South Street in Philadelphia is one of the city’s most iconic and vibrant neighborhoods, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and most importantly, bars. This bustling street is a cultural hub, bringing together locals and tourists alike to enjoy good food, music, and drinks. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back dive bar, a trendy cocktail lounge, or a spot to enjoy live music with your favorite beer, South Street has it all.
In this guide, we will explore some of the best bars on South Street in Philadelphia, providing you with a variety of options for your next night out. From dive bars with character to upscale cocktail lounges, there’s something for everyone on this lively strip.
1. Tattooed Mom
Address: 530 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
One of the most beloved bars on South Street, Tattooed Mom is known for its funky, artsy atmosphere and creative cocktails. This bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking for a laid-back vibe with plenty of personality. The walls are covered in colorful street art and graffiti, creating an edgy, underground feel.
Tattooed Mom is famous for its rotating drink specials and affordable menu, which includes everything from burgers to vegan snacks. If you’re into craft beer, they’ve got a solid selection of local brews, and their cocktails are always fun and inventive. The upstairs lounge area features bumper car seating and arcade games, making it a great place to hang out with friends.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Artsy, eclectic, and laid-back
- Signature Drink: Mom’s House Punch
- Food: Yes, with vegan options
- Live Entertainment: Occasional art events and parties
2. Bob & Barbara’s Lounge
Address: 1509 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
For a truly authentic South Street experience, head over to Bob & Barbara’s Lounge. This dive bar is a Philadelphia institution, known for its legendary “Citywide Special” – a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon and a shot of Jim Beam for a great price. Bob & Barbara’s has been a staple in the community for over 50 years, offering a no-frills atmosphere where you can enjoy cheap drinks, great live music, and a fun crowd.
The bar is also famous for its live jazz, particularly on Friday nights when the house band, The Crowd Pleasers, takes the stage. You can expect a packed house and lively atmosphere. Bob & Barbara’s is also home to one of the longest-running drag shows in the city, hosted every Thursday night.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Dive bar, classic Philly charm
- Signature Drink: The Citywide Special
- Food: No
- Live Entertainment: Jazz, drag shows, karaoke
3. Fat Tuesday
Address: 431 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
If you’re in the mood for frozen cocktails and a lively party atmosphere, Fat Tuesday is the place to go. This bar brings a taste of New Orleans to South Street, offering an array of frozen daiquiris and tropical cocktails. It’s a popular spot, especially in the summer, where you can grab a fruity drink to cool off while walking around the neighborhood.
Fat Tuesday is casual and fun, with a big focus on its selection of frozen drinks, which come in souvenir cups. The laid-back vibe makes it an ideal stop for tourists and groups of friends looking for a fun night out.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Fun, casual, party atmosphere
- Signature Drink: Frozen Daiquiris (multiple flavors)
- Food: No
- Live Entertainment: Occasionally hosts themed events
4. MilkBoy South Street
Address: 401 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
MilkBoy South Street is part bar, part live music venue, making it a great spot to grab a drink and catch a live show. This location is an extension of the original MilkBoy in Center City, offering an intimate setting with great acoustics for live performances. The bar has a cool, hipster vibe, with an excellent selection of craft beers and creative cocktails.
The venue frequently hosts local and touring bands, so you can expect a good mix of live music, from indie rock to electronic beats. In addition to its drinks and entertainment, MilkBoy South Street serves up a solid menu with classic bar food, including burgers, wings, and nachos.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Hip, live music venue
- Signature Drink: South Street Mule
- Food: Yes, full menu
- Live Entertainment: Live music, open mic nights
5. The Twisted Tail
Address: 509 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
If you’re looking for a Southern-inspired spot with a strong whiskey selection, The Twisted Tail should be at the top of your list. Located just off South Street, this bar and restaurant is a whiskey lover’s paradise, with over 200 whiskeys on the menu. It has a rustic, yet refined atmosphere, featuring live blues music that perfectly complements the Southern-style food and craft cocktails.
