Stir
1705 Chancellor St, Philadelphia, PA, 19176
Stir Menu
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Address :
1705 Chancellor St
Philadelphia, PA, 19176 - Phone (215) 732-2700
- Website https://www.stirphilly.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :4:00 pm - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Music : DJ, Music Videos
Good For Dancing : Yes
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Has TV : Yes
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Charlotte H.
As I recall, I had a little bit of difficultly finding this place as the entrance seems like it's in an alleyway. The lounge had two different bars, my friends and I chose the less crowded one in the back. Our bartender was friendly and helpful and made us OUTRAGEOUSLY STRONG drinks. Coke and rum, 80% rum, 10% ice, 10% coke. Our margaritas were even stronger. We had planned on bar hoping, but stuck around for another drink our two because of the strong drinks and cold wind outside. I'd recommend Stir for the drinks and the abundance of fairly cozy seating.
(4)Paola D.
This is without a doubt one of the best pieces of food I've ever tried! The tilefish was perfect, the corn soup was amazing and dessert was even better. The decor is warm and inviting as well as the wait staff, who provide awesome service. Has to be one the best restaurants in town.
(5)M P.
Kind of hidden, found it by accident but glad I did. Great little hideaway! Drinks were good and reasonable too. Cool little atmosphere.
(4)LL M.
Cool place. Happy hour 7 days a week from 5-7. I will definitely be back. Great music. Some of the videos are a bit raunchy. It's really dark when you walk in during the daytime but your eyes adjust after a couple minutes.
(4)Stephen H.
Best place in Philly to get a stiff one. Seriously, super strong but well made cocktails, bartenders are efficient, and the happy hour is never usually crowded. a great place to start up an evening out, lubricate the wheels after a long work day. If you are going to let sexual orientation, affect your ability to get a potent drink at a good price in rittenhouse, you better rethink your priorities Son.* *I never use "Son" and promise to not to again, it just seemed appropriate.
(4)Shawn K.
Stir is, by far, my favorite gay/mixed (i.e., everyone is welcome) bar in the city--and that includes the Gayborhood. The GH only wishes they had a place like Stir "for the rest of us." You know, those of us who just want to chill, have a drink, make plans with some friends to meet there, or make new friends you might meet there in the future. The staff has always been super nice and friendly, as are the other patrons, for that matter. I like that it feels like it's kind of a secret & hasn't yet been discovered by the masses. (You guys are more than welcome to stay on your side of Broad.) It's also in a perfect location, obviously, for Rittenhouse residents; however, quite surprisingly, the attitude is minimal (just try finding that at Rogue, less than a block away). Stir isn't too loud, and there's no need to give yourself a sore throat in order to be heard by the person(s) sitting next to you. Overall, a really nice place.
(5)Gina V.
Stir is a hidden gem. It's tucked down an alley, so when you approach you can pretend that you're a spy heading to a clandestine meeting with another secret agent, or sneaking into a top secret fortress. It really is just set up so well! There's a rectangular bar in the middle, around which is plenty of seating and ample space to move behind people even when they're seated without smacking them in the back of the head with your purse, which is pretty important. It's dark so it feels intimate and mysterious, but welcoming at the same time. Then there's another bar in the back that is sometimes open, and a dance floor area. The drinks are strong, the people are friendly, and I highly recommend it!
(4)Natasha S.
This great little bar was located literally right around the corner from the hotel that we stayed in. We started off here just for a few drinks. Immediately walking in, you see the round seated bar and a quiet room in the back which we didn't explore. We sat down and were promptly greeted by the bartender. The bartender was super nice and welcoming. There are 2 flat screen televisions, one on each side featuring contemporary music videos. Between the 4 of us, we ordered a house special cocktail, vodka and cranberry, gin and tonic and a beer. The cocktails were no joke. They ran about $7-12 but were basically all liquor. They were super strong. This bartender rocked. I wish we had gotten his name, but he was super nice and just really accommodating. That's hard to find in most bars really. They are usually overwhelmed and a pain to get attention from. We stayed for a bit, but only had one cocktail before heading on to our other spots. We made a couple new local friends at the bar and really enjoyed being here. The vibe is nice and the bar is laid back.
(4)Moe W.
Always good - always friendly staff - always clean - always a good experience!
(4)Marianne M.
It's a relief to have a gay bar in Center City away from the Gayborhood. I go on Wednesdays for the a free, friendly poker game. The bartenders Anthony and Amanda are great, friendly, and always know what you want. They do have to put up with a lot of sh*t and despite that are the life of the party. They also just put in a juke box! Party time!
(5)Emma T.
Really nice, small bar. Divey feel, but still very nicely decorated and a big enough space to have two bars and a karaoke/dance area. The drinks were cheap and very strong, and the bartender was very nice and friendly with absolutely everyone who walked in. Even when I was making a fool of myself and knocked over a completely full drink she'd just placed in front of me, she was super nice and refilled it. It wasn't all that full on a Friday around 10/10:30, but I imagine it fills up a little later.
(4)Kyle S.
Went here for the first time on Thursday, which is a good night to go, since there are $1 well drinks with a $5 cover. The drinks were quite strong, too. I like how Stir is intimate but not claustrophobic, and the clientle is very mixed. The DJ playing music was pretty good. For a Thursday night around 11, it was crowded but not packed, which made getting drinks a breeze. My friends and I had a great time, and will certainly be coming back.
(4)Jason M.
I am in the business and was excited to go out and catch up with an old friend tonight. We had an amazing dinner at Devon and had heard that Stir was a great time. To be honest, it turned out to be nothing of the sort. My friend asked for a rum and diet and the bartender asked her what kind of rum. She said house was fine. While I understand that this is a very common question, if you don't suggest a more expensive liquor, why ask, 'if I'm sure I want that,' when I confirm that the well is ok. Despite the bartender's pompous attitude, I understand everyone has a bad day so I still left him quite a gracious tip for the two drinks he poured. However, the real surprise came when he asked us to quiet down while we were catching up!! He said the ONLY OTHER GUEST there was complaining. This is a bar, with extremely loud music. We were there around 10:30pm. There were no families, or any reason we could see, that we would be told to quiet down in a bar with music blaring. We finished our drinks quickly and left after that. Needless to say I will not be returning to Stir, especially not on a Tuesday night when the bartender yells at us for being to loud and I receive disdain for my guests drink choices. I'll spend my hard earned money somewhere we are welcome!
(1)Steven M.
If you haven't been in to see Will (Tues, Thurs, Sun) you're missing out. Fair on the drinks - unfair on the flirt. ;-)
(5)Erin C.
Neat dive-y gay bar down an alley in Rittenhouse. We went on a Wednesday, so it wasn't crowded and we were served right away. The bartender was super nice and attentive, and the crowd was friendly and chill (and not pretentious, which can be an issue in Rittenhouse) - definite pluses. They have a back room with a dance floor, but nothing was going on there since it was a weeknight. It looks like it'd be great on a weekend, though.
(5)Shamika R.
Awesome little hole in the wall place. Went with my girlfriend when we were just exploring the city. We walked in and the place was full of guys but it wasn't awkward at all. The entrance may seem a little sketchy but once you step foot the large bar and lounge in the back make it all worthwhile. Happy hour is Mon-Fri from 5-7. And yes the drinks are strong! We will definitely be back in the next time we're around.
(5)shana o.
If you want the best Cosmo in the city come visit Angela and have her make you one !!! My friends and I frequent here and it is always a good time :)
(5)Natalie M.
We were in Philly for the weekend and I added this lounge to my list of places to check out, so glad we did! We went on a Saturday and it was pretty quiet, most likely because it was the weekend before Halloween and we saw a lot of people dresses up, most likely heading to parties. I appreciated the list of fall drinks and tried the apple martini, after some convincing from the very nice bartender, the drink was quite good and also quite strong. We snagged a little corner area and cozied up with our drinks, enjoyed the music and conversation. I enjoyed visiting this bar and if I lived in Philly I'd probably be a regular.
(4)David G.
James Bond may prefer his cocktails shaken, but he's never been to Stir. Stir is such a cool little bar that it might even make a convert out of 007 himself. Located on a dark alleyway off of Rittenhouse Square, Stir is really two bars in one. In front is a darker, more rustic bar with lots of brick and TVs playing entertaining music videos. In back is a light and bright bar, with colorful walls and more of a party vibe. Are you a schizophrenic drinker? Then Stir is the right bar for you. The drinks here are fine, though they don't pack the wallop that they do at Woody's or Tavern on Camac. My gin and soda was mostly soda. But this is Rittenhouse Square, after all -- and everybody is on their best behavior on the west side of Broad St. (Pinkies up!) The crowd mostly consists of locals who are very serious drinkers. Not a whole lot of mingling seems to happen at Stir. On the nights that I visited, Stir was jam-packed with people, yet it was strangely quiet in there. I guess the boys of Stir don't want anybody getting in between them, their cocktails, and their iPhones. While the quiet may be off-putting to some, Stir might be the right place for you if you're looking to catch up with a friend with minimum chaos in the background. I suppose the ambiance just adds to the mystery. (I'm sure 007 would approve.)
(4)Kelvin L.
I was yelping for a place to easily stumble to and from the hotel I was staying and Stir did not disappoint. After a long week of conferencing I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was 2 buck tuesdays. Seeing that twonie tuesdays (canadiana expression) don't exist anymore in the great white north it was a blast. The drinks were fine and got progressively stronger (or at least I thought they did). I mentioned to the bartender Kevin that I think I saw someone mention his name on here before so here is another shout out!
