The Ranstead Room

Listen. That's one hell of a place to go on a date! Beautiful, sensual, and dark atmosphere (even from the outside and the room for the reservations), comfortable booths, open till late at night, and limited seats (yes, you'll probably need a reservation, but it will never get overcrowded!). Con: Bathroom's a bit... bad... to put it in a good way. The music was great and just on the right level to easily have a conversation. The service was on point with a good bartender and great waiters who knew the drinks. The only downside was the price for the drinks (which were great overall), the portions for them, and how short the selection was. I'm sure they'd be able to list a few more interesting drinks other than 3× of each classic one. And $17-20 for a cocktail and $19 for a glass of wine that came in a can? Hmmmmm, I don't know... You can be the judge of that.

My friends and I went to this place for drinks. Very limited food options 😕 since its speakeasy bar. The ambience was good, all dark and music. We had bartender choice, margaritas (opt 1 ), creative control and lawless doings. The minimum price is like 17$ and the quantity was very less. Overall its a good place if you want to go out on a date. Note: they don't take online reservations and sometimes the wait time is like 1 hour. Overall I would recommend this place if you want to try some fancy drinks.

I've been here a few times, it's a fun place to bring people because of the whole speakeasy vibe. They don't take reservations so it's hit or miss if you can actually get in. Drinks are hit or miss for me too. Over time I've done drinks from the menu and the bartenders choice. I know it sounds silly but I really dislike the ice they use! It's like ice chips which cheapens the drinks, which seems to go against the suave swanky vibe. I got the pickle mule this time though and really liked it.

What sets Philadelphia apart from any other city in the United States? Or even...the world? It is scenes like this. Let's be honest, you'll be asked to take a deep breath and hold it as you walk down Ranstead Street toward that red, glowing beacon - and you'll have to endure the wait - 30 min....45 min...60 min...2 hours to enter this legendary speakeasy! But with a little patience, an experience will reveal what makes this city truly great - something priceless...an attentive, skilled, worldly bartender...plus the music and atmosphere - plucked straight out of Havana or Panama City or...well - you choose? What else? A cocktail (or two? or three?) made to perfection, validating the long, arduous, enduring wait time. The Ranstead Room has been a staple in Philadelphia for over a decade. Its legend, prestige, and reputation rests in the more than capable hands of its staff - and hands down, Nico is a legend. Highly Recommend - 5 stars!