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2014's Top New Cocktail Bars In Philadelphia

Cocktails are an enjoyable treat often enjoyed with friends. Sometimes, they are a nice way to wind down at the end of the day, or shared as part of a celebration. There are always new bars opening in Philly each year, and to be successful they have to rival the competition or provide a new spin to your evening out. Whether you are looking for something classic, tropical or just a bit swanky, here at the top five new cocktail bars that opened in 2014 in Philly.

Bank & Bourbon
Lowes Hotel lobby
1200 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 231-7300
www.bankandbourbon.com

Bank & Bourbon opened its doors with a warm and lovely décor, swanky cocktails and fine dining. You may want to visit during its happy hour which is from 5 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. During happy hour, you can select from a menu of about three different tapas-style appetizers and three different cocktails for $5.50 each. The ambiance is lush and the food and cocktails are top shelf.

Charlie Was a Sinner
131 S. 13th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(267) 758-5372
www.charliewasasinner.com

Charlie Was a Sinner's tagline is "small plates, strong drinks." And overwhelmingly, the customers agree. The small plates give foodies the opportunity to try a variety of different types of dishes and some popular options include the potato croquettes and the chickpea fries. The menu is vegetarian, which is a nice option for those with special diets or who prefer vegetarian options. The cocktail list is exactly what you are looking for when you are going out to enjoy some high-end drinks. A recommended drink is "The Bramble." As far as atmosphere goes, the interior is as swanky as the drinks, so this is a nice option for a special occasion.

Related: Top Sports Bars In Philadelphia

Crow & Pitcher
267 S.19th St.
Philadelphia, PA. 19103
(267) 687-2608
www.crowandthepitcher.com

Rittenhouse Square is already a place where many venture to enjoy some shopping and cocktails. The Crow & Pitcher joined the area in 2014 and people seem to love it. Customers enjoy the casual but upscale atmosphere and their favorite cocktails seem to be the brunch beverages (mimosas and bloody marys). Both are described as delicious and a good value. You can also get a free brunch drink from visiting Crow & Pitcher's Facebook page. Customers also rave about the cheese selection and the beer flights.

Related: Top Spots of Sangria in Philly

The Gaslight
120 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 925-7691
www.thegaslightphilly.com

In the evening, gas lamps adorn this brick and wood bar, making the atmosphere sophisticated yet laid back. The Gaslight is spacious, the food is described as incredible and the drinks are taken seriously. Upscale bar snacks are offered (no peanuts here!), so you can try food like whiskey-caramel-mustard wings or foie gras crostini. Drinks are $10 but are $5 at happy hour. Brunch is also available on Saturday and Sunday mornings and should be on your "do not miss" list.

The Yachtsman
1444 Frankford Ave.
Philadelphia, PA. 19125
(267) 909-8740
www.yachtsmanbar.com

If you are looking for something tropical, the Yachtsman may be the choice for cocktails. This Hawaiian-themed tiki bar is owned and operated by Tommy Up (Emmanuelle, PYT) and serves up fun cocktails. Some of the most raved about drinks are the Pina Colada and the Tree Frog, and all are made from fresh ingredients. The Yachtsman does not have a food menu so this cocktail bar is best enjoyed before or after a meal.

Christina Dagnelli is a freelance writer in Philadelphia and the author of Little Squares with Colors: A Different way to look at autism. Her work on examiner can be found here Examiner.com.

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