I’d like to share with you some of my favorite “drinking establishments” in Philadelphia with a little twist!  The idea came to me as I noticed many themed bars popping up in the city. As we live in a culturally rich city, I thought I’d give you a little lesson on the fun side of history. No, I’m not going to start all the way back in 1860 when McGillan’s opened. Though since then, Philadelphia has accumulated a ton of hidden treasures.  So let’s start with one of my favorite decades the Roaring 20’s!

1920’s

When I first thought about this piece it was really the 1920’s that got me excited.  With pop culture references on the rise, such as HBO’s Boardwalk Empire, and new “speakeasy themed” drinking establishments popping up in Philly, it makes me really wish I could have hang out just one night in the 1920’s.  I’d like to highlight some of my favorite bars that take me back to this era.

With a name like Prohibition Taproom this was an obvious establishment to feature.   What’s not obvious about it is the location. Located on 13^th street this hidden gem really nails it when it comes to the beer selection.   Rumor has it the building was actually a speakeasy in the 1920s.   If you are in this neighbored and happen to see the red neon “Bar” sign, you’ve arrived!

The only way to find the next hidden gem, Rittenhouses’ Ranstead Room, is to know exactly where it is in advance, because trust me it doesn’t stand out!   You have to be “in the know” to find this Stephen Star “speakeasy.”   (Fun Fact: It’s actually attached to El Rey, Star’s newer Mexican Diner/Restaurant!)

Don’t be confused.  Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company is not a bank!  It’s actually a bar that dates back to the 1920s and was one of Philadelphia’s biggest illegal alcohol rings in the country.  Now legally run, the bar serves unbelievable cocktails, and they call their bartenders artists.   If you go, try the green liquor invented by Monks!

Lastly, since I was so intrigued by the media rumors flying around about Hop Sing Laundromat, I paid them a special trip. You can read all about my recent experience at the newest secret spot in town.

1930’s

Perhaps one of the most iconic Philadelphia moments occurred in the 1930s: The Philly cheesesteak was invented!  Besides the Liberty Bell, the sandwich has probably become the most recognized symbol of our city’s history. To make matters even better during this decade, the Phillies were one of the best Baseball teams in the league! It’s amazing the amount of pride that is still held in both of these Philadelphia attributes which is why I felt it was important to mention both.

Prohibition actually did not end until the early 30s. Another “prohibition themed” bar in Philadelphia is The Farmers’ Cabinet. It’s casual, rustic style and extensive cocktail list make it a great spot to travel back in time for a couple hours.  The Farmer’s Cabinet features live jazz which you can catch 5 days a week!  I was able to go and check it out, it’s a fabulous addition to the restaurant scene in Philadelphia.

Part 2 and Part 3 of “Dancing & Drinking Through the Decades”  is now posted as well.   Enjoy!