian | King of Prussia | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Italian food simply done well for brunch. Pastas fresh and bomb! Pizzas *chef's kiss*. Interior Design is dreamy. North Italia is seriously one of my favorite dining experiences. They offer big open spaces with indoor/outdoor seating availability. It gives a rare vibey mall dining experience.
What I've had: Prosciutto Pizza, Short Rib Hash, Bacon & Egg Pizza, Breakfast Mule
American | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$$
The Love specializes in American cuisine with playful southern touches. The menu is balanced and the portions are large and filling! The Brunch menu holds flavor bombs such as the Sriracha candied bacon and biscuits that come with pear-cardamon butter. Wow & yum! The exploration of flavor pairings is evident throughout the menu.
What I've had: Hush Puppies, Shrimp & Grits, Sriracha Bacon Candy, Biscuits, Fig Caesar, The Broken Arrow, Pinot Noir
Philly’s Happiest of Happy Hours
These happy hour favorites have these essential qualities in common: they serve up flavorful and strong drinks, the food is top tier, and the environment gives what it should! The happiest of hours begins with this list of Philly's great happy hour restaurants.
Mexican | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
If you haven't been to El Vez yet and you are in Philly, put them at the top of your list! The margaritas are STRONG! I could tell you plenty of stories to support that fact, but you really should try one for yourself. It has a fun and flashy Las Vegas aesthetic that sets the mood for Mexican cuisine. Eclectic vibes at their best!
What I've had: a Million Margaritas!, Chips & Salsa, Open Face Shrimp Quesadilla, Queso Fundido con Carne, Mexican Chopped Salad w/ Chicken, Shrimp Tacos
American | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor seating | $$
When I worked downtown, the Oyster House had $1 Oysters on a particular night during happy hour. That became my favorite happy hour night! With the option of having them raw or fried, eating oysters with friends is a vibe. But don't get too wrapped up in the top-tier oyster experience that you forget the flavorful drinks! They even have alcoholic oyster chasers.
What I've had: Oysters raw and fried, House Red
American | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Bud & Marilyn's is another vintage cutie in downtown Philly. This happy hour favorite offers simple luxury through familiar dishes. The flavors are deep, the plating is cute, and the comfort is real there.
What I've had: Crispy Cheese Curds, Nashville Hot Bun, Spring Mule
Mexican | Manayunk | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
I don't know if you knew this but Manayunk has some banging Mexican food and Margaritas! Taqueria Feliz is one of my favorite places to get my Mexican food fix. The flavors are simple but true and offer the experiences a vividly decorated Mexican restaurant should.
What I've had: a million Margaritas!, Cauliflower Tacos, Fish Tacos, Chips & Salsa, Black Bean Soup
Jewish | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$$
Luxurious Jewish food for the win at Abe Fisher! But wait, with vibes because they played everything from B2K to Usher over the speakers when I was there last. With smaller plates to encourage tasting, the menu offers soulful selections rich in fresh flavors. Dining there is a dark and vibey experience.
What I've had: Latke Fries, Borscht Tartare, Slow Roasted Cabbage, Sweet Potatoes w/ Boursin Cheese, Walnuts & Pickled Jalapenos, Matzoh Ball Tamale, Grape Tart, a Black Carrot fermented drink
American | King of Prussia | Indoor/Outdoor seating | $$
Located at the King of Prussia Town Center, this sports bar-style restaurant is a classic happy hour spot. Its happy hour menu has familiar but flavorful bar bites that include cheese curds and fried chicken as well as beer selections from their 90 to craft beers. They offer 90 craft beers on tap! With loads of glass, its rustic design, and large open spaces the environment is high energy.
