06/08/08

Latest hot spot in the city...

by MCS673

Was at Apothecary this past weekend. It was amazing! Despite the fact that we had to wait outside (in a long line!) to get in, when we finally did, our group had a blast. Sure, the place was standing room only, but it was still loads of fun. I've been to Apothecary a number times before, and each time was able to enjoy a few unique cocktails from their list, as well as some tasty food. Friday was an exception to my experience...albeit crowded, the energy was insane! The waitstaff and bartenders were attentive despite the crowd, and although we may have waited a little longer for service, this didn't take away from the night in the least.

So nice to have another option to the nightlife here in Philadelphia. I've spent a lot of weekend nights at the same places in Old City...Apothecary is a welcome addition to the bar scene in Center City!

• Pros: Out of this world cocktail list, beer/wine selection, atmosphere
• Cons: Waiting in line to get in (the price you pay I guess!)

06/07/08

Good lighting, not much else- falls short of it's own self-promotion.

by jimmyhatt

Honestly, Apothecary simply does not live up to the hype.

Though they do have interesting and unique drinks, the service, basic bar and atmosphere leave much to be desired.

In one evening, not our first, our party of 7 had to wait outside for an extended period of time- only to be forced to be seated at a table downstairs (when we had asked to go upstairs) for 4. When we pointed out that we could not fit there- and that we couldn't stand per their rules- the "bouncer" told us to squeeze or leave. We left.

On other evenings, the food has been mediocre at best- and overpriced- and the bar has run out of basic liquors. Hardly a good start for a bar. The atmosphere is nice- but nothing really sets it apart from the multitude of other new (and even the mainstays) of the neighborhood.

We gave it three tries to get it right- I think that is fair- and we are going to give it a rest. In the end, it is over-priced, seems to be poorly managed, and some of the staff is outright mean. There are many better options; you don't even have to look very far.

• Pros: Lighting, Roof Deck, Specialty Drinks
• Cons: Poor Seating, Long Waits, Overpriced, Poor Crowd Management, Run Out Of Basics

05/30/08

An escape from the conventional

by nys26

I have to start by saying that Apothecary offers the most original and non-conventional drink menu I?ve ever seen. I told the bartender I was getting over a cold and he dug into his arsenal of fresh herbs, fruits and spices and presented me with a special concoction mixed with Echinacea. I felt much better after that first drink but must admit it was probably the alcohol. The music is great, the vibe is right, the people are beautiful, the food is delectable and the staff is on point. Needless to say, we stayed there all night when I probably should have stayed in bed. Can't wait to check out their newly opened rooftop. Should be a great happy hour hang out.

• Pros: Atmosphere, people, music, food, drinks, staff