(5)David G.
Was at stir last tonight. Really enjoyed it. No beers on draft and limited drink selection but staff and patrons really friendly enjoyed more than other bars.
(5)Mike G.
I love stir. Ive been enjoying the chill relaxed friendly and still very adult atmosphere here for years. The bartenders are among the best in the city as far as I am concerned and the owner is like the mayor of friendly town. She always goes out of her way to make everyone feel welcome. Her staff is just as friendly. It's dangerous, because it's one of the more generous pours in town so it's best to stop in on Wednesday's "gentlemen's happy hour" when there's free grilled cheeses passed out to keep one on their stool longer.
(5)Cindy L.
My friend and I wanted to explore the gayborhoods. After an awkward day the night before, we somehow stumbled here. The bartender, Kevin, was awesome! He made us feel completely welcomed. (We are both from Cali and have no idea what goes on around here.) He told us about all the cool places in the area and even gave us a free shot. Nice! Drinks had a decent amount of alcohol, so my friend was very tipsy after one drink. Reasonably priced too. $5 you-call-its. We will definitely wander back here again.
(4)Rebecca S.
A little off-the-beaten-path both for Rittenhouse and for The Gayborhood lies a secret little bar of all things wonderful, it's name is Stir. If you can manage to find it tucked behind the storefronts of Walnut Street and through the back alley of Chancellor you will find a lovely gay bar filled with the strong cocktailed comforts of places like Knock, Woodys, and Tavern but on a far more subdued scale. Sure, the guys are all checking their iPhones feverishly to see who is surfing the Grindr app and sure the bartenders are prettier than even the girliest of girls in the bar, but it is definitely a mixed crowd, not in the least pretentious, and has never managed to feel overcrowded, three qualities hard to find in Rittenhouse. Thursday nights boast a throwback special to the college years with $1 well cocktails from 9-11, worth partaking in once or twice if you want to remind yourself why you now drink top shelf. The music selection was the standard gay bar playlist ranging from old school Whitney and Madge to the Gaga, my only minor complaint was the volume level to patron ratio...too loud to even have a conversation with those within an arms reach. Conveniently located just a hop and a skip from Little Pete's, this is quite possibly the new "closer" in the gay bar hop rotation....check it out, if you can find it.
(4)Theresa M.
I enjoy this place. I remember about a year ago, my sister and I gone to an event and this place was the after party. We took a cab from the event and the cab driver drove us into this seedy looking alley way. We were puzzled and ask the cab driver if this was the place. Of course it was, being new to Philly scene, alley ways are where the hidden gems are. Anyway, we walked in and the place was packed. I thought the bar area was all there was until you walk through to this icebox looking room. It was also where I learned this was one the hot gay spots in the area. Not good for me but great for my sister. I still had a great time and the drinks are reasonable priced. The music is little loud but i enjoy watching some of the music videos playing on the screen as you wait for your drinks. Too bad none of the goodlooking men in this place are interesting in me but I will come here again just hang out with my sister and have a few drinks
(5)Barrett L.
Stir is one of my favorite bars in town. This divey lounge on an alley near Rittenhouse Square has good drinks and a friendly, local crowd. Although it is much smaller than most of the other gay bars in town, the owners and bartenders are super nice and know how and when to put you in your place if the time comes. Stir is probably best known for "Stirsday", which is Thursday nights from 9-12 when well drinks and PBR are just a buck. However, starting in September, Stir will be charging a $5 cover on Thursday nights. I was a little upset with their decision to do that, but after coming by last Thursday night and trying to fight my way through the throngs of patrons looking for cheap drinks, this may not be such a terrible idea. It'll be interesting to see if this helps or hurts the bar. Stir also does $2 Tuesdays with $2 wells and PBR. Overall, really like this bar, the atmosphere, and the people. Definitely a core part of the community.
(4)Michelle C.
After reading Stephen H's ROTD for Stir last week, I checked out the other reviews and realized I needed to get in on the action as soon as possible. Little did I know how soon I'd be partaking - just days later I found myself walking down Chancellor with a bevy of yelp buds. For some reason, what I pictured Stir to look like and what it actually looked like were two very different things. I had imagined a wall of dark brick and a long chestnut bar with little space to maneuver. What I got was a square bar in the center of a cozy room, plus another bar with more space in the back, and very tasteful décor all around. Added to that was a 'tender who knew how to make a martini just as well as he made every one of us Stir newbs feel welcome. Thanks to Sue for letting me tickle her pickle. I quite liked it, actually.
(5)Marissa B.
Wound up going here on a whim with my now fiance after meeting two new friends (30's something fem and a middle-aged lesbian) walking about Center City who invited us out. Very chill atmosphere, great music (Yes, I love me some Xtina and Madge.), and though I'm not sure if it's all the time they had $2 PBR pints which is a good deal.
(5)Jessica G.
I'm glad I took the recommindation of a fellow yelp user who recommended this place after my traumatizing experience at the last lesbian lounge( which made me rethink my sexuality back to heterism) At first glance it was scary little crowd on a alley street, when you first walk in its like going into a house party were you don't know anyone. The room stopped looked at us then continued. We cozied up in a chair on the side and quickly warmed up. This was a little manhattan and la mixed together with a splash of phili . Cute bartenders, crowd easy on the eyes and I place you can order a decent mixed margarita holds high scored with me. I wanted to give this place 4 stars cause the music was off but at points it got better. For a night in phili that would have been spent feeling like those akward lesbians in a all male gay spot this place sure hit the spot
(5)Amanda C.
Gretchen: OMG that is so fetch. Regina: what is fetch! Gretchen: its like slang; from England. Regina: Gretchen stop trying to make fetch happen, its not going to happen.-Mean Girls I have been accused by my friends of trying to "make Stir happen." I have come to Stir for Happy Hour and $1 Drink Thursdays from 9-11, both were fun and I suggest a visit. On the negative side, I have come here for a few events that were huge disappointments, one being a riot grrl night where there was no riot grrl music played, and once for quizzo where the person who ran it just didn't show up. Hit or Miss for "event" type nights. Could be a better place to meet someone than other gay bars? I like the diverse crowd and friendly service.
(3)Aruna A.
Stir is totally hidden, but AWESOME. I found it on Yelp, and we relocated here after having a great time at a near by bar. I was super excited about it - as I had passed by a number of times and had seen a cool crowd, and heard good music. It is tiny, and hard to find. Additionally, it doesn't look awesome from the outside. Inside, it is TRULY wonderful. Cool loft like space, GREAT drinks, and reasonably priced. Also a really nice bartender was there last night - and I got the impression he was there often. The music is generally good, the space is neat, and the drinks are well priced. What else does one want? I can't wait to go back here on a Thursday - Saturday night. They have a DJ then. Great new bar in the Rittenhouse hood.
(5)Monica S.
Stir wins for being my favorite overall bar in Rittenhouse, not to mention my favorite gay bar in all of Philly. The crowd is always relatively mixed, but the gay men typically outdo the everything else category. Men, women, gay, straight, bi...they're all there though, so don't worry. Located in an alley coated with restaurant kitchen grease, you'd probably not expect much, but prepare to be impressed, the interior is swank, clean, and respectable. For those of you on the prowl, who think Woody's/Bump/Pure/Sisters is too obvious, check out Stir. Chances are there's someone there just like you who's classier, more city savvy, and less cheesy than the rest of them. I can't promise you won't find the meth-heads gunning for a hotel room orgy, but I can say that by taking the Stir detour, you're on the road less traveled and Robert Frost would be proud.
(4)Christina S.
Stir is a great place to go if you want a less 'clubby' feel, and less of a crowd as well. A good thing about Stir is you won't see the SAME people you see at every other gay bar in the city. It gets a bit monotonous going to Mister's and seeing the same cliques of 12 year olds getting wasted every weekend-even tho I like that place too. This is more of an upscale, older crowd and because of that I'm a fan. Stir has good happy hour specials, and the bartenders are polite and nice.
(4)Jason F.
I was looking for a nice place to get a few cocktails on Thanksgiving after spending the day with family. So my brother, his girlfriend, and I discovered Stir in this nondescript alley a block and half from the hotel we were staying at. Being Thanksgiving, there were few patrons in there. We plopped down at the bar for a spell and proceeded to have a nice time. The music videos were entertaining, but not so loud that you couldn't carry on a conversation. The bartender was charming, and very easy on the eyes. I mean hello, it is a gay bar! and newsflash, I am gay! I didn't know it was a gay bar until we entered the place. My brother didn't seem to care. He's such a good supporter of his gay bro. Anyway, the drinks were ice cold, the shots were wonderful, and we had a really nice time in there. I would like to go back the next time in Philly, to see what it's like when it's a little busier. I suspect it can be a bit of a cruisy place. And who doesn't enjoy some nice man candy with their ice cold drinks?
(4)MaryAnn Z.
So. OK. I really wanted to love this place. For one, it's the closest gay establishment to my house. Beyond that, well, there just needed to be more options. But there's just something about it that, I don't know, fucks with my chi? I've been there a few times. It's too bright. When it gets crowded, I hate the set up--there's just no way to not feel like you're in someone's/everyone's way. The decor is really nice, and the bathrooms are cool, and so on. I actually really like the decor. I think it's just too difficult to navigate. There isn't much space to sit comfortably at the front bar with people walking in and out, and sitting at the back bar is just not really possible. The bartenders are nice (HOT) and the music is alright. I don't know. It's just average. If it weren't a gay bar, I'd never go back. And I give them credit for putting so much effort into it. Drinks are average price.
