Meet For A Drink Restaurants

Tequilas shows the highbrow side of Mexico’s popular elixir. Soak in a margarita at the outdoor tables, perfectly situated for watching well-put-together Rittenhouse folk cross the corner of Locust and 16th. Inside, a high-ceilinged space provides an elegant backdrop for Owner David Suro’s classic vision. He brought the fruits of his homeland to Philadelphia in 1986, establishing a Mexican presence in the city’s culinary spectrum. Other spots around town have since twisted Mexican fare into a modern adventure, but chef Claudio Soto’s plates continue to showcase a brute traditionalism that brings diners to the root of it all.

Chef Peter Woolsey uses his know-how and talent to create classic French dishes that can be found across various regions in France at Bistrot La Minette. The elegant flair and friendly wait staff give the restaurant a warm and luxuriously casual atmosphere. Try such dishes as the Magret de Canard au Cassis, a pan-roasted duck breast, grilled white asparagus, potato confit, and black currant sauce, or try the Gateau L’Opera, a multi-layered almond sponge cake with chocolate ganache, coffee butter cream, and crème Chantilly. Give Bistrot La Minette a chance—your taste buds will thank you!

Inspired by the architecture and ambiance of the royal courts of India, the Palace at the Ben, located on the bottom floor of the Ben Franklin building, is a study in sophistication. Indian haute cuisine is enhanced by an ornately decorated dining room and a vast selection of cocktails, unique wines and genuine Indian beers. Palace at the Ben invites guests to enjoy unique libations while seated in one of the restaurant's luxurious lounges. The Palace at the Ben uses only the freshest ingredients and the leanest cuts of meat. Authentic dishes like Biryani, Seekh Kabab, Chicken Korma and Lamb …

Alma de Cuba is a Latin vacation, right in the heart of Philadelphia. Located at 1623 Walnut Street, it’s a perfect destination to pop into on the way home from work or for an elegant dinner. The lounge evokes sultry Miami nightlife with a mix of traditional Cuban and contemporary elements, with traditional drinks such as Caipirinhas and Classic Mojitos, which are always specially priced for happy hour. Upstairs, the balcony-style seating and classic décor promise a mellow and sophisticated ambiance. Chef Rodriguez adds novel twists to old world Cuban standards in his "Nuevo Latino" creations, such as Pan Roasted …

Brought to you by the Dilworthtown Inn, the Blue Pear Bistro delivers the same high quality food and service in a more casual environment. This self-proclaimed “hip-storic” bistro offers small and medium plates of playful and inventive comfort foods. Housed in the former Dilworthtown Inn General Store, the location has been revamped to unveil a quiet sophistication. A split-level restaurant, the Blue Pear Bistro’s blue and amber color scheme promotes a laid-back atmosphere. With small plates of Tuna Tartare or Chicken Nuggets with White-Truffle Honey Mustard, and medium plates of Braised Veal Breast and Pan Seared Sea Scallops, guests can …

In a vast dining room alive with fiery colors and a chattering clientele, a procession of gaucho-garbed waiters tote skewers bearing huge cuts of meats. Dozens of diners eagerly wait in line to sample a bountiful salad bar featuring fresh vegetables, hearty soups and fresh-baked breads. This is Chima—Center City’s red-hot churrascaria serving an all-you-can-eat parade of meat in an authentic Southern Brazilian fashion. Toss in a full bar and an extensive wine list highlighted by South American selections and it’s clear that Chima is a Brazilian steakhouse with something to offer everyone.

The space formerly known as Sonoma was recently revamped by dynamic chef and owner Derek Davis. The result is Derek’s, a casual contemporary lounge serving sophisticated comfort food in a family atmosphere. Whether opting to order from their sweeping wine list or to BYO with no additional corkage fee, casual wine drinkers and enthusiasts alike are sure to feel at home. The menu is no less welcoming and offers thoughtful small plates and regular portioned entrees made from sustainable and seasonal ingredients. Sidewalk seating is ideal in the warmer months and conveys a European joie de vivre you’ll be hard-pressed …

Positano Coast, an Aldo Lamberti restaurant, was created to reflect the ambiance, energy and traditions of the Amalfi coast and it has done just that. With a modern twist on classic Italian dishes, Chef Pippo Lamberti brings a quiet sophistication to Philly’s Old City District. Positano Coast has a sleek and progressive open-air design with a cobalt blue floor, dramatically white walls and floor-to ceiling windows. The restaurant is located on the 2nd floor and offers two patios and a terrace for al fresco dining. Positano Coast’s Sopra Lounge is a comfortable and stylish place to enjoy a tasty concoction …