Philadelphia Nightlife Spots

If you're into live music and good food, Chris’ Jazz Café is a Philly gem you’ve got to check out. Tucked into Sansom Street in Center City, this laid-back jazz spot hosts everything from rising local talent to nationally touring acts. Music kicks off at 8:00 every night, and there’s usually a small cover—totally worth it for the vibe.

Highlights:

• Live jazz every night starting at 8:00 PM
• Rotating mix of local and national performers
• Happy hour specials, including service industry nights
• Full bar with creative cocktails, wine, and beer
• Cozy, intimate venue in the heart of Center City

Food & Drinks:

The kitchen serves up Cajun-inspired comfort food from lunch to late night—think gourmet burgers, shrimp po’boys, and plenty of hearty plates to pair with your drink. The cocktail menu’s fun and inventive, but you can also just grab a pint or a solid glass of wine.

1421 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Phone: 215-568-3131
chrisjazzcafe.com

If you’re looking for a no-frills Philly classic with serious personality, Bob and Barbara’s Lounge is the move. This South Street dive has been keeping things real since 1969 and is home to the legendary “Citywide Special”—a PBR and a shot of Jim Beam for just a few bucks. It’s got that gritty, lovable charm and a whole lot of history behind the bar.

Highlights:

• Home of the original “Citywide Special” deal
• Live jazz on Fridays and Saturdays from the Crowd Pleasers
• Miss Lisa’s famous Thursday night drag show
• Zero cover charge (21+ only)
• Dive bar vibes with a super friendly, come-as-you-are crowd

Atmosphere:

Expect strong drinks, good tunes, and a mix of locals and visitors just looking to have a good time. The Hammond B-3 organ jazz is known as “Liquor Drinking Music” for a reason—this place is all about the vibe. Whether you're here for the music or the drag show, you're guaranteed a fun night out.

1509 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Phone: 215-545-4511
bobandbarbaras.com

Nightlife Date Ideas

For bold flavors and even bolder vibes, Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar in Old City is where it’s at. Open since 2000, this spot brings the energy of Havana nights to Philly, serving up Criollo-style Cuban dishes that blend South American, African, Asian, and Spanish influences. It’s the kind of place where you come for the food and stay for the party.

Highlights:

• Authentic Cuban flavors with global flair
• Lively weekend nightclub with salsa, merengue, and bachata
• VIP lounge tables with bottle service and custom cocktails
• Pitchers of sangria and mojitos perfect for sharing
• Located in the heart of Philly’s Old City

Vibe:

Come for dinner and enjoy dishes packed with flavor, then stick around as the place transforms into a full-on dance party every Friday and Saturday night. Whether you're on the dance floor or chilling with friends in the VIP lounge, Cuba Libre is all about good music, strong drinks, and nonstop energy.

10 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: 215-627-0666
cubalibrerestaurant.com

Once a go-go bar, now one of South Philly’s coolest dance spots, The Dolphin Tavern blends throwback vibes with a modern edge. Since its revamp in 2013, this neon-lit hangout has become known for its craft beer taps, quirky decor, and high-energy dance parties that draw an artsy, diverse crowd every night of the week.

Highlights:

• Rainbow-lit neon wall inspired by the old go-go dance floor
• Rotating craft beer selection from local and national breweries
• Weekly dance nights like Club Congress and Danceteria
• LGBTQ+ friendly events and themed parties
• Live music from touring indie and international acts

Vibe:

Expect packed dance floors, nostalgic beats, and a no-judgment zone that’s all about having fun. From early 2000s rap throwbacks to indie-electronic sets from DJs like James Murphy and Matthew Dear, The Dolphin Tavern keeps the energy going ‘til late with something different almost every night.

1539 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-278-7950
dolphinphillyinfo.com

If you’re into funky vibes, great food, and a little bit of nightlife flair, Franky Bradley’s in Midtown Village is a total gem. Originally opened back in 1933, this place has a wild history—legend has it celebs like Elizabeth Taylor and Lucille Ball were regulars. These days, it’s a quirky, LGBT-friendly spot that mixes vintage charm with a solid dose of edge.

Highlights:

• Kitschy decor featuring vintage erotica and taxidermy (yes, really)
• LGBTQ+ friendly with a fun, welcoming vibe
• Craft beer and cocktail selection with a full upscale bar menu
• Popular upstairs nightclub space with regular events
• Frequent drag shows, dance parties, and burlesque performances

Menu Must-Try:

The food’s way better than your average bar fare—think gourmet burgers, shrimp scampi, and juicy skirt steak. Grab a beer or cocktail downstairs before heading up for a show—it’s the kind of place where dinner and entertainment go hand in hand.

1320 Chancellor St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-735-0735
frankybradleys.com

Graffiti Bar is a popular outdoor bar in Philadelphia’s Midtown Village that was opened to the public in April of 2010. The bar’s name comes from its heavily graffitied mural walls, which showcase rotating art installations. Its patio dining space is covered with a state-of-the-art clear ceiling, allowing the sun to shine during warm months but keeping out inclement weather. Pan-Asian cuisine is served, including creative dishes such as Korean barbecue short rib satay, Sriracha sauerkraut egg rolls, and bahn mi pork belly buns. Specialty cocktails change daily, while a wine and beer list offers rotating regional and national favorites.

124 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, Phone: 215-732-3501

If you're looking for a place that feels classy without being pretentious, Infusion Lounge in Old City brings some serious vintage charm. This second-floor hideaway has a Baroque-inspired vibe—think cozy leather couches, marble tables, and just the right amount of old-school glam. It's like stepping into a Gilded Age cocktail lounge, but with a modern twist.

Highlights:

• Elegant lounge setting with moody, vintage décor
• Over 60 whiskeys from around the globe
• Top-shelf cocktails made with fresh, local ingredients
• Craft blends from East Coast distilleries
• Hands-on cocktail classes with pro mixologists

Experience:

Whether you're sipping a small-batch bourbon or learning how to shake up the perfect drink at their Cocktail Culture Co. workshops, Infusion Lounge is all about quality and vibe. Great spot for date nights, chill hangs, or a classy start to your night out.

16 S 2nd St, 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: 267-908-4009
infusionphilly.com