(2)Alisdaire Bar F.
We went here and started to like it, it had rather modern interiors and so forth, until some liquored-up queen started barking out to the rest of the bar, lamenting her life story in that maudlin way that is highly annoying. A couple of us queens complained to the bartender that it would be nice if she'd SHADDAP, but noooooh, she was a "regular", so shutting up was not in order. So a bunch of us left. They'd have made a few more dollars if they'd urged that dump to SHADDAP, but whatever. I was secretly hoping the queen would be lying in bed with a screeching hangover the next day, and I bet she was. That's whacha get queen, that's whatcha get.
(3)Janine G.
After trolling around the Gayborhood and getting the usual "blahs" after Woody's, 12th Air, and wherever else my friends and I had gone that Saturday night, a friend called and invited us to come out to Stir. Five blocks and seemingly hours of direction-giving later (this off-the-beaten-path-block to this alleyway behind this dumpster...), we arrived at Stir. [Note: watch out for aggressive beggars outside. We saw quite a bit of this when a friend went out for a smoke.] While the outside might lead you to think the worst, the inside atmosphere is fantastic. Stir is small, but not cramped -- more like intimate. There was a lot of space to sit at chat with friends at the bar and in the hallway. Plenty of attractive faces (both patrons and bartenders)...and I'll never argue with that! The bar menu had plenty of cocktails with fantastically filthy names, and the ones my friends and I ordered were great! The prices were a little high, but we seemed to be there during one of the few hours per week that Stir doesn't run drink specials (as per what I've read since). No cover on that particular night though, which is a big win over most places on the other side of Broad. My favorite thing about Stir? Finally, an LGBT place that's in Center City but away from the Gayborhood. Sometimes you're looking for something less crowded and lower-key...even on the weekend. Better yet, my friends and I (1 bisexual woman, 1 gay man, 1 transman, 1 questioning woman, 1 straight woman) ALL felt comfortable in there. We'll definitely be back!
(5)Rebecca G.
Visiting from So. Cal, I stopped into this bar for a quick beer. It was a Sunday night and the bar was DEAD! 3 boys (including the bartender). Not a female in sight :( The interior is very nice and the service was great, considering there was only 3 customers!
(3)lyndsey F.
I really do love Stir. I love that we have a gay bar on this side of Broad street. I love that you can come here any time of the week, any time of the night and it is still...not that crowded. They make a damn good drink here as well and I love that the plasma always has like E! or the Style network on, because there is nothing that I like better than watching John Travolta's True Hollywood Story while getting a little wastys. Also, this place used to be the ugly stepsister of the gay bars in Philadelphia: The Post. And although I was never in the post as a legal adult, this place was crazy. Things found only in dreams happened at The Post. Sometimes at Stir, you can look around the bar and pick out the odd few people that were probably regulars at The Post...but the majority of the cliente are young and kindasorta yuppie. But if you squint your eyes and think thoughts of life before pink martinis inhabited this space, I can still see the leather and chains coming in and out of the bathroom with no abandon. Ahhh, I love Stir. xo
(4)Caroline L.
Tucked in an alley in Rittenhouse Square, Stir is a gem worth discovering. The place is so small, but seems to be able to accommodate the crowd congregating around one of the two bars. I have never had a bad time at Stir and the crowd has a relatively balanced male/female ratio, compared to other gay bars in the area. The dancefloor is a corner in the back bar area, but has attracted quite a bit of dancing the times I've gone there. I have found it easy to meet people. I went this past Friday on Latin night and had a couple of people trying to teach me to dance. It's embarrassing how uncoordinated I am, but nobody seemed to care.
(4)Nora S.
I'm glad I gave Stir another try before reviewing. I first went to Stir on a Saturday night, and I must have been surrounded by a special party, or something, because it seemed to be an establishment geared towards older individuals. My friends and I had a great time, but we left thinking - ok, well, that was fun, but let's not go back for another 25 years or so. In 25 years, it will be just the place. But then I was talking about Stir with a friend and learned that she had a completely different experience. We decided to go back and give it another look. So, it turns out, that Saturday must have been a special night, because when I went back (on a Tuesday) the crowd was much younger. That said, on both occasions I was very pleased by the seemingly even distribution of men and women, a true gay AND lesbian bar, and to see a variety of ages together. Now about the drinks: they're different, which is fun. At happy hour ($2 off!) I tried something called The Sticky Fingers, which tasted like both Christmas and an appletini at the same time so naturally I was pleased. I ended up getting The Sticky Fingers because when I asked the bartender for The Angry Beaver, he told me I wouldn't like it. I asked him why, he said it's nasty and nobody likes it. So I ordered The Sticky Fingers instead. Hmmmm. If no one likes it then why is it on the menu? Lastly, there were some half naked men making out on the big televisions. Lovely really, but did they have to be on both televisions? The other one could have used something for the ladies.
(4)Dan C.
I recently dropped by again, and this place is still the awesome neighborhood joint that it was last year. I highly enjoy the attentive and friendly patrons and bartender every time I stop by. I've never felt judged there, and a year later, still consider this one of my favorite bars for the great atmosphere and getting a good bang for your buck with the drinks.
(5)Anna K.
After reading the reviews on Yelp!, I decided to check out Stir last Saturday with some friends. And yes, it's true- the alleyway looks deceptively sketchy. My friends questioned, "Where are you taking us?!" as we passed by abandoned buildings and dumpsters. We eventually found Stir's plain, unobtrusive green door, however, and entered its secret world-- a chic bar with lots of young people. Jackpot! For the first time in my adventuring through the gayborhood, I'd found a classy, chill bar with people under the age of 35, of varied genders and orientations, all hanging out. I really liked the pop music playing in the background, giving a dose of energy to the otherwise chill scene. The bonus of a dance floor in one of the rooms, too, (with a DJ who listens to requests) gave people the opportunity to dance if they wanted to. In both of the two rooms with bars, however, there was lots of chatting and general hanging out. The only thing I found sort of strange was the medieval battle movie playing on the tv above the bar. Oh, and the drinks were great. The names are hilarious, but even better is the delicate fusion of tastes with each creative combination. The bartender was really nice and attentive, too. I am definitely coming back soon.
(4)Paige W.
Just one drink. You know the good intentions after a long hard day. Just one itsy bitsy drink and the new bar. Why must they be so deceivingly delicious!? One "Dirty Girl" which tastes like rasberry sorbet turns into three - three because for the second one the bartender fills two glasses and tells me I get an extra one because he mixed too much! And the "Jackie-O-Nos" were like creamsicles, which of course my friend Jackie "oh no - couldnt refuse!" :) It's true what they say that the coolest places are the most nondescript and hard to find. Damn, all these five star reviews might make it hard for me to get a bar stool!
(5)Aymee S.
Visited Stir a few weeks ago with some friends. Recommended by another friend. Easy to miss off an alley in the Rittenhouse area-but super close to Little Pete's diner so prime real estate really! haha. Great decor. Two bars. Cheap and strong drinks before midnight. Great DJ, great sound system. Sadly tho, no one was really dancing ( saturday night). Not sure if it was an off night or what but with no one on the dancefloor it's hard to get enthused enough to come back. Would return, but with a large group only.
(3)Melissa P.
I am astounded by this spot's emptiness. There we were, in the heart of Rittenhouse, drinking awkwardly low priced drinks. The place was empty and we filled it with laughter and cheer. It is the perfect bat cave locale for a predrink. It deserves to be more than that. It deserves a line At the door though selfishly, that's not what I want. Take one for the team and pay Stir a visit. You will get seat and a strong drink.
(5)Nat P.
I met a friend out for a drink one night. He wanted to go to some new place that was on the Square. I was like what new place, how come I hadn't heard about it or seen it. Well if I didnt get the directions to this place I wouldnt have happened by it. Walking down the side street behind Rouge (Chancellor St.), and a couple feet down in front of a dumpster is a door on the left that says "Stir." We got to the place and I was like "okay." But when we walked in I was like "okaaaaay." I was quite surprised. The shady looking exterior was transformed into a swank, cool interior. Walking in you are right at the main bar which has plenty of seating and nice, friendly bartenders who are very attentive. Lots of nice art and cool decor. Walking down a ways from the front are the restrooms a small seating area and then another cool bar area surrounded by bench style seating, and some more cool art. I would have preferred that the seating directly in front of the bar were not there since it gets cramped if people are seated there and the bar area is crowded. There is a small dance floor to the left of the bar and the Dj is there as well. This seems to be a cool, place to have a few drinks and hang out with friends, but not a pick up place if thats what you are looking for. The crowd is mixed, gay, straight, bi, what have you. But all are friendly, fun and not as pretentious as some places on the Square. Nice to see some diversity on the Square!
(4)Michael O.
Yay! A gay bar right at Rittenhouse Square. And it's a nice one. The front is a full square shaped bar with stools. The back has some lounge seating and a bar and a small dance area. It's a really clean, nice place. The staff was really friendly, even saying "goodnight" on the way out the door. They also take plastic, so you can just open up a tab and have fun. Great place, I'll definitely be back.
(4)Erica S.
