As the evenings start to lengthen and warm, to our delight, reserve a table at one of these Philly eateries for an outdoor happy hour.
Sampan’s chicken bao buns
1. Oyster House
The divine wedding of fresh oysters and a crisp beer is enough to make any seafood lover salivate. Relax at the raw bar, or at the outdoor-seating section, as you savor the fresh $3 oyster shooters with a $3 draft beer. On weekdays, you can catch the happy hour special Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 6p.m. For the weekend warriors, be sure to reserve a spot Saturdays from 3 to 5p.m. 1516 Sansom St., 215.567.7683, oysterhousephilly.com
2. Fond
Each Sunday from 5:30 to 7p.m., you can visit this South Philadelphia spot to reserve an alfresco sidewalk table for a night of $1.50 oysters, $6 cocktails and $5 beers. With 36 indoor seats and sweeping views of the Passyunk Singing Fountain, the atmosphere matches the culinary excellence. There truly is no better way to end the week than with fresh oysters and tasty sips. 1537 S. 11th St., 215.551.5000, fondphilly.com
3. Sampan
If you’re craving exotic bites, try Sampan’s modern Asian cuisine in Midtown Village. From 3 to 5p.m., the restaurant provides a full menu of $5 plates—think edamame dumplings, cucumber avocado rolls, chicken katsu bao buns, kimchi fried rice and Korean barbecue beef satay. Rain or shine, try all these dishes on the covered, outdoor patio. 124 S. 13th St., 215.732.3501, sampanphilly.com
4. Bud & Marilyn’s
Classic comfort recipes receive an upscale makeover at this comfortable Midtown Village eatery. While lounging in its enclosed cabanas, sample drinks like $5 beers, $5 wine, a $6 daily cocktail and $5 food specials. You can expect homey dishes like crispy cheese curds and a bratwurst bun with spicy Chinese mustard aioli, green apple, celery and mustard seed. 1234 Locust St., 215.546.2220, budandmarilyns. com
5. South Kitchen & Jazz Parlor
Spend an evening enjoying the mild spring breeze while seated at this eatery’s lovely courtyard. Every Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 7p.m., try Southern comfort favorites like the $5 kale and feta flatbread or $7 Louisiana crawfish fritters. Specific wines, cocktails and beers are also discounted for $4 to $7—so you can indulge in buzzy beverages like the bourbon cocktail or orchard martini. 600 N. Broad St., 215.600.0220, southjazzkitchen.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Sampan Restaurant
