As an industry worker zipping around on your feet all day, the best part of the day is enjoying a shift drink: a post-work alcoholic beverage to decompress, take a load off, and yes, enjoy a nice buzz before heading home to bed. In this series, we’ll be exploring the many fantastic bar programs of Philadelphia where you can treat yourself after a hard day’s work. This time I opted for a late night spot that is, quite literally, off the beaten path.
Tucked away on 20th and Ranstead Streets behind El Rey is The Ranstead Room, a “secret” bar that you’ll find with a black door branded with double R’s. Once you find the place, open the metal door and walk up the stairs to find the host. Ranstead does not allow for standing room, so while there may be a slight wait to enter the bar, the policy results in a roomy experience for those enjoying a cocktail once seated. As soon as I entered The Ranstead Room, my eyes certainly needed time to adjust to the dimly-lit environment. However, once adjusted, the atmosphere and old-school digs transport you from the hustle and bustle of Center City into a relaxing “speakeasy” of sorts.
After making my way to the bar, I sat down on one of their snakeskin bar stools, ready for a drink. The drink menu is cocktail forward, starting with five classics: Brooklynite, Old Fashioned, Negroni, Manhattan, and Eastside. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, go for one of their many seasonal beverages made with house-infused mixers, such as ancho chile infused curacao. Sometimes after a long day at work, even picking a drink may be one too many decisions to make. If that’s the case, leave the decision up to the professionals by ordering the Bartender’s Choice. As the namesake suggests, a Ranstead Room bartender will whip you up something special after you give them some guidance as to what you are in the mood for or what spirits/flavors you prefer. In addition to cocktails, the Ranstead Room offers a few wine and beer choices.
If you’re feeling hungry while sipping, The Ranstead Room has a selection of quick eats supplied by the adjoining El Rey, Starr’s Puebla and Veracruz-inspired restaurant. Since Ranstead is located literally behind El Rey, you can order from their kitchen until midnight, making it a perfect all-in-one late night spot. Split a cheese plate with your date, or snack on some diablo huevos. If you’re just looking for some bar snacks, go for the popcorn, with your choice of buttered, jamaica morita (a type of chipotle), or chocolate mezcal.
The Ranstead Room allows you to decompress post-shift at their candle-lit bar or in a cozy booth surrounded by vintage boudoir decor. So open up the discreetly marked door and escape the commotion of the city for a drink or two.
Address: 2013 Ranstead St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hours: Sunday – Monday, 6 PM – 2 AM