What I've had: Cheese Curds, Pinot Noir, Smoked Chicken Wings, Kung Pao Cauliflower, Scorpion Burger, Tex Mex Mac N' Cheese, Baked Beans
Vegan | Downtown Philly | Limited Indoor/Outdoor | $$$
Vedge is a culinary experience that tests your tastebuds and imagination. This is most certainly one of the top-tier vegan restaurants in the city that crafts their menu around seasonal veggies. Not only do the flavors come together in a harmonious way but the plating is immaculate!
What I've had: Baby Vegetable Crudite, Asparagus, English Peas, Mixed Vegetables, Assorted Sorbet, Red
Pan-Asian | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
The perfect Asian vibey happy hour place in downtown Philly. With a dark and modern aesthetic, Sampan's happy hour experience brings Asian street food to the luxurious realm. There are plenty of familiar bites on the happy hour menu as well as items to stretch your palette!
What I've had: Cucumber Avocado Roll, Crab Ragoon, Pork Bao, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Thai Punch
Vegan | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$$
Being introduced to Charlie was a Sinner changed my whole outlook on vegan restaurants. I went in with doubt and came out with not a desire unmet. Seriously! If you are looking for vegan food that does not make you compromise on flavor and makes you forget that meat is not on the menu, this is your spot! Be prepared to take in some great small plates! Everything was just vibes, the food, the moody setting, just everything.
What I've had: Artichokes, Potato Croquettes, Zucchini Crabcakes, Bucatini & Meatballs, Charlie's Punch
British Cuisine | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
The aesthetics, food, and drinks are all on point at the Dandelion. The menu is UK-inspired. The setting screams Victorian with every turn so much so that you almost feel like you are in a private club. It is truly an appropriate setting for both happy hour and high tea! Visit the Dandelion for a very sophisticated happy hour experience.
What I've had: Curried Deviled Eggs, Cheeseboard, Red
Mediterranean | Downtown Philly | Limited Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Barbuzzo is a rustic Mediterranean restaurant that feels comforting in the way a large farmhouse kitchen does. You just feel that some flavorful, fresh food is going to come your way. Paired with their delicately crafted cocktails, Barbuzzo is a happy hour experience you'll want to return for!
What I've had: Caciocavallo Stuffed Meatballs, Papas Fritas, Blood Orange Mint Punch
American | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
With the menu focusing on simplicity and the surroundings focusing on wow, Harper's Garden gives you a vibrant happy hour experience. The interior kind of feels like an old mansion with chandeliers, wallpaper, and controlled vines. It's cute. The drinks are crafted with a lot of thought and flavor. My favorite happy hour experience here is grabbing a personal greenhouse outside for the vibes.
What I've had: Pommes Frites, Potato Gnocchi, The 'Merica Burger, I Found My Thrill
American | Fairmount | Indoor/Outdoor Philly | $$
Happy hour at Fare is high energy but homey at the same lovely time! You feel the energy behind the classic bar bites but then you order an entree and suddenly you feel as if you are waiting at someone's mother's table being served a thoughtful, organic plate. Go get a taste for yourself!
What I've had: Truffle Fries, Mozzarella Sticks, Vegetarian Ravioli, Mango Paloma, Merlot,
Spanish | Downtown Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$$
Quickly immerse yourself in innovative Spanish cuisine through Amada's happy hour experience. Chef Jose Garces has many wins in my book and this is definitely one of them. Just like many of his other locations the aesthetics are vibrant & fun, the plates are innovative but the flavors are straight to the point, and the drinks give you something to rock about.
What I've had: Patatas Bravas, Chorizo Bilbao, Spanish Mojito
Mexican | Chestnut Hill | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
I saved my favorite Taco Tuesday destination for last to round out this portion! It's heavy on the taco truck vibes from the inside to the outdoor seating. The margaritas- strong and worth it! The tacos- whether you fill it with meat or veggies, they are amazing! The ambiance brings the perfect cantina feels. You can't go wrong here. The flavors and feels run deep!
