Have you heard? Black car service Uber is launching in Philly! Even better news: they want to buy you a drink this Wednesday, May 9, during a happy hour party in the pool room at Broad Street’s Perch Pub.

Uber is the modern answer to the taxi conundrum. No longer do you have to be a fancy executive to have a sleek auto at your beck and call. All you have to have a mobile phone — download the iPhone or Android app, or just sign up online and use SMS texts to get a car, wherever you are, when you need one. The company has found great success in San Francisco, Boston, D.C., L.A. and has plans to expand worldwide soon.

Though Uber is currently in “secret” phase in Philadelphia, the team is ready to meet you — hence the happy hour! We'll be holding it down from 5–7 PM in the pool room at the second-floor Avenue of the Arts tavern, but come early, because Uber's covering the tab for the first hundred or so drinks! So not only can you take advantage of the regular specials at Perch (half-price craft drafts, $5 vodka martinis, gin and tonics and select wines), you'll have a chance to score a couple of free ones courtesy of the  car-centric startup. All you need to do is RSVP below.

Wondering how to get to the party? Transportation to the event will be free for Uber members. To take advantage:

1. Download the Uber iPhone or Android app and sign up with an account. For the SMS feature, sign up at www.uber.com.

2. Request a black car via the app when you need one (all rides are on-demand). If you're using SMS rather than the app, text message your pickup address to 827-222 (example: '1577 Rittner Street, Philadelphia'). You'll receive a text message of your ETA, along with one once your driver has arrived.

3. With your credit card on file, there's no cash or tipping. Simply get to your destination, rate your driver, and get on your merry way. For Perch Pub, all rides starting or ending at the event will be free (up to $25), so slip out and enjoy the night!

Contact keith@uber.com with any questions or issues.