The Twisted Tail is known for its bourbon and whiskey flights, giving you the chance to sample some rare and hard-to-find spirits. The food menu features Southern classics like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits, making it an ideal spot for dinner and drinks.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Sophisticated, Southern charm
- Signature Drink: Whiskey flights
- Food: Yes, Southern-inspired cuisine
- Live Entertainment: Live blues music
6. Jet Wine Bar
Address: 1525 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
If you’re more of a wine enthusiast, Jet Wine Bar offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy a carefully curated selection of wines from around the world. Known as Philadelphia’s “global vineyard,” Jet Wine Bar features wines from lesser-known regions, offering a unique experience for those looking to expand their wine knowledge.
In addition to wine, the bar also serves up some fun cocktails and small plates that pair perfectly with their extensive wine list. Jet Wine Bar has a cozy, intimate vibe, making it a great spot for a date night or a casual evening out with friends.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Cozy, wine-centric
- Signature Drink: Wines by the glass
- Food: Yes, small plates
- Live Entertainment: No, but occasional wine tastings and events
7. O’Neals Pub
Address: 611 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
For a true neighborhood pub experience, O’Neals Pub is a fantastic choice. This Irish pub is a favorite for those looking to enjoy a cold beer, friendly conversation, and a laid-back environment. O’Neals offers a rotating selection of local craft beers, as well as a menu featuring hearty pub food like fish and chips, burgers, and wings.
O’Neals has been a South Street staple for decades, and its longevity is a testament to its welcoming atmosphere and loyal customer base. Sports fans will appreciate the multiple TVs showing all the big games, and trivia nights add an extra element of fun to your evening.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Classic Irish pub
- Signature Drink: Guinness
- Food: Yes, traditional pub fare
- Live Entertainment: Trivia nights, sports
8. Manny Brown’s
Address: 512 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Manny Brown’s is a South Street favorite, offering a casual and comfortable spot to enjoy a drink with friends. Known for its great beer selection, Manny Brown’s has something for every beer lover, from domestic favorites to local craft brews. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a low-key night out.
In addition to drinks, Manny Brown’s offers a menu with classic bar food staples like wings, nachos, and sandwiches. If you’re looking for a place to kick back and enjoy a few drinks without the fuss, Manny Brown’s is a great choice.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Laid-back, casual
- Signature Drink: Craft beer selection
- Food: Yes, bar food
- Live Entertainment: No, but great for watching sports
9. South Street Souvlaki
Address: 509 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
For a more unique experience, South Street Souvlaki offers a combination of Greek cuisine and a fully stocked bar. While primarily known as a restaurant, this spot also boasts a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails to accompany your meal. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a standout on South Street.
Enjoying a drink with a plate of freshly prepared souvlaki or spanakopita is a fantastic way to spend an evening here. While it’s not a typical “bar,” South Street Souvlaki offers a refreshing alternative for those looking for something different.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Cozy, Mediterranean
- Signature Drink: Greek wines and cocktails
- Food: Yes, Greek cuisine
- Live Entertainment: Occasionally hosts Greek music nights
10. Lorenzo’s Pizza (BYOB)
Address: 305 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Although Lorenzo’s Pizza is primarily known for its giant slices of pizza, it’s also a popular BYOB spot. It’s a casual, no-frills pizza joint that allows patrons to bring their own beer or wine to enjoy with their slice. The combination of late-night pizza and the ability to bring your own drinks makes it a great spot to end your night on South Street.
There’s nothing quite like grabbing a slice after a night out and enjoying it with your favorite beverage, so if you’re on South Street late at night, Lorenzo’s is a must-visit.
Highlights:
- Vibe: Casual, BYOB
- Signature Drink: Bring your own!
- Food: Yes, pizza
- Live Entertainment: No
Final Words
South Street in Philadelphia offers a diverse and exciting range of bars, each with its own unique vibe and appeal. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back night at a dive bar, an evening of live music, or a classy cocktail, you’ll find the perfect spot to suit your mood. From iconic venues like Tattooed Mom and Bob & Barbara’s Lounge to more refined experiences like The Twisted Tail and Jet Wine Bar, South Street is a destination that promises an unforgettable night out.
With so many great options, all within walking distance, you can easily hop from one bar to the next and explore the best of what South Street has to offer. So next time you’re planning a night out in Philadelphia, be sure to make South Street your go-to destination for drinks, entertainment, and good times.