What I've had: a Million Margaritas! Chips & Salsa, Nachos, Mahi Tacos, Curry Cauliflower Tacos, Plantains, Refried Beans, Brussels Sprouts, Seafood Quesadilla
Philly’s Best of Both Worlds (Brunch & Happy Hour):
Philly for sure has a large selection of culinary gems. There are some that do both happy hour and brunch both equally well! Here is a list of restaurants in Philadelphia that I frequent for both.
Southern Cuisine | Spring Garden | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Black-owned, southern cuisine, poppin interior, live entertainment, and vibes. You show up for a happy hour and get hit with some flavorful southern small bites like crawfish fritters & drinks that pop OR you show up for weekend brunch and get blown away by the flare they add with items like the chicken confit hash. The energy from this space will have you feeling grown and sexy at every meal!
What I've had: Chicken Confit Hash, Fried Green Tomatoes, Cornbread, Creole Deviled Eggs, South Caesar Salad, Blue Crab Toast, Beef Short Rib, Carolina Shrimp and Grits, Crawfish Fritters, Chicken Fried Oysters, Blackberry Sangria, Bourbon Punch
Southern Cuisine | West Oak Lane | Take-Out Temporarily | $$
Another black-owned Philly great that does the southern classics in a way that makes you want to hug your plate! They are still ramping back up but before Covid-19 restrictions, Relish was the place to be for happy hour performances and a loaded weekend brunch experience. They will soon be back to it, but for now, enjoy their take-out and to-go drinks!
What I've had: Turkey Wings, Fried Catfish, Caribbean Salmon, Honey Hot Wings, Cornbread, Iron Skillet Fried Chicken, Mac & Cheese, Seafood Mac & Cheese, Brown Sugar Pineapple Bread Pudding, Hennessey Sangria, Mimosas
Latin-American | King of Prussia | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
If you head out with me enough, you probably hit Paladar once or 100 times. Not only is it my favorite place to frequent at the King of Prussia Town Center but it's one of my favorite places to go in the city period! Let's start with the fact that they carry over 100 rums! This Latin kitchen does not miss a beat ANYWHERE on its menu. Hit brunch and grab a filling dish where the Cuban spices are making your palette scream with joy. For happy hour, I love to grab a rum flight and tacos! The aesthetics? Beautiful, Latin-inspired, bright, colorful, open & airy spaces for the win!
What I've had: Crispy Shrimp Tacos, Braised Beef Ropa Vieja, Create Your Own Guacamole, Brussels Sprouts, Bread Sampler, Grilled Steak and Eggs, Rum Flights, Craft Your Own Mimosas
Southern- American | West Philly | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Booker's is a black-owned experience offering elevated southern food well... Very well! The happy hour menu is loaded with familiar treats which I usually grab a couple and a whiskey ginger and have a good night! Brunch is loaded as well with vegetarian options for those meatless days. Top brunch off with a mimosa and the meal is complete!
What I've had: Buffalo Cauliflower, Thai Wings, Brussels Sprouts, Cheese Curds, Truffle Fries, Mussels, Chicken & Waffles, Mimosas, Whiskey Ginger, Booker's Punch, Pinot Noir
American | University City | Indoor/Outdoor Seating | $$
Waterfront, upscale diner vibes are what the Walnut St. Cafe is giving. Located at the bottom of the FMC Tower in the Cira Centre, it projects luxury before you hit the door. The menu items are innovative, simple, but packed with flavor. Did you think you could feel elegant and tipsy at the same time? Well, I sure do here! The happy hour is light-hearted and fun while the brunch is delicious and to the point.
What I've had: Breakfast Sandwich, Meatballs, Truffle Potato Chips, Whiskey Hibiscus Smash, Mimosas,
Try one or work your way through all of these places and you won't be disappointed. Just make sure you show up with good energy, an appetite, and the funds to tip well!
Do you have a place(s) to add to this list? Have you been to these places listed below and have an experience to share? Or just want to tell me what you think about the list? Talk to me in the comments!