The 18 Best Places to Enjoy a Glass of Wine in Philly
The 18 Best Places to Enjoy a Glass of Wine in Philly
For those that really enjoy a glass, sipping on wine is almost an art form in itself. The basics are usually taught at wine tastings where they teach what to look for and how to enjoy a good wine. Then there’s certifications and exams for the master drinkers to become a Sommelier. Luckily it doesn’t matter where you fit into this equation because Philly has fantastic wine bars that can be enjoyed by everyone. From quaint and cozy wine bars to hustling and bustling wine bars and everything in-between.
After scouring the city and “wining down” as they say, we picked the Best Wine Bars in Philly that we felt had an overall selection and ambiance that can be enjoyed by most. So if you’re in the mood for a nice glass of wine after a long day you cannot go wrong with any of these places. Enjoy!
Fishtown Social
1525 Frankford Ave.
Fishtown’s introduction to the the more “refined” selection of alcoholic drinks, Fishtown Social is the trailblazers. Opening at the time when craft beers ruled the scene, this places provided a great alternate and brought a new vibe to Frankford Ave. Red or White, whatever your preference is, this place has a fantastic inventory of wines.
Jet Wine Bar
1525 South St.
Located near the Broad & South St. intersection this place is easily accessible by public transportation which is an added plus. As for the wine, those looking for great variety especially imported wine will love this place as they boast, “…wines from around the world.” As we took a look at their wine selection we were thoroughly impressed although many of their variety comes by the bottle. However, most are very reasonably priced and worth the purchase if you plan to stay a while. For those looking to accompany your wine with food, this place serves up mostly light entrees including sandwiches, meat & cheese platters, and steak montadito among others. This is a great place for a casual date or to meet up with friends and colleagues.
Cooperage Wine & Whiskey Bar
123 S. 7th
We’re kind of double dipping here because Cooperage also made our list of best places to enjoy Whiskey. However, there is no denying this bar. The ambiance, decor, and of course liquor list makes this a must try. This place has become of of our favorite spots to grab a drink whenever we’re in Center City. So if you’re looking for a very casual place to enjoy your vino, this is definitely the spot.
Vintage Wine Bar
129 S. 13th St.
If you’re looking for another cozy atmosphere to sip your vino, this is the place. Offering up soft lighting and intimate setting vintage does the job for those looking for a date spot or a casual meet up which is why they made our list of the Best Wine Bars in Philly. Serving up over 40 varieties of wine by the glass as well as a great selection of beer and stocked spirits this place has everything you need for a great night. As for their menu enjoy light entrees such as cheese platters or go heartier with selections like burgers, salmon, and flank steak. The food is just as great as the wine so if you’re looking for a great well rounded wine bar, look no further.
Jake’s and Cooper’s Wine Bar
4365 Main St.
Probably Manyunk’s best kept secret for the past 30 years, Jake’s and Cooper’s is a wine lover’s paradise. If you’re serious about your wine, this is where enthusiasts gather over lump crab cakes and pizza while enjoying Jake’s and Cooper’s extensive collection of vino. Perfect spot to enjoy on a date or even if you’re flying solo and want to unwind with a glass of wine and a book.
Zavino Wine Bar
112 S. 13th St. | 3200 Chestnut St.
For those looking for a more casual wine bar, Zavino Wine Bar located in both Center City & University City serves up an awesome selection of wine as well as some of the best brick oven pizza in town. Although light meat & cheese platters are available, heavier platters reign supreme here. Enjoy ravioli, gnocchi, & fettuccini dishes as well as an awesome brick oven pizza section. The atmosphere here is a bit more livelier than other wine bars which creates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a glass and a slice with friends, colleagues or a casual date.
Root
1206 Frankford Ave.
Root has helped to prove that Fishtown isn’t just about beers, burgers, and tacos. Root brings the Center City vibe to Fishtown. To compliment their great food, Root offers a solid selection of wines by the glass. So if you’re in Fishtown and want to pair a great meal with some tasty wine, this is the spot to be.
Tria Café
123 S. 18th St. | 1137 Spruce St.
This is probably most Philadelphian’s go to spot when it comes to wine bars. It’s the quintessential wine bar from the decor down to the menu and wine pairings. You can’t go wrong with this place whether your a casual drinker or a pro, Tria fits the bill. Enjoy domestic and imported wines by the glass or bottle as well as a great selection of craft beers. As for the food this place is strictly light entrees such as meet & cheese platters and sandwiches. This place makes our list of the Best Wine Bars in Philly for its atmosphere that is relaxed so it’s a perfect spot to meet up with friends and colleagues or a laid back date
Tinto
114 S 20th St.
Jamonera
105 S 13th St
Located in what should be “Wine Way” this small stretch of S. 13th is home to several great wine spots. However, when you’re talking about a bar whose soul purpose is to provide customers with the best selection of wine, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place than here. Even if you’re a casual drinker, this places will turn you into a jr. Sommelier.
Tredici Enoteca
114 S 13th St.
This block seems to just breed wine bars. Tredici is a spin-off of Zavino that provides a bright and airy ambiance. The decor is modern and old world and the wine is world class. There’s no shortage of great wines here as the selection is hard to beat anywhere. It’s a must for any wine enthusiast.
Osteria
640 N. Broad St.
Known for its high-end pizza and tasty cuisine this place also is one of the best spots to get a glass of vino. What make makes it extra special is the process in which the wine is served. Each serving is poured in a seasoned glass which was “primed” with whichever wine you select. There’s over 250 wines here at any given time. So that’s a lot of primed glasses.
Panorama
14 N Front St.
One of Philly’s oldest wine bars, Panorama is a solid choice if you’re looking for a great wine in Philly. With over 150 choices for wine by the glass, Panorama’s selection can be a little overwhelming. If you find yourself unable to make a selection, Panorama does over wine flights, which are clutch for indecisive folks such as myself.
Vetri
1312 Spruce St.
Marc Vetri does not disappoint with this flagship restaurant. However, if you plan on coming here be prepared to splurge a bit as this place is definitely on the expensive side. The pre-fixed dinners are what brings the people in but the wines here tend to steal the show. With over 2,500 wines stored int their wine cellar, it would take you about 7 years to try them all if you came every day. That’s a lot of wine.
Townsend
1623 E. Passyunk
Let’s show the French a little love. I mean with all these Italian spots, let’s not forget about the other Europeans that have been cranking out some of the best wines for centuries. This quaint spot offers the best French wines. Whether you’re looking for red, white, orange or sparkling this is a must try.
La Famiglia
8 S. Front St.
Looking for a little exclusivity? La Famiglia offers up a private wine room to try their outstanding selection of wines. If you ever get a chance to stop by here be sure to check out their wine cellar which is kept at the perfect temperature thanks to century old wells. No really it’s crazy. As for the selection it will make your head spin considering there are over 13,000 bottles of wine stored here.
Petruce et al
1121 Walnut St.
Wood fire seems to be a common theme among great wine spots. I guess there something about the smokey aroma that entices the taste buds to crave more wine. Either way, Pectruce et al, combines great food with a fantastic wine selection. It’s chill, laid back and a perfect spot to unwind after a long day.
Paris Wine Bar
2303 Fairmount Ave.
London Grill’s Paris Wine Bar is a gem located in the Art Museum area. What other wine pars offer wine on tap? Very few actually. The draw here is the great wine and the great food next door to provide a 1-2 punch. This is a casual spot with a great selection of wine. Perfect to hang out with some friends during happy hour or an evening date.