Penn is tough and sometimes we all need a break. Luckily, you’re never too far away from a trendy bar. So, let’s take a look at some of the best happy hours around.
City Tap House:
Sparkling Sangria
Let’s start on campus. If you’re looking to make your evening review session a little more joyful, head to City Tap House between 5 and 7 p.m. on weekdays. Their happy hour menu offers discounted beers and my personal favorite: sparkling sangria, made with champagne and blood orange. The drink is incredibly sweet—something resembling a highbrow fruit punch. Get a couple glasses, or maybe a pitcher, and kick back and grind through the review.
TL;DR: Brews and exam reviews, with sangria thrown in.
Location: 3925 Walnut Street
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 11:30 a.m.–12:00 a.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m.
Price: $4 Beers, $5 Bites, $6 Sparkling Sangria
New Deck Tavern:
Baileys hot chocolate
If you wish you had studied abroad in Dublin, New Deck Tavern is a good choice. The brick–walled bar is littered with Irish flags and serves a mean Baileys hot chocolate. It might be covered in whipped cream, but it packs a punch. If that’s not enough, consider that most of the bartenders have Irish accents, which makes their happy hours feel that much more authentic.
TL;DR: Like going abroad as a second semester senior.
Location: 3408 Sansom Street
Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 a.m.
Price: $4 beers and $5 Baileys hot chocolate
Bernie’s:
A beer at Bernie's
Next is Bernie’s. This brand new restaurant and bar has an incredibly modern feel with large fireplaces and leather seats. The cocktails aren’t too exciting, but with over ten different beers on tap, you should find something you like. Just be warned, the beers are I tried were very strong — not exactly chugging material. If you aren’t a beer drinker, there’s always wine too.
TL;DR: Skip the cocktails, go for the beers at this new Sansom addition
Location: 3432 Sansom Street
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 11:30 a.m.–2:00 a.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 a.m.
Price: $6 beers
Misconduct Tavern:
Moscow Mule
In case you’re hoping to get off campus, you can’t go wrong with Misconduct Tavern. The 19th century ship–themed bar has plenty of flat screen TVs and overall happy vibes. The bar has a wide selection of beers on tap, but if you’re looking for a real treat, try their house favorite Moscow Mule, which offers a nice balance of ginger and lime. It’s guaranteed to make you forget about any lingering work. Happy hour is weekdays from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
TL;DR: Rowdy atmosphere with interesting cocktail choices.
Location: 1511 Locust Street
Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 11:30 a.m.–2:00 a.m.
Price: $7 cocktails
Alma de Cuba:
Mojito
And if you’re in the mood to have a really good time, let me introduce you to my new favorite spot: Alma de Cuba. Usually known for its Cuban food, Alma de Cuba serves the best mojito ever crafted by man. Served with mint leaves and a sugar cane, the mojito is as tasty as it is strong. If you’re feeling extra bold, ask for a second stick of sugar cane. You won't be able to resist ordering another glass. So, drop what you’re doing and go visit a small piece of Cuban paradise tucked away on picturesque 15th and Walnut.
TL;DR: A little piece of Cuba, mojitos and all.
Location: 1623 Walnut Street
Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 4:00 pm–11:00 pm
Friday–Saturday: 4:00 pm–12:00 am
Sunday: 4:00 pm–10:00 pm
Price: $6 drinks
