Post by Stephanie Weaver

Tucked away in the bustling streets of Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse section is a literary gem of a bar. Inspired by the morbid genius of Edgar Allen Poe’s prose, the Raven Lounge stands out amongst the other more typically college-esque bars of the city. Dark, mood-lighting and exposed brick give the Raven an overall gloomy aura. Patrons sometimes swear that they can hear Poe’s famous telltale heart beating from behind the low-ceilinged walls.

The Raven Lounge, in truth, is as far away from a Poe poem as Corona is from being good beer. The friendly, generous staff is warm and welcoming. The Raven hosts a plethora of daily activities, from open mic night on Tuesdays to 80’s dance party night on Thursdays. All three bars in the lounge are usually open and running. Ailing hipsters and bike messengers can look forward to sitting down on the plush, velvet couches that line the walls of the Raven’s second floor.

Despite having beer on tap, the Raven Lounge has an excellent variety of bottled brews and premium liquor. One can enjoy a PBR-pounder or something more classy, such as a margarita or a cosmopolitan.

Recently voted number ten in Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly” contest, more people are discovering all this swanky little bar has to offer. If you find yourself craving mystique, great music and alcohol, this is definitely the best place for you.

The Raven Lounge
1718 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
www.ravenlounge.com