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Oh honey, have you ever sipped a cocktail while feeling the soft summer breeze and gazing upon the panoramic beauty of Philadelphia? If not, it's high time you discovered the joys of rooftop bar hopping in the City of Brotherly Love. 

Philadelphia is not just about the Liberty Bell or that mouthwatering cheesesteak you've heard so much about. Its culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, and we're taking it to new heights — literally!

Rooftop bars are all the rage. Lounging high above the city streets, a carefully crafted cocktail in hand, savory bites on the table or in front of the fire pit, breathtaking views all around you — what could be better? The vibe is unbeatable, the food is a gastronomic delight, and the drink offerings can make even the most seasoned connoisseur nod in approval.

We're exploring everything from the hidden gems to boujee lounges to classic summertime hangouts when it comes to the wide, wonderful variety in Philadelphia’s rooftop bars. This isn't just a list — it's your passport to a deliciously daring night out in Philadelphia. 

Are you ready to raise the roof? Or sit on it, at least.

1. Bok Bar, South Philly’s Sky High Secret

Bok Bar is South Philly’s little secret hidden in the sky. Originally a school, the Bok Building now schools Philly on what a rooftop restaurant and bar should be. And trust us, it’s worth all the rooftop rage!

When it comes to the food and drinks, Bok Bar plays it like a pro by teaming up with local culinary wizards to provide you with the finest eats and the most variety you could possibly imagine. And because they don’t have a dedicated, in-house menu, you can revisit Bok Bar many times and always find something new to savor while you sip.

And the drinks, honey, are to die for. Bok Bar’s cocktail menu is seasonal and thoughtful, pairing perfectly with your food and the changing Philly skyline. 

The real gem here, though, is the view. With sweeping sights of Philadelphia, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a summer sunset. And the vibe? Oh, it’s the perfect blend of laid-back and trendy. 

So, the next time you're in South Philly, make sure to check out Bok Bar. It's the perfect getaway in the heart of the city.

2. Attico Rooftop for Luxe Vibes on Broad Street

Feeling like stepping it up a notch and getting fancy? Perfect, because as the patron saint of good vibes (Fergie) once said, “A little party never killed nobody.” Attico Rooftop, on the iconic Broad Street Cambria Hotel, is a little piece of luxury perched high above the city streets. This rooftop bar is the epitome of classy, with an edge that keeps things interesting.

The offerings at Attico are as lush as the ambiance itself. The menu features an array of New American cuisine, and everything is so beautifully presented that you'll feel guilty for eating it — for about a second.

Their mixologists know their craft, and it shows in the innovative cocktail list. Each drink is a concoction of flavors that'll make your tastebuds sing. 

They even serve Old Fashioneds on draft, so you can have a new one in your hand faster than you can even think to order it, which is pretty much the ideal situation for a night out in the City of Brotherly Love.

With panoramic sights of the city, this is the place to be if you’re feeling chic and want your Instagram followers to know it. So, for that dash of luxe in your life, Attico Rooftop is where you need to be.

3. East Branch Brewing Company, Beer Heaven in the Clouds

If you’ve ever been sitting in an incredible brewery with good friends on a warm, sunny day — crisp beer in hand, salty nibbles, and delicious savory dishes spread out on the table — it’s hard to imagine things getting any better than that. Well, you don’t have to imagine anymore. 

East Branch Brewing Company checks all of those boxes, and it’s on a rooftop. So, in addition to all the magic we just mentioned, you also get panoramic views.

The food menu mixes all your standard American favorites with some Philadelphia twists that make it feel like home for any Philly fan — from soft pretzels served with beer cheese to a delightful bougie pesto quesadilla and a Buffalo chicken dip that will transport you straight to your last Super Bowl party (or halftime show viewing party, for the rest of us) in the best possible way.

And since they’re a brewery, you can trust them for a refreshing and unique pint. From hoppy IPAs to session-able light lagers, tasty dark stouts, and Belgian-inspired whites, there’s something very every kind of beer lover at East Branch Brewing Company.

