I seriously can not believe it is the end of freaking September. I just can’t. While I have had something to do outside of work every. single. day this month (resulting in approximately 14 loads of laundry I need to do, amongst other things), I do think the weeks ramping to fall are so fun. I love this season. My favorite perks include: the fact that it is now socially acceptable to wear tights, the many excuses to go shopping, and lots and lots of festivals. Because there are so many fun ones coming up (festivals, not tights), I’ve picked five of my favorites to share with you.
{Date Night Idea} A.Bar
When it comes to finding new places to suggest for Philly date nights (once my dates get word I write a blog about Philadelphia, the pressure’s kind of on me), I am often intimidated to offer up places I have not visited. Instead, I normally like to take my pending date spots for a test run with one of my girlfriends. Last month I got to catch up with Karima of Skinny Minority for some drinks and a treat at a great potential date spot location: a.kitchen’s a.bar (135 South 18th Street).
After passing a.bar about 500 times on my way to & from Anthropologie, I was excited to finally give it a try. a.bar’s dark and cozy bar is accessible through the entrance on Walnut Street, which can be a bit confusing if you’re just using the address. a.bar’s website describes the location as “a refined – yet unpretentious oyster, charcuterie and snacks bar focusing on superb wines, craft beers and cocktails.”
Karima and I both ordered cocktails. The bartender, similarly to the one at Ranstead Room, was great and prepared each drink with some fun, salsa like dance moves. I had the Crow’s Nest which was really delicious.
While a.bar has a full oyster bar, we went for some different food choices. Karima had the seafood soup which she liked, and I had the caramel apple ice cream sandwich. Yes, that is real life. Despite the freezing weather, it was great.
After one quick visit, I am happy to report I will be bringing a.bar in to my date night rotation. It was unique, intimate, and the perfect place to get to know your new companion. Thanks for being a great date, Karima!