Should you venture to the city of brotherly love, you'll find much more than cheesesteaks and water ice. In tandem with its burgeoning food scene, Philadelphia has caught the cocktail bug, too.
Of course, we love a cold Yuengling, but barflies can rest assured--a well-mixed drink is always close at hand. Here's where to head:
APO Bar and Lounge Although it doesn't peddle any traditional medicinal tinctures, APO (short for "apothecary"; pictured) does specialize in whimsical elixirs that'll ameliorate any condition. The Lancaster Winter Fix, a tonic for cold weather, swirls bourbon with maple syrup, sassafras apple butter, lemon and absinthe. 102 S. 13th St.; 215-735-7500 or apothecarylounge.com
The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company In tribute to Max ‘Boo Boo' Hoff's legendary front for a Prohibition-era booze ring, The Franklin is a glimpse at back-room speakeasies circa 1919. Slip into a candlelit banquette, order up a Spry Friar Cocktail (click here to download the recipe) and tip your hat to Boo Boo, who's immortalized in a mural overhead. 112 S. 18th St.; 267-467-3277 or thefranklinbar.com
SouthWark Serving up impeccable Aviations and sway-inducing mai tais alongside superbly sourced food, this South Philly bar is the city's cocktail pioneer. Bartender Kip Waide keeps a covet-worthy spirits collection, specializing in rye and gin--including Bluecoat, Philadelphia's very own creation. 701 S. Fourth St.; 215-238-1888 or southwarkrestaurant.com
Village Whiskey This brown spirits debutante boasts celebrity chef Jose Garces and more than 130 whiskies. The menu--divided into ‘Prohibition' and ‘Repeal'--offers classics as well as cheeky reinventions, such as the Corpse Reviver 2.5, which promises to cure any hangover when it's paired with a foie gras-loaded cheeseburger and duck-fat fries. 118 S. 20th St.; 215-665-1088 or villagewhiskey.com
