SSC Team Picks: Our Go-To Happy Hour Spots in Philadelphia

July 10, 2023

Happy hour is presumably our favorite time of the day—where friends, family, colleagues, and strangers come together to mix and mingle over drinks and food. It’s a time to unwind from the day, catch up with friends, or celebrate a special occasion. Lucky for us, there’s no shortage of great happy hour spots in Center City. From new-American cuisine to French and Mexican, there are so many great restaurants and bars to choose from. If you’re looking for a new place to check out, continue reading. We’re sharing some of our team’s favorite happy hour spots in Philadelphia.

a.bar Philly—.77 mile drive from The Annex & The Touraine

Photo: a.kitchen and bar

Located on the corner of Walnut Street and South 18th Street, a.bar is an intimate, innovative cocktail bar with a specialty in craft cocktails and natural/organic wine. Part of the esteemed a.kitchen restaurant, this cocktail bar is just as noteworthy with honorable mentions from Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator

a.bar is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxed, cozy environment. The lighting is dim, and the seating is limited, but the vibes and energy are immaculate. The drink menu consists of a variety of cocktails—categorized by style and era (shaken, stirred, and old-school classics), wine by the glass and bottle, and local beers. 

Happy hour is available from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm on the weekdays and consists of small bites, $5 beer, and $1 off all wine and cocktails. a.bar is first come, first serve therefore we recommend arriving promptly at 4:00 pm when the restaurant and bar opens up. View a.bar’s menu and hours here.

Harp & Crown—.61 mile drive from The Annex & The Touraine

Photo: Harp & Crown

If you’re looking for a fun spot to grab drinks after work, Harp & Crown is the place to be. Harp & Crown combines the best of both worlds—a two-lane bowling alley and a cocktail bar and kitchen. The restaurant itself is pretty expansive with a 32-seat bar and multiple indoor and outdoor dining areas. 

Start your evening with drinks at the bar and then work your way downstairs to the two-lane bowling alley. The happy hour menu consists of a $5 draft beer, $5 glasses of wine, and $6 house craft cocktails. Small bites and plates include whipped ricotta, lamb meatballs, spicy chicken wings, and more.

Happy hour is 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm in the bar and lounge area. View the full happy hour menu and plan your visit here.

Rosy’s Taco Bar—.97 mile drive from The Annex & The Touraine

Photo: Rosy’s Taco Bar

Happy hour isn’t complete without margaritas, chips, and dip. Rosy’s Taco Bar is a vibrant Mexican-inspired restaurant and bar located just a few blocks from the Schuylkill River. 

Rosy’s makes the list as one of our favorite happy hour spots in the city for the wide variety of food options available. All small bites are $5 and include items such as loaded nachos, chicken or carnitas tacos, quesadillas, and more. Happy hour drinks include draft beers, Mexican wine, and a house margarita each for just $5.

Enjoy happy hour Monday through Thursday from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm. View the full happy hour menu here.

Outdoor Happy Hour in Philadelphia

If you’re looking to take happy hour outside, check out our blog where we highlight our favorite places to grab a drink with a view. If you’re still on the hunt for more recommendations, ask our front desk staff—we’d be more than happy to help.