Follow along as we taste and sip our way through Philly’s well-known establishments and hidden gems.
Ranstead Room
2013 Ranstead Street, Philadelphia, PA • (215) 563-3330 • Hours: 6:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Politics of Prohibition
Did you know? Famous rum-runner W T Bell, a ship that crashed off the coast of Bayville, NY filled with illegal liquor, was manufactured locally in Linwood, PA in 1889. A rum-runner is defined as a person or ship engaged in bringing prohibited liquor ashore or across a border.
If you’re looking for an intimate spot in Philadelphia with strong, classic cocktails, the place you should be going is one that’s hard to find. In true Prohibition style, slip away down the back alley of Ranstead Street between 20th and 21st and look for the door labeled with red mirrored R’s- welcome to the elusive Ranstead Room. It will not disappoint you.
The vibe of the joint is part lavish lounge, part seductive thriller. The mood is amplified by the vintage, pin-up art dotting the walls, dim lights setting the mood, and antique chandeliers dripping from the ceiling. Sharing a kitchen with El Rey, the menu is stacked with delicious home-made, inspired Mexican dishes like Campachi Ceviche and the Trio De Tamales. Seating is extremely limited, and with only 15 bar seats and 10 tables available you better get there early. Trust us, if the atmosphere doesn’t get you (it will), then these drinks will most definitely win your vote.
What we recommend:
• Bartenders choice Tangy or Sweet? Vodka or Gin? Prepare for a series of questions, revealing your desired preference. The bartender will concoct according to your response and the result will not disappoint. Be careful—there may be flames involved.
• Tricky Dicks Watergate* Blanco tequila, Madeira, Benedictine, Mezcal, Tomato Water
• Rob’s Re-Election* Courvoisier, Fernet Branca, Lemon
*seasonal menu items- hurry before they’re gone!