If you’re not big on beer, East Branch Brewing Company has you covered with a range of tasty cocktails and local wines to keep everyone lubricated and ready to have the best night out you can (or can’t) remember.

4. Assembly Rooftop Lounge, So You Can Sip, Snack, and See the City

If the idea of lounging with the cityscape as your backdrop, a glass of fine wine in your hand, and some gourmet nibbles within reach sound tempting, you're in luck because Assembly Rooftop Lounge brings this vision to life!

This Logan Square spot serves up some delightfully unique food options that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy. Whether you want a meaty and savory charcuterie board or a classic lobster roll to pair with a crisp white wine on a hot day, Assembly offers a wide range of small plates that are as perfect for a light meal for one as they are shared amongst a big group to taste as many options as possible.

The Logan Hotel’s rooftop spot’s wine and cocktail list is just as impressive. From crisp whites and bold reds to an eclectic range of handcrafted cocktails — there's a drink for every mood and every food pairing. 

But what truly sets Assembly apart is the incredible panoramic view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It's the perfect place to see the city in all its glory with a glass of bubbly in hand. So, make a beeline for Assembly Rooftop Lounge next time you want to treat yourself to some fancy sips and bites.

5. Stratus Rooftop Lounge, the Old City’s Crown Jewel

Ready for some old-world charm mixed with modern sophistication? Welcome to Stratus Rooftop Lounge, the crown jewel of Old City. Nestled on the 11th floor of the Kimpton Hotel Monaco, this lounge is where history and modernity meet for a cocktail — or two!

Stratus's food menu is as enticing as its atmosphere. Think delicious Mediterranean mezze plates piled high with whipped ricotta, marinated olives, and Marcona almonds or a heaping pile of house-cut chips with parmesan, prosciutto, sea salt, and olive oil. Each bite promises a burst of flavor that will have you coming back for more. 

The drink offerings are equally impressive. Whether you're a fan of classic cocktails, innovative mixology, or a neat pour, Stratus's extensive drink list caters to every palate. With fireplaces and lush greenery surrounding you, you'll feel like you're in an urban oasis. So, next time you find yourself in Old City, take a detour to Stratus. You won't regret it.

6. XIX (Nineteen) for Classy Dining in the Philly Skyline

Last but definitely not least, we present XIX (Nineteen), the epitome of classy dining set against the beautiful Philly skyline. This isn't just a rooftop bar, honey; it's an experience!

XIX offers a menu that is truly a feast for the senses. From fresh seafood to succulent steaks, every dish is a work of art, both in presentation and flavor. And the drinks are as exquisite as the food. With a variety of handcrafted cocktails and a well-curated wine list, your glass will never be empty at XIX.

The refined elegance of XIX is evident in every corner. From the beautiful chandelier to the grand piano, the ambiance is pure luxury. Pair this with the stunning views of the city from the nineteenth floor, and you've got a night to remember. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a little fine dining, XIX is the place to be. 

Honorable Mentions

  • Revolution House
  • The Continental Mid-Town
  • El Techo

The Last Bite

From sipping on delectable cocktails to indulging in some scrumptious bites, every rooftop bar has a new and exciting experience — and a new, stunning view — to offer on this tour of Philadelphia’s best rooftop bars with food. Each place is a reflection of Philadelphia's eclectic character and vibrant nightlife.

It's not just about the food and drinks, darlings. It's about the entire experience: the ambiance, the view, the vibe, and, of course, the joy of discovering something new and exciting. Isn't that what makes life just a little more fabulous?

So step out of your comfort zone and embrace these high-altitude culinary escapades. From rooftop brunch to ladies happy hour, from fancy tacos and margaritas to craft beer and comfy couches, from natural wines in the open air to standard taps in center city, you’ll find a rooftop made just for you. 

Make your way through the city skyline, one fabulous rooftop bar at a time. And when you do, remember, there's no such thing as too much of a good thing.

Sources:

Home | Bok Bar

Home | Attico Rooftop

Home | East Branch Brewing Company

Home | Assembly Rooftop Lounge

Home | Stratus Rooftop Lounge

Home | XIX (Nineteen)

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