Philly gays totally needed this place. There are so many good things about it that I'm not sure where to begin. The atmosphere: you walk down a shady alley and there is a door. Emerge into the door and there is a tasteful, hip, yet not pretentious decor. Who knew that this used to be the Post?? I was able to easily get seats around the front bar, and you can actually hear your conversations with your friends. The cilentele: good mix of genders, as opposed to some gay bars which cater to or just seem to appeal to only one. The bartenders: Funny, friendly, talented. The guy who served me always mixed up more than one glassful for each drink I ordered- and poured me the extra every time. When I got a kir royale, I got a baby bottle of champagne all my own. Then, extra Chambord later, just because! Good, strong drinks. The names are a bit too cute, but they're good drinks, so I can get past that. The promotions: I signed up for the mailing list, so they've been notifying me about things like Eagles game night (a free shot on every touchdown, what!?) and Ladies' Happy Hour. It's simple, and it's good: a new place to drink and talk to your friends where the drinks are good and strong, and no one is trying too hard. Another plus: unisex, single stall bathrooms. All LGBTQ places should have them, thx!
(4)R H.
U City students mixing with Center City professionals in this hip, happening joint with killer DJs and righteous cocktails. Nice mix of cute gay boys and classy lesbians. It's far enough from the ghetto to keep the riff raff out, and hard to find so it keeps out the meth whores. The owner runs a tight ship and doesn't put up with crap, while keeping the place clean and having fun with the patrons. Small, but perfectly formed...with a good vibe, nice decor and two bars to either sit and chill or cram into the little dance floor.
(5)itasha c.
As I go up the dark alley way to go to the infamous stir I find that this place was just what I was looking for it had just the right crowd no more than 20 people( being by myself I counted). There were more men than women which made me ask the bartender whats up did I come on the wrong night!!!! He informed me on the best days to come in and also gave me a little history about stir. After having about 2 very stong johnnywalkers and coke I was ready to leave and go dance and do some karoke at taven on camac.
(3)Krista B.
Oh, how I miss The Post.....but someone made The Post grow up and clean up and now she's Stir. Lots of the same regulars (who also miss the non-ceiling and butts mural) sitting around the same bar, so it really still has a lot of the flavor it always had. Great place to land if you want to be in a darker little hole in the wall....and I want to...right now, actually. The crowd is very friendly. Do keep in mind this is really the only "gay" place (at least that I know of) outside of the Gayborhood...so if you're looking for it to be crowded with snot-nose snubbers, head to Bump. This place is for the more laid-back and less judgmental among us.
(3)Joseph G.
I love Stir! It is a bit out of the way, but whenever I visit, I always have a good time. The layout is so nice, it is perfect to meet up with someone to chat or post-date drink :-P. I tried some of the new signature drinks and the Melancholy was a very good drink. I would recommend. If you have someone visiting out of town, I would direct them here in your tour of the Rittenhouse Square area.
(5)Cynthia H.
This is my private, salacious, jewel of a bar.(well, maybe not super private, after the rave reviews) I come here after my work usually. I meet some collegues, old/new friends, and sometimes my hubby here. After a long, productive day of doin hair, I sometimes like to just blend in (difficult I know) throw a few back, and act the fool. Well, at Stir, Rhino and Angela make no qualms about servin up the perfect drinks. You never sit with an empty glass, feel neglected or have to ask for anything twice. The atmosphere is mostly loud and gleeful!! You can also watch the world news, or the Phils, while decompressing from a long day. Also, they give you a nice little glass of a wasabi nut mix, which often serves as my dinner, bc I went the liquid route.....The final bill, pretty great, especially for Rittenhouse....Did I mention I love it here??
(5)Michael M.
Tucked away off rittenhouse square, this cozy bar provides a great alternative to some of the trendier ones on the square itself. Fair priced drinks, strong poured by the ever pleasant Anthony (formerly of Sampan fame) take the edge off any stressful day.
(4)Casey T.
This place holds a special place in my heart. Many memories and good times, and this is all before 7 o'clock! Go see Rhino. He's gorg! And Stayvay, or Stacey, is my favorite business owner this side of the Mason Dixon... Kthx. Only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because I haven't met the man of my dreams yet. But seriously, drinks are pretty cheap, and it's a hidden jem amongst a rest of the same old **** in the gayby-hood.
(4)Julianna K.
The other night was my first visit to Stir. At first I thought we were being taken to a dark alley to be murdered because of its weird location, but then saw that the place actually exists. It's like some secret, little tiny hole in the wall bar with friendly bartenders and a cool crowd. I never felt intimidated or out of place because I'm straight, and had a great time. At one point, the money my friend and I had put on the bar for drinks disappeared (another friend had moved it over) and the bartender pretty much said don't worry about it. How cool is that? Of course as soon as the money was recovered we paid him and left him a good tip. The drinks are really good; my gin and tonic was dynamite. At the close of the evening, a friend of a friend (who was pretty drunk and will remain nameless) accused me and my friend of taking his money on the bar, and he went so far as to say the "big one" did it, meaning me because I'm taller! I have never been called a "big one" in my life and was shocked, but everyone thought it was hysterical and I later laughed it off too. Not that this has any reflection on Stir, I just thought it was a funny side note. The interior is tight but clean looking and the television switched back and forth between male models on a runway and big bootied women stripping on a pole. So there really is something for everyone!
(4)Lisa P.
stirsday - go! that is all.
(5)Sean H.
I'd heard all about Stir for a while, and I finally managed to drag myself blocks and blocks west to pay it a visit. Honestly, I wasn't amazed. My favorite parts were the bathrooms and the eclectic videos they had playing on the TVs. The drinks were standard, but not poured with the notoriously heavy hand characteristic of gay bars. We also attracted a lot of stares, maybe because we weren't regulars and given how dead it was, it seemed like everyone there was a regular customer. But I'm glad I've tried and may give it another go with a different group.
(4)Michael H.
Conveniently located, warm fun happy place I always look forward to my time there.
(5)Lauren J.
Thirsty Thursdays for $1 drinks ($5 cover). Friendly bartenders. Good crowd. Just wish there was a slightly bigger dance floor. Yet I love that it is small enough to feel intimate like your good old neighborhood gay dive. Highly recommended. I preferred Stir even before Sisters closed. Now if only one didn't have to walk by two parking garages and a dumpster to get there...
(5)Dredge K.
good if you like mixed crowds: girls, boys, girly girls, girly boys, boyish girls, boyish boys. kinda tame, the place u'd take momma but not your out of town friends
(3)Carrie E.
My new favorite bar in Philly - without a doubt. Stephanie M took Jenny V and me here because she knew I'd love it, and she was right. Gay, straight, whatev...the bartenders here take good care of you and will make sure you leave feeling gooooddddd. I highly recommend the "Dirty Girl" or the "Pussy Galore," because not only do they taste good and pack a mighty wallop (as does the "Blue Balls," tee he he, which we also tried) but they also look cool. So whether you're a girly girl, boyz type gal, dude who is into other dudes or a straight up straight chick or guy with an open mind, come here. Not only is there no sign, which I am totally into, but the decor is lovely and the bartenders and clientele are beautiful. So go already! You're totally missing out if you don't. So much so that I went back with the boy on a Sunday afternoon. The STRAIGHT boy, btw, so that says a lot. ' Cause Stir loves everyone, and it shows. Can't wait to go back again, not only 'cause it's like my L Word fantasy come true on a Saturday night (seriously) but because it's great to support a new local biz with an awesome owner who gives a shit. So whatever you're into, who cares...go have a cocktail or a beer at Stir, 'cause they RULE!
(5)Stephanie P.
#72 HOLY MOLY, how had I never heard of Stir's Thursday $1 well-drinks special before?! We finally made our way over to Stir this past Thursday around 9:30PM and we DRANK our way through the night. Angela was an awesome bartender, as she remembered our drinks each time we re-ordered. People-watching became our game of the night and it was absolutely entertaining observing people trying to make a hot impression. Of course, there were the typical college babies who were excited to be out on a Thursday night making a scene, but it only contributed more to our people-watching. Angela made each drink equally strong, even as the night progressed, and the boyfriend and I spent a mere $14 for a total of 5 drinks each and plenty of tip. The DJ also did a great job with the music that night, keeping us on our toes and enough people were dancing to make it a jovial (and not creepy) experience. Stir, you've made a fan out of me!
(4)Richard B.
This lounge is chill ive had some good times with it. People r strange.. but thats probably cause theyre gay. Hahah Bar beer selection is limited. But i would go here for the $1 pbr nites.
(3)Barry J.
Love happy hour at Stir; especially on Friday! Friendliest staff and clientele in the city. Always an interesting music and video selection playing. Drinks are nicely mixed too!!
(5)Eric J.
If you can brave a swathe of Chancellor Street frequented by the homeless and (worse) Rittenhouse waitstaff , then you should skip over the rats at murky puddles to Stir. Pure Heaven. There's no giggling gaggle of Gays. The drama remains in Hell, where it belongs. The men are a diverse crew and the bartenders are handsome and competent. And the specials makes my cold drunken heart sing. Imagine a very gay troll who found a crack infested cave in Chancellor street. Appalled and itching for a fashionable home, he eats all the maddened crack heads and makes his gay, troll-like grotto. The place is dark and cave-like, yes, but the decor is fun, tasteful and promotes a quiet feel at Stir. And I have never been to a gay bar in Philly where a guy was promoting an event ( poker night) while not using an unctuous, sex-slathered tone that makes him sound lobotomized. This place is highly recommended, if for an alternative to the Gayborhood.
(4)JEAN S.
I have a new favorite drink at Stir - the Caramel Electra. It's vodka, butterscotch schnapps(try saying butterscotch schnapps after drinking a few), a little apple cider, and a cinnamon sugar rim. It sounds sugary and gross but it's dangerous! Best to enjoy with a large bowl of goldfish crackers.
