Spirit Cruises January 2023 Leaderboard

Vegetarian Decadence at the New Vedge Happy Hour

With newly opened Vedge (1221 Locust St.), husband-and-wife team Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby are proving that going meatless doesn’t have to mean going without pleasure. This week, the fine-dining restaurant launched their happy hour, running from 5–6 PM weekdays.

Vegetarian decadence exists in both food and drink form at this posh Wash West enclave, located in the centuries-old former home of French bistro Deux Cheminees. The long marble bar welcomes guests directly after stepping inside, and a lounge decked out with cushioned sofas, bookshelves and a fireplaces sits hidden off of one side.

An impressive beverage program has been put together by Jacoby, along with general manager Daniel Dinartino and bar manager Daniel Miller. Six taps and another half a dozen bottles offer both interesting domestic choices (Dark Horse Boffo Brown Ale, for example) and unique imported options, ranging from $5–$15 (for a 22-oz bomber). We sampled the Kelpie Seaweed Ale from Scottland’s Heather Brewing and found it extremely pleasant. Seaweed is used to mulch the grain fields that are mashed for this brew, which imparts a light, almost salty aftertaste (the beer does not taste fishy, fear not).

Specialty cocktails run $8–$12, and feature housemade bitters, syrups and juices. The liquors are local, organic and made without the use of animal products wherever possible. The Rob Ruiz takes Del Maguey mezcal (in place of the traditional Scotch), mixed with Vya sweet vermouth and those house cherry cola bitters. The Apple Cide Car sees New Jersey-made Laird’s apple brandy meet Cointreau, apple and maple smoked cinnamon.

Nearly 70 labels make up the wine list, which is full of unusual and hard-to-find vintages, starting around $32 and going up from there. A handful are available by the glass as well. With all of the drinks, it was important to select ones that would not overpower the vegetable-based fare coming from Landau’s kitchen, Jacoby told us.

That’s not to say the produce-only plates lacked any depth or soulful flavor. From hearty soups to multi-note crepes and tangy “veggie charcuterie,” the food at Vedge is worth sinking your teeth into. Happily for deal-seakers, the just-launched happy hour includes several options for bites.

For $4, after-work bar patrons can sample Korean tacos, portabello crostini or baked garbanzo dip to go along with their drink specials. Just $2 will score you a Yards Philly Pale Ale, a Boffo Brown or a shot of cider. At $5 your choices include the Apple Cide Car or a glass of sangria, sauvignon blanc or syrah. So whether you love bacon or refuse eat it, head over to the white-walled space to enjoy some inspired veggie fun.

Recent Articles
spacer

Feedback

How are we doing? Tell us what you like or don't like and how we can improve. We would love to hear your thoughts!

*Name:
*E-mail:
*Suggestions:
 
Best Oktoberfests, Festivals, Block Parties & Halloween Events to Celebrate Fall in Philly

Best Oktoberfests, Festivals, Block Parties & Halloween Events to Celebrate Fall in Philly

Crisp weather and shorter days bring a variety of autumn events to Philadelphia. From yacht parties to haunted...read more ›

by Drink Philly Sep 15, 2024
Bar Palmina: Inside Look at Fishtown's Newest No-Alcohol Bar

Bar Palmina: Inside Look at Fishtown's Newest No-Alcohol Bar

One of the hottest new cocktail spots to hit the Fishtown neighborhood serves cocktails with no alcohol at all...read more ›

by Drink Philly Sep 11, 2024
The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

Have you ever dreamed of having an amazing home bar, filled with bottles you actually use and the tools you need to execute a fine crafted cocktail? E...read more ›

by The Drink Nation Nov 14, 2014
SPONSORED
Spirit Cruises January 2023 Desktop Bottom Rectangle 1
Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Center City District will close the streets allowing pedestrians to enjoy outdoor seating, music, and activiti...read more ›

by Michelle Cryder Sep 6, 2024
Local Winery Spotlight: Vox Vineti Wines

Local Winery Spotlight: Vox Vineti Wines

Ed Lazzerini says his goal is clear - to make world class wine in Pennsylvania. From the taste of it, he is well on his way. ...read more ›

by Drink Philly Nov 21, 2020
Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

We've rounded up all of the must-stop spots for sipping spirits by the beach, whether your vibe is dark and sexy or vibrant and divey....read more ›

by Drink Philly Aug 26, 2024
Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

This time on Behind the Bar, we interview bartender and bar manager Jillian Moore of My Loup. We chat with her about her cocktail menu, the effects of...read more ›

by Drink Philly May 13, 2024
Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare is the newest endeavor by Chef Townsend Wentz, located at 2121 Walnut Street, near Rittenhouse Square...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 22, 2024
Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

We've got your definitive list of where to drink outside in Philadelphia...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling is transforming their fourth floor space into a secret garden to celebrate Earth Day, ...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
SPONSORED
Drink Nation Home Bar Project Bottom Rectangle 2
View all Articles

Sign up to get weekly drinking news, bar reviews, events and more sent directly to your inbox!

Close