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. 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. For this edition, I visited Vintage Wine Bar & Bistro, one of this year’s participating bars at the 10th Anniversary Audi FEASTIVAL.

Situated on 13th Street just south of Sansom, Vintage touts a wine list of more than 60 selections from around the world. Even with such an extensive list, it’s much more than just a wine bar. Walking up to the large open window, I’m reminded of the sidewalk bistros that adorn Paris’ throughways. Behind the white marble bar, I was pleasantly surprised to see my buddy Anthony. As we were catching up, Nicky from Charlie was a Sinner moseyed in and shared some new menu items from their vegan eatery. Right time, right place for sure!

The aforementioned wine list features not only wines by the glass or bottle, but also rotating flights of 3-ounce pours. You’ll also find off-list wines offered daily.

Wine Flights at Vintage Wine Bar and Bistro

As for the more than a wine bar part, Vintage sports a local draft list, a comprehensive bottle beer list, and a wine-centric cocktail list that one could probably call underrated. Whiskey is often my go-to, and my choice for the night, the Manhattan Port Authority, was a no-brainer. Evidenced by the first word in the name, this offering is a spin on the classic cocktail. Instead of utilizing sweet vermouth to bring balance to the rye, Vintage goes with a different fortified wine and pairs it with ruby port. Garnished with an orange twist, the Port Authority is wonderfully balanced with a subtle citrus undertone from the orange bitters.

The Juniper Mist at Vintage Wine Bar and Bistro

One detail to not overlook: the kitchen closes at 12 during the week and 1 am on the weekends. So grab some grub with that post-shift drink!