(4)Arnab M.
Cute, but tiny bar! It was rather empty though, for a Thursday night, or perhaps Thursday is happening only in NYC! Inexpensive drinks, cute decor, friendly bartender and big screen televisions made for a relaxing couple of drinks after work. Stir is rather hard to find though, since it's pretty much on this alleyway, but luckily the hotel concierge gave me accurate directions. Perhaps I'll get check it out another time over the weekend.
(3)dj d.
I'm happy to write a review for stir. To open with, the owners of the venue are an absolute gem and delight to associate with. It's wonderful to see people who keep a clean environment, are happy about seeing customers happy, and extend themselves in courteous and professional ways. I dj'd my first event here last friday and was thrilled with the staff and their dealings with my party people...no drama, no issues, all good vibes. The service seems to be quick and hassle free. Drinks are original and have fun names (the big prick...ha! classic) There's 2 sections to the environment...the front bar and the back bar, which are seperated by the loungey area and bathrooms. They have a coat check. dj booth is fun. color scheme of the bar/club is really really nice and makes for great party photos. Stir is a place for everyone from my perspective. Even though it is "gay" club, anyone with an open mind and a willingness to have fun will, without question, enjoy themselves and feel quite comfortable and happy about stopping in. Oh, last thing, stir is located on Chancellor street, which looks like nothing more than an alley way, and has NO sign out front, so mapquest it if you're driving....you'll find it, and yes, it's totally safe.
(5)Jen L.
Adorable and fun, kind of a secret, hidden away in a dark and wet alley. I'm not gay but my friend is, and he was interested in stopping in. I like the decor and the little cups of snack mix served at the bar.
(4)Chenai G.
The thing about Stir is, you really have to know when to go. About once a month, maybe even more often, there is a pretty happening all girl party that has alot of women of color. It's a very good looking, mainstream kind of queer crowd. No crunchiness here. I'm a very laid back person, so for like minded folks I'll throw in that it can be a little overwhelming to deal with the wannabe glitz and glam aura that seems to hang in the air before I have a few drinks. BUT, it's not hood like Libations so I'll go once in a while. A plus: there is a candlelit lounge area that invites people to flirt with their potential whomever, AND a dance floor that gets pretty popping. Like I said though, you have to know when to go. The first time I went there was meant to be a party, something on a Sunday evening from 4 to seven pm that had "rocked" the week before. (I heard this INCORRECTLY through the grapevine) But when I got there, it was an empty room. But the bartender was nice, my friend and I got to catching up, and the decor made me feel fabulous.
(3)maia w.
RIP to 'the post', but with all due respect, we needed another gay bar in philly. each one is generally for its own little segment of folks, and stir is a little bit more open to everything than most are these days. they have some good promotional events, the bartenders are very nice, and they have unisex, single bathrooms (which just make sense). i've been once and i look forward to going again...
(4)Mark P.
well for being 100% straight I have been spending way to much time in gay clubs/bars lately- then again I dj at Pure and I am friends with the mayor of the gayborhood aka the manager of Pure, Woodys, Bump and god knows what else. Anyway I was at Alma having some drinks last night and my friend joined me who is a bartender at Stir and she was yelling at me to come in. So I headed over with the manager of Pure and it was definitely a nice surprise. One of those "if you dont know where it is you will never find it" type places. The lay out is very cool - bars at either end with a long wide hallway in between. I met one of the owners and she was amazingly nice. The shot girl was feeding me something that was tasty and my friend bartending made me some insanely strong drinks. There was a good mix of people in there last night gay. straight, whatever - defintely a fun time. I was told I was cute several times though...ha I guess thats a compliment althought I like my girls to actually be girls. Call me crazy... Anyway def recommend stopping by a great addition to rittenhouse
(5)Steph M.
The recently-opened Stir is a welcome addition to Philly's gay nightlife. Stacey and Holly took over the old Post location and pulled off a miraculous transformation. The formerly dark and dirty space is now fresh, swanky and cozy without feeling cramped (though I can imagine it might be if full to capacity). There are two bars, front and back, with those frosted glass door bathrooms that freak me out in between. (I know you can't see through the glass, but I still get all self-conscious in them.) The crowd seems to be a constant ebb and flow of attractive guys and girls. Speaking of flow, the drinks keep flowing too, and they are strong! You'll probably think you're headed the wrong way when you try to find it, since the entrance is on a sort of dirty alley. But soldier on--it's worth it when you get inside.
(5)jenny v.
Three chicks walk into a gay bar and the bartender says, "hey, want a pearl necklace?"! No joke, friends. When two lovely ladies invite you down a dark alley to check out a new gay bar, you go, and you go fast! The relatively underground location of this place (down an alley, across from a dumpster, with no visible sign until you get right up on the door) conjures up some seedy images, but just beyond the wardrobe, you're whisked into a magical fairyland (ahem) that is stylish without being all uppity. One glance at the drink menu and I knew I was home: all things fruity and fabulously named. It's the first time I've ever really wanted a Pearl Necklace, and Blue Balls - as far as I know - have never tasted so sweet. I can't resist a venue poking gentle fun at itself, especially when it pokes me back. Wink, wink.
(5)Sean H.
I'd heard all about Stir for a while, and I finally managed to drag myself blocks and blocks west to pay it a visit. Honestly, I wasn't amazed. My favorite parts were the bathrooms and the eclectic videos they had playing on the TVs. The drinks were standard, but not poured with the notoriously heavy hand characteristic of gay bars. We also attracted a lot of stares, maybe because we weren't regulars and given how dead it was, it seemed like everyone there was a regular customer. But I'm glad I've tried and may give it another go with a different group.
(4)Michael H.
Conveniently located, warm fun happy place I always look forward to my time there.
(5)Joseph G.
I love Stir! It is a bit out of the way, but whenever I visit, I always have a good time. The layout is so nice, it is perfect to meet up with someone to chat or post-date drink :-P. I tried some of the new signature drinks and the Melancholy was a very good drink. I would recommend. If you have someone visiting out of town, I would direct them here in your tour of the Rittenhouse Square area.
(5)Jason F.
I was looking for a nice place to get a few cocktails on Thanksgiving after spending the day with family. So my brother, his girlfriend, and I discovered Stir in this nondescript alley a block and half from the hotel we were staying at. Being Thanksgiving, there were few patrons in there. We plopped down at the bar for a spell and proceeded to have a nice time. The music videos were entertaining, but not so loud that you couldn't carry on a conversation. The bartender was charming, and very easy on the eyes. I mean hello, it is a gay bar! and newsflash, I am gay! I didn't know it was a gay bar until we entered the place. My brother didn't seem to care. He's such a good supporter of his gay bro. Anyway, the drinks were ice cold, the shots were wonderful, and we had a really nice time in there. I would like to go back the next time in Philly, to see what it's like when it's a little busier. I suspect it can be a bit of a cruisy place. And who doesn't enjoy some nice man candy with their ice cold drinks?
(4)Lisa P.
stirsday - go! that is all.
(5)Janine G.
After trolling around the Gayborhood and getting the usual "blahs" after Woody's, 12th Air, and wherever else my friends and I had gone that Saturday night, a friend called and invited us to come out to Stir. Five blocks and seemingly hours of direction-giving later (this off-the-beaten-path-block to this alleyway behind this dumpster...), we arrived at Stir. [Note: watch out for aggressive beggars outside. We saw quite a bit of this when a friend went out for a smoke.] While the outside might lead you to think the worst, the inside atmosphere is fantastic. Stir is small, but not cramped -- more like intimate. There was a lot of space to sit at chat with friends at the bar and in the hallway. Plenty of attractive faces (both patrons and bartenders)...and I'll never argue with that! The bar menu had plenty of cocktails with fantastically filthy names, and the ones my friends and I ordered were great! The prices were a little high, but we seemed to be there during one of the few hours per week that Stir doesn't run drink specials (as per what I've read since). No cover on that particular night though, which is a big win over most places on the other side of Broad. My favorite thing about Stir? Finally, an LGBT place that's in Center City but away from the Gayborhood. Sometimes you're looking for something less crowded and lower-key...even on the weekend. Better yet, my friends and I (1 bisexual woman, 1 gay man, 1 transman, 1 questioning woman, 1 straight woman) ALL felt comfortable in there. We'll definitely be back!
(5)Rebecca G.
Visiting from So. Cal, I stopped into this bar for a quick beer. It was a Sunday night and the bar was DEAD! 3 boys (including the bartender). Not a female in sight :( The interior is very nice and the service was great, considering there was only 3 customers!
(3)Stephen H.
Best place in Philly to get a stiff one. Seriously, super strong but well made cocktails, bartenders are efficient, and the happy hour is never usually crowded. a great place to start up an evening out, lubricate the wheels after a long work day. If you are going to let sexual orientation, affect your ability to get a potent drink at a good price in rittenhouse, you better rethink your priorities Son.* *I never use "Son" and promise to not to again, it just seemed appropriate.
(4)Cynthia H.
This is my private, salacious, jewel of a bar.(well, maybe not super private, after the rave reviews) I come here after my work usually. I meet some collegues, old/new friends, and sometimes my hubby here. After a long, productive day of doin hair, I sometimes like to just blend in (difficult I know) throw a few back, and act the fool. Well, at Stir, Rhino and Angela make no qualms about servin up the perfect drinks. You never sit with an empty glass, feel neglected or have to ask for anything twice. The atmosphere is mostly loud and gleeful!! You can also watch the world news, or the Phils, while decompressing from a long day. Also, they give you a nice little glass of a wasabi nut mix, which often serves as my dinner, bc I went the liquid route.....The final bill, pretty great, especially for Rittenhouse....Did I mention I love it here??
