Dine-and-Date: Philly’s Best Restaurants for a Tinder Date
Photos courtesy of Cantina Dos Segundos and Charlie was a sinner. Food Lists Dine-and-DateIn the Philadelphia Tinder world, you’re at least one of three things: an artist, a barista or an Urban Outfitters employee. Luckily, there are date venue options that appease to many personality and interest variants. From casual lunch daters to brooding cocktail drinkers, there’s a date spot for every Philly swiper.
1. Cantina Dos Segundos
931 N. 2nd St.
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Every good date begins with a margarita. One of the handful of laid-back options along N. 2nd Street in Northern Liberties, Cantina is perfect for pairs and especially for pairs who enjoy tequila and burritos. The atmosphere—think colorful string lights and exposed brick—is not too stuffy, so it’s ideal for those early on meetups. While not strictly Tex-Mex (they do have a poutine spin and dry-rubbed chicken wings on the menu), all of the tried and true favorites like tacos and quesadillas are available so no need to study up on the offerings beforehand.
2. Oyster House
1516 Sansom St.
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If seafood on a date gives you the creeps, hear us out: You can date on a budget at Oyster House. From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, take advantage of $1 oyster, $3 shooter, $3 draft and $5 cocktail happy hour. If you opt for a full dinner, you can choose from raw bar options and a variety of small and large plates ranging from shrimp, mussels and oysters to flounder or lobster. Sit at the raw bar to see the shuckers do their thing.
3. Kraftwork
541 E. Girard Ave.
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Off the beaten path that is the highly trafficked intersection of Frankford and Girard in Fishtown is Kraftwork, a craft beer bar and snack-oriented eatery. With a central bar and ample seating at large tables along the periphery, this is a place suited for conversation, not awkward lingering. The beer selection is expansive (try a bunch with a flight) and the sandwich offerings—beer can chicken, french onion short rib, banh mi with vegan tofu—are crowd pleasers.
4. Dizengoff
1625 Sansom St.
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From the CookNSolo restaurant family is a made-to-order hummus spot inspired by Israeli hummus stalls. With a constantly updated menu posted each day on Instagram, Dizengoff serves vegan and vegetarian friendly dishes as well as meat-topped options. The hummus itself is served with a side of pita, seasonal veggie salad and Israeli pickles and is basically an Instagrammer’s dream. With communal picnic tables, warm pita and craft beer, Dizengoff is ideal if you’re looking for a midday siesta or a casual hang.
5. Charlie was a sinner.
131 S. 13th St.
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By this point, you’ve decided if you like this Tinder person. If that’s the case, it might be time to take a trip to Charlie was a sinner., the all-vegan bar with stiff cocktails. The speakeasy vibes hit you as soon as you walk in the door: the place is dark, cozy and chandeliers punctuate the ceiling. Between the Korean style fried tofu, vegan shepherd’s pie and the Bullseye (farro infused Jim Beam Black, meletti amaro, absinthe) things are bound to go to the next level.
6. Front Street Cafe
1253 N. Front St.
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Front Street Cafe serves many purposes: it can be great for a quick coffee date during the day and even better for a fresh new American meal at night. They’ve got a farm-to-table menu that serves excellent buffalo cauliflower and hearty salads and a kitchen that’s open until 10 p.m. Make it a warm-weather affair and sit on their back patio. The later you go, the less likely you are to encounter a wait.