(5)Michael M.
Tucked away off rittenhouse square, this cozy bar provides a great alternative to some of the trendier ones on the square itself. Fair priced drinks, strong poured by the ever pleasant Anthony (formerly of Sampan fame) take the edge off any stressful day.
(4)Casey T.
This place holds a special place in my heart. Many memories and good times, and this is all before 7 o'clock! Go see Rhino. He's gorg! And Stayvay, or Stacey, is my favorite business owner this side of the Mason Dixon... Kthx. Only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because I haven't met the man of my dreams yet. But seriously, drinks are pretty cheap, and it's a hidden jem amongst a rest of the same old **** in the gayby-hood.
(4)Julianna K.
The other night was my first visit to Stir. At first I thought we were being taken to a dark alley to be murdered because of its weird location, but then saw that the place actually exists. It's like some secret, little tiny hole in the wall bar with friendly bartenders and a cool crowd. I never felt intimidated or out of place because I'm straight, and had a great time. At one point, the money my friend and I had put on the bar for drinks disappeared (another friend had moved it over) and the bartender pretty much said don't worry about it. How cool is that? Of course as soon as the money was recovered we paid him and left him a good tip. The drinks are really good; my gin and tonic was dynamite. At the close of the evening, a friend of a friend (who was pretty drunk and will remain nameless) accused me and my friend of taking his money on the bar, and he went so far as to say the "big one" did it, meaning me because I'm taller! I have never been called a "big one" in my life and was shocked, but everyone thought it was hysterical and I later laughed it off too. Not that this has any reflection on Stir, I just thought it was a funny side note. The interior is tight but clean looking and the television switched back and forth between male models on a runway and big bootied women stripping on a pole. So there really is something for everyone!
(4)Nora S.
I'm glad I gave Stir another try before reviewing. I first went to Stir on a Saturday night, and I must have been surrounded by a special party, or something, because it seemed to be an establishment geared towards older individuals. My friends and I had a great time, but we left thinking - ok, well, that was fun, but let's not go back for another 25 years or so. In 25 years, it will be just the place. But then I was talking about Stir with a friend and learned that she had a completely different experience. We decided to go back and give it another look. So, it turns out, that Saturday must have been a special night, because when I went back (on a Tuesday) the crowd was much younger. That said, on both occasions I was very pleased by the seemingly even distribution of men and women, a true gay AND lesbian bar, and to see a variety of ages together. Now about the drinks: they're different, which is fun. At happy hour ($2 off!) I tried something called The Sticky Fingers, which tasted like both Christmas and an appletini at the same time so naturally I was pleased. I ended up getting The Sticky Fingers because when I asked the bartender for The Angry Beaver, he told me I wouldn't like it. I asked him why, he said it's nasty and nobody likes it. So I ordered The Sticky Fingers instead. Hmmmm. If no one likes it then why is it on the menu? Lastly, there were some half naked men making out on the big televisions. Lovely really, but did they have to be on both televisions? The other one could have used something for the ladies.
(4)Dan C.
I recently dropped by again, and this place is still the awesome neighborhood joint that it was last year. I highly enjoy the attentive and friendly patrons and bartender every time I stop by. I've never felt judged there, and a year later, still consider this one of my favorite bars for the great atmosphere and getting a good bang for your buck with the drinks.
(5)Krista B.
Oh, how I miss The Post.....but someone made The Post grow up and clean up and now she's Stir. Lots of the same regulars (who also miss the non-ceiling and butts mural) sitting around the same bar, so it really still has a lot of the flavor it always had. Great place to land if you want to be in a darker little hole in the wall....and I want to...right now, actually. The crowd is very friendly. Do keep in mind this is really the only "gay" place (at least that I know of) outside of the Gayborhood...so if you're looking for it to be crowded with snot-nose snubbers, head to Bump. This place is for the more laid-back and less judgmental among us.
(3)MaryAnn Z.
So. OK. I really wanted to love this place. For one, it's the closest gay establishment to my house. Beyond that, well, there just needed to be more options. But there's just something about it that, I don't know, fucks with my chi? I've been there a few times. It's too bright. When it gets crowded, I hate the set up--there's just no way to not feel like you're in someone's/everyone's way. The decor is really nice, and the bathrooms are cool, and so on. I actually really like the decor. I think it's just too difficult to navigate. There isn't much space to sit comfortably at the front bar with people walking in and out, and sitting at the back bar is just not really possible. The bartenders are nice (HOT) and the music is alright. I don't know. It's just average. If it weren't a gay bar, I'd never go back. And I give them credit for putting so much effort into it. Drinks are average price.
(2)Anna K.
After reading the reviews on Yelp!, I decided to check out Stir last Saturday with some friends. And yes, it's true- the alleyway looks deceptively sketchy. My friends questioned, "Where are you taking us?!" as we passed by abandoned buildings and dumpsters. We eventually found Stir's plain, unobtrusive green door, however, and entered its secret world-- a chic bar with lots of young people. Jackpot! For the first time in my adventuring through the gayborhood, I'd found a classy, chill bar with people under the age of 35, of varied genders and orientations, all hanging out. I really liked the pop music playing in the background, giving a dose of energy to the otherwise chill scene. The bonus of a dance floor in one of the rooms, too, (with a DJ who listens to requests) gave people the opportunity to dance if they wanted to. In both of the two rooms with bars, however, there was lots of chatting and general hanging out. The only thing I found sort of strange was the medieval battle movie playing on the tv above the bar. Oh, and the drinks were great. The names are hilarious, but even better is the delicate fusion of tastes with each creative combination. The bartender was really nice and attentive, too. I am definitely coming back soon.
(4)Paige W.
Just one drink. You know the good intentions after a long hard day. Just one itsy bitsy drink and the new bar. Why must they be so deceivingly delicious!? One "Dirty Girl" which tastes like rasberry sorbet turns into three - three because for the second one the bartender fills two glasses and tells me I get an extra one because he mixed too much! And the "Jackie-O-Nos" were like creamsicles, which of course my friend Jackie "oh no - couldnt refuse!" :) It's true what they say that the coolest places are the most nondescript and hard to find. Damn, all these five star reviews might make it hard for me to get a bar stool!
(5)Nat P.
I met a friend out for a drink one night. He wanted to go to some new place that was on the Square. I was like what new place, how come I hadn't heard about it or seen it. Well if I didnt get the directions to this place I wouldnt have happened by it. Walking down the side street behind Rouge (Chancellor St.), and a couple feet down in front of a dumpster is a door on the left that says "Stir." We got to the place and I was like "okay." But when we walked in I was like "okaaaaay." I was quite surprised. The shady looking exterior was transformed into a swank, cool interior. Walking in you are right at the main bar which has plenty of seating and nice, friendly bartenders who are very attentive. Lots of nice art and cool decor. Walking down a ways from the front are the restrooms a small seating area and then another cool bar area surrounded by bench style seating, and some more cool art. I would have preferred that the seating directly in front of the bar were not there since it gets cramped if people are seated there and the bar area is crowded. There is a small dance floor to the left of the bar and the Dj is there as well. This seems to be a cool, place to have a few drinks and hang out with friends, but not a pick up place if thats what you are looking for. The crowd is mixed, gay, straight, bi, what have you. But all are friendly, fun and not as pretentious as some places on the Square. Nice to see some diversity on the Square!
(4)Michael O.
Yay! A gay bar right at Rittenhouse Square. And it's a nice one. The front is a full square shaped bar with stools. The back has some lounge seating and a bar and a small dance area. It's a really clean, nice place. The staff was really friendly, even saying "goodnight" on the way out the door. They also take plastic, so you can just open up a tab and have fun. Great place, I'll definitely be back.
(4)Arnab M.
Cute, but tiny bar! It was rather empty though, for a Thursday night, or perhaps Thursday is happening only in NYC! Inexpensive drinks, cute decor, friendly bartender and big screen televisions made for a relaxing couple of drinks after work. Stir is rather hard to find though, since it's pretty much on this alleyway, but luckily the hotel concierge gave me accurate directions. Perhaps I'll get check it out another time over the weekend.
(3)JEAN S.
I have a new favorite drink at Stir - the Caramel Electra. It's vodka, butterscotch schnapps(try saying butterscotch schnapps after drinking a few), a little apple cider, and a cinnamon sugar rim. It sounds sugary and gross but it's dangerous! Best to enjoy with a large bowl of goldfish crackers.
(4)Erica S.
Philly gays totally needed this place. There are so many good things about it that I'm not sure where to begin. The atmosphere: you walk down a shady alley and there is a door. Emerge into the door and there is a tasteful, hip, yet not pretentious decor. Who knew that this used to be the Post?? I was able to easily get seats around the front bar, and you can actually hear your conversations with your friends. The cilentele: good mix of genders, as opposed to some gay bars which cater to or just seem to appeal to only one. The bartenders: Funny, friendly, talented. The guy who served me always mixed up more than one glassful for each drink I ordered- and poured me the extra every time. When I got a kir royale, I got a baby bottle of champagne all my own. Then, extra Chambord later, just because! Good, strong drinks. The names are a bit too cute, but they're good drinks, so I can get past that. The promotions: I signed up for the mailing list, so they've been notifying me about things like Eagles game night (a free shot on every touchdown, what!?) and Ladies' Happy Hour. It's simple, and it's good: a new place to drink and talk to your friends where the drinks are good and strong, and no one is trying too hard. Another plus: unisex, single stall bathrooms. All LGBTQ places should have them, thx!
(4)Aymee S.
Visited Stir a few weeks ago with some friends. Recommended by another friend. Easy to miss off an alley in the Rittenhouse area-but super close to Little Pete's diner so prime real estate really! haha. Great decor. Two bars. Cheap and strong drinks before midnight. Great DJ, great sound system. Sadly tho, no one was really dancing ( saturday night). Not sure if it was an off night or what but with no one on the dancefloor it's hard to get enthused enough to come back. Would return, but with a large group only.
(3)Melissa P.
I am astounded by this spot's emptiness. There we were, in the heart of Rittenhouse, drinking awkwardly low priced drinks. The place was empty and we filled it with laughter and cheer. It is the perfect bat cave locale for a predrink. It deserves to be more than that. It deserves a line At the door though selfishly, that's not what I want. Take one for the team and pay Stir a visit. You will get seat and a strong drink.
(5)R H.
U City students mixing with Center City professionals in this hip, happening joint with killer DJs and righteous cocktails. Nice mix of cute gay boys and classy lesbians. It's far enough from the ghetto to keep the riff raff out, and hard to find so it keeps out the meth whores. The owner runs a tight ship and doesn't put up with crap, while keeping the place clean and having fun with the patrons. Small, but perfectly formed...with a good vibe, nice decor and two bars to either sit and chill or cram into the little dance floor.
(5)itasha c.
As I go up the dark alley way to go to the infamous stir I find that this place was just what I was looking for it had just the right crowd no more than 20 people( being by myself I counted). There were more men than women which made me ask the bartender whats up did I come on the wrong night!!!! He informed me on the best days to come in and also gave me a little history about stir. After having about 2 very stong johnnywalkers and coke I was ready to leave and go dance and do some karoke at taven on camac.
(3)Stephanie P.
#72 HOLY MOLY, how had I never heard of Stir's Thursday $1 well-drinks special before?! We finally made our way over to Stir this past Thursday around 9:30PM and we DRANK our way through the night. Angela was an awesome bartender, as she remembered our drinks each time we re-ordered. People-watching became our game of the night and it was absolutely entertaining observing people trying to make a hot impression. Of course, there were the typical college babies who were excited to be out on a Thursday night making a scene, but it only contributed more to our people-watching. Angela made each drink equally strong, even as the night progressed, and the boyfriend and I spent a mere $14 for a total of 5 drinks each and plenty of tip. The DJ also did a great job with the music that night, keeping us on our toes and enough people were dancing to make it a jovial (and not creepy) experience. Stir, you've made a fan out of me!
(4)dj d.
I'm happy to write a review for stir. To open with, the owners of the venue are an absolute gem and delight to associate with. It's wonderful to see people who keep a clean environment, are happy about seeing customers happy, and extend themselves in courteous and professional ways. I dj'd my first event here last friday and was thrilled with the staff and their dealings with my party people...no drama, no issues, all good vibes. The service seems to be quick and hassle free. Drinks are original and have fun names (the big prick...ha! classic) There's 2 sections to the environment...the front bar and the back bar, which are seperated by the loungey area and bathrooms. They have a coat check. dj booth is fun. color scheme of the bar/club is really really nice and makes for great party photos. Stir is a place for everyone from my perspective. Even though it is "gay" club, anyone with an open mind and a willingness to have fun will, without question, enjoy themselves and feel quite comfortable and happy about stopping in. Oh, last thing, stir is located on Chancellor street, which looks like nothing more than an alley way, and has NO sign out front, so mapquest it if you're driving....you'll find it, and yes, it's totally safe.
(5)Dredge K.
good if you like mixed crowds: girls, boys, girly girls, girly boys, boyish girls, boyish boys. kinda tame, the place u'd take momma but not your out of town friends
(3)Carrie E.
My new favorite bar in Philly - without a doubt. Stephanie M took Jenny V and me here because she knew I'd love it, and she was right. Gay, straight, whatev...the bartenders here take good care of you and will make sure you leave feeling gooooddddd. I highly recommend the "Dirty Girl" or the "Pussy Galore," because not only do they taste good and pack a mighty wallop (as does the "Blue Balls," tee he he, which we also tried) but they also look cool. So whether you're a girly girl, boyz type gal, dude who is into other dudes or a straight up straight chick or guy with an open mind, come here. Not only is there no sign, which I am totally into, but the decor is lovely and the bartenders and clientele are beautiful. So go already! You're totally missing out if you don't. So much so that I went back with the boy on a Sunday afternoon. The STRAIGHT boy, btw, so that says a lot. ' Cause Stir loves everyone, and it shows. Can't wait to go back again, not only 'cause it's like my L Word fantasy come true on a Saturday night (seriously) but because it's great to support a new local biz with an awesome owner who gives a shit. So whatever you're into, who cares...go have a cocktail or a beer at Stir, 'cause they RULE!
(5)Mark P.
well for being 100% straight I have been spending way to much time in gay clubs/bars lately- then again I dj at Pure and I am friends with the mayor of the gayborhood aka the manager of Pure, Woodys, Bump and god knows what else. Anyway I was at Alma having some drinks last night and my friend joined me who is a bartender at Stir and she was yelling at me to come in. So I headed over with the manager of Pure and it was definitely a nice surprise. One of those "if you dont know where it is you will never find it" type places. The lay out is very cool - bars at either end with a long wide hallway in between. I met one of the owners and she was amazingly nice. The shot girl was feeding me something that was tasty and my friend bartending made me some insanely strong drinks. There was a good mix of people in there last night gay. straight, whatever - defintely a fun time. I was told I was cute several times though...ha I guess thats a compliment althought I like my girls to actually be girls. Call me crazy... Anyway def recommend stopping by a great addition to rittenhouse
(5)Steph M.
The recently-opened Stir is a welcome addition to Philly's gay nightlife. Stacey and Holly took over the old Post location and pulled off a miraculous transformation. The formerly dark and dirty space is now fresh, swanky and cozy without feeling cramped (though I can imagine it might be if full to capacity). There are two bars, front and back, with those frosted glass door bathrooms that freak me out in between. (I know you can't see through the glass, but I still get all self-conscious in them.) The crowd seems to be a constant ebb and flow of attractive guys and girls. Speaking of flow, the drinks keep flowing too, and they are strong! You'll probably think you're headed the wrong way when you try to find it, since the entrance is on a sort of dirty alley. But soldier on--it's worth it when you get inside.
(5)jenny v.
Three chicks walk into a gay bar and the bartender says, "hey, want a pearl necklace?"! No joke, friends. When two lovely ladies invite you down a dark alley to check out a new gay bar, you go, and you go fast! The relatively underground location of this place (down an alley, across from a dumpster, with no visible sign until you get right up on the door) conjures up some seedy images, but just beyond the wardrobe, you're whisked into a magical fairyland (ahem) that is stylish without being all uppity. One glance at the drink menu and I knew I was home: all things fruity and fabulously named. It's the first time I've ever really wanted a Pearl Necklace, and Blue Balls - as far as I know - have never tasted so sweet. I can't resist a venue poking gentle fun at itself, especially when it pokes me back. Wink, wink.
(5)Jen L.
Adorable and fun, kind of a secret, hidden away in a dark and wet alley. I'm not gay but my friend is, and he was interested in stopping in. I like the decor and the little cups of snack mix served at the bar.
(4)Chenai G.
The thing about Stir is, you really have to know when to go. About once a month, maybe even more often, there is a pretty happening all girl party that has alot of women of color. It's a very good looking, mainstream kind of queer crowd. No crunchiness here. I'm a very laid back person, so for like minded folks I'll throw in that it can be a little overwhelming to deal with the wannabe glitz and glam aura that seems to hang in the air before I have a few drinks. BUT, it's not hood like Libations so I'll go once in a while. A plus: there is a candlelit lounge area that invites people to flirt with their potential whomever, AND a dance floor that gets pretty popping. Like I said though, you have to know when to go. The first time I went there was meant to be a party, something on a Sunday evening from 4 to seven pm that had "rocked" the week before. (I heard this INCORRECTLY through the grapevine) But when I got there, it was an empty room. But the bartender was nice, my friend and I got to catching up, and the decor made me feel fabulous.
(3)maia w.
RIP to 'the post', but with all due respect, we needed another gay bar in philly. each one is generally for its own little segment of folks, and stir is a little bit more open to everything than most are these days. they have some good promotional events, the bartenders are very nice, and they have unisex, single bathrooms (which just make sense). i've been once and i look forward to going again...
(4)Michelle C.
After reading Stephen H's ROTD for Stir last week, I checked out the other reviews and realized I needed to get in on the action as soon as possible. Little did I know how soon I'd be partaking - just days later I found myself walking down Chancellor with a bevy of yelp buds. For some reason, what I pictured Stir to look like and what it actually looked like were two very different things. I had imagined a wall of dark brick and a long chestnut bar with little space to maneuver. What I got was a square bar in the center of a cozy room, plus another bar with more space in the back, and very tasteful décor all around. Added to that was a 'tender who knew how to make a martini just as well as he made every one of us Stir newbs feel welcome. Thanks to Sue for letting me tickle her pickle. I quite liked it, actually.
(5)Marissa B.
Wound up going here on a whim with my now fiance after meeting two new friends (30's something fem and a middle-aged lesbian) walking about Center City who invited us out. Very chill atmosphere, great music (Yes, I love me some Xtina and Madge.), and though I'm not sure if it's all the time they had $2 PBR pints which is a good deal.
(5)Jessica G.
I'm glad I took the recommindation of a fellow yelp user who recommended this place after my traumatizing experience at the last lesbian lounge( which made me rethink my sexuality back to heterism) At first glance it was scary little crowd on a alley street, when you first walk in its like going into a house party were you don't know anyone. The room stopped looked at us then continued. We cozied up in a chair on the side and quickly warmed up. This was a little manhattan and la mixed together with a splash of phili . Cute bartenders, crowd easy on the eyes and I place you can order a decent mixed margarita holds high scored with me. I wanted to give this place 4 stars cause the music was off but at points it got better. For a night in phili that would have been spent feeling like those akward lesbians in a all male gay spot this place sure hit the spot
(5)Amanda C.
Gretchen: OMG that is so fetch. Regina: what is fetch! Gretchen: its like slang; from England. Regina: Gretchen stop trying to make fetch happen, its not going to happen.-Mean Girls I have been accused by my friends of trying to "make Stir happen." I have come to Stir for Happy Hour and $1 Drink Thursdays from 9-11, both were fun and I suggest a visit. On the negative side, I have come here for a few events that were huge disappointments, one being a riot grrl night where there was no riot grrl music played, and once for quizzo where the person who ran it just didn't show up. Hit or Miss for "event" type nights. Could be a better place to meet someone than other gay bars? I like the diverse crowd and friendly service.
(3)Aruna A.
Stir is totally hidden, but AWESOME. I found it on Yelp, and we relocated here after having a great time at a near by bar. I was super excited about it - as I had passed by a number of times and had seen a cool crowd, and heard good music. It is tiny, and hard to find. Additionally, it doesn't look awesome from the outside. Inside, it is TRULY wonderful. Cool loft like space, GREAT drinks, and reasonably priced. Also a really nice bartender was there last night - and I got the impression he was there often. The music is generally good, the space is neat, and the drinks are well priced. What else does one want? I can't wait to go back here on a Thursday - Saturday night. They have a DJ then. Great new bar in the Rittenhouse hood.
(5)Monica S.
Stir wins for being my favorite overall bar in Rittenhouse, not to mention my favorite gay bar in all of Philly. The crowd is always relatively mixed, but the gay men typically outdo the everything else category. Men, women, gay, straight, bi...they're all there though, so don't worry. Located in an alley coated with restaurant kitchen grease, you'd probably not expect much, but prepare to be impressed, the interior is swank, clean, and respectable. For those of you on the prowl, who think Woody's/Bump/Pure/Sisters is too obvious, check out Stir. Chances are there's someone there just like you who's classier, more city savvy, and less cheesy than the rest of them. I can't promise you won't find the meth-heads gunning for a hotel room orgy, but I can say that by taking the Stir detour, you're on the road less traveled and Robert Frost would be proud.
(4)Christina S.
Stir is a great place to go if you want a less 'clubby' feel, and less of a crowd as well. A good thing about Stir is you won't see the SAME people you see at every other gay bar in the city. It gets a bit monotonous going to Mister's and seeing the same cliques of 12 year olds getting wasted every weekend-even tho I like that place too. This is more of an upscale, older crowd and because of that I'm a fan. Stir has good happy hour specials, and the bartenders are polite and nice.
(4)Shamika R.
Awesome little hole in the wall place. Went with my girlfriend when we were just exploring the city. We walked in and the place was full of guys but it wasn't awkward at all. The entrance may seem a little sketchy but once you step foot the large bar and lounge in the back make it all worthwhile. Happy hour is Mon-Fri from 5-7. And yes the drinks are strong! We will definitely be back in the next time we're around.
(5)shana o.
If you want the best Cosmo in the city come visit Angela and have her make you one !!! My friends and I frequent here and it is always a good time :)
(5)Natalie M.
We were in Philly for the weekend and I added this lounge to my list of places to check out, so glad we did! We went on a Saturday and it was pretty quiet, most likely because it was the weekend before Halloween and we saw a lot of people dresses up, most likely heading to parties. I appreciated the list of fall drinks and tried the apple martini, after some convincing from the very nice bartender, the drink was quite good and also quite strong. We snagged a little corner area and cozied up with our drinks, enjoyed the music and conversation. I enjoyed visiting this bar and if I lived in Philly I'd probably be a regular.
(4)Shawn K.
Stir is, by far, my favorite gay/mixed (i.e., everyone is welcome) bar in the city--and that includes the Gayborhood. The GH only wishes they had a place like Stir "for the rest of us." You know, those of us who just want to chill, have a drink, make plans with some friends to meet there, or make new friends you might meet there in the future. The staff has always been super nice and friendly, as are the other patrons, for that matter. I like that it feels like it's kind of a secret & hasn't yet been discovered by the masses. (You guys are more than welcome to stay on your side of Broad.) It's also in a perfect location, obviously, for Rittenhouse residents; however, quite surprisingly, the attitude is minimal (just try finding that at Rogue, less than a block away). Stir isn't too loud, and there's no need to give yourself a sore throat in order to be heard by the person(s) sitting next to you. Overall, a really nice place.
(5)Gina V.
Stir is a hidden gem. It's tucked down an alley, so when you approach you can pretend that you're a spy heading to a clandestine meeting with another secret agent, or sneaking into a top secret fortress. It really is just set up so well! There's a rectangular bar in the middle, around which is plenty of seating and ample space to move behind people even when they're seated without smacking them in the back of the head with your purse, which is pretty important. It's dark so it feels intimate and mysterious, but welcoming at the same time. Then there's another bar in the back that is sometimes open, and a dance floor area. The drinks are strong, the people are friendly, and I highly recommend it!
(4)Emma T.
Really nice, small bar. Divey feel, but still very nicely decorated and a big enough space to have two bars and a karaoke/dance area. The drinks were cheap and very strong, and the bartender was very nice and friendly with absolutely everyone who walked in. Even when I was making a fool of myself and knocked over a completely full drink she'd just placed in front of me, she was super nice and refilled it. It wasn't all that full on a Friday around 10/10:30, but I imagine it fills up a little later.
(4)Kyle S.
Went here for the first time on Thursday, which is a good night to go, since there are $1 well drinks with a $5 cover. The drinks were quite strong, too. I like how Stir is intimate but not claustrophobic, and the clientle is very mixed. The DJ playing music was pretty good. For a Thursday night around 11, it was crowded but not packed, which made getting drinks a breeze. My friends and I had a great time, and will certainly be coming back.
(4)Lauren J.
Thirsty Thursdays for $1 drinks ($5 cover). Friendly bartenders. Good crowd. Just wish there was a slightly bigger dance floor. Yet I love that it is small enough to feel intimate like your good old neighborhood gay dive. Highly recommended. I preferred Stir even before Sisters closed. Now if only one didn't have to walk by two parking garages and a dumpster to get there...
(5)Charlotte H.
As I recall, I had a little bit of difficultly finding this place as the entrance seems like it's in an alleyway. The lounge had two different bars, my friends and I chose the less crowded one in the back. Our bartender was friendly and helpful and made us OUTRAGEOUSLY STRONG drinks. Coke and rum, 80% rum, 10% ice, 10% coke. Our margaritas were even stronger. We had planned on bar hoping, but stuck around for another drink our two because of the strong drinks and cold wind outside. I'd recommend Stir for the drinks and the abundance of fairly cozy seating.
(4)Paola D.
This is without a doubt one of the best pieces of food I've ever tried! The tilefish was perfect, the corn soup was amazing and dessert was even better. The decor is warm and inviting as well as the wait staff, who provide awesome service. Has to be one the best restaurants in town.
(5)M P.
Kind of hidden, found it by accident but glad I did. Great little hideaway! Drinks were good and reasonable too. Cool little atmosphere.
(4)LL M.
Cool place. Happy hour 7 days a week from 5-7. I will definitely be back. Great music. Some of the videos are a bit raunchy. It's really dark when you walk in during the daytime but your eyes adjust after a couple minutes.
(4)Richard B.
This lounge is chill ive had some good times with it. People r strange.. but thats probably cause theyre gay. Hahah Bar beer selection is limited. But i would go here for the $1 pbr nites.
(3)Barry J.
Love happy hour at Stir; especially on Friday! Friendliest staff and clientele in the city. Always an interesting music and video selection playing. Drinks are nicely mixed too!!
(5)Natasha S.
This great little bar was located literally right around the corner from the hotel that we stayed in. We started off here just for a few drinks. Immediately walking in, you see the round seated bar and a quiet room in the back which we didn't explore. We sat down and were promptly greeted by the bartender. The bartender was super nice and welcoming. There are 2 flat screen televisions, one on each side featuring contemporary music videos. Between the 4 of us, we ordered a house special cocktail, vodka and cranberry, gin and tonic and a beer. The cocktails were no joke. They ran about $7-12 but were basically all liquor. They were super strong. This bartender rocked. I wish we had gotten his name, but he was super nice and just really accommodating. That's hard to find in most bars really. They are usually overwhelmed and a pain to get attention from. We stayed for a bit, but only had one cocktail before heading on to our other spots. We made a couple new local friends at the bar and really enjoyed being here. The vibe is nice and the bar is laid back.
(4)Moe W.
Always good - always friendly staff - always clean - always a good experience!
(4)Marianne M.
It's a relief to have a gay bar in Center City away from the Gayborhood. I go on Wednesdays for the a free, friendly poker game. The bartenders Anthony and Amanda are great, friendly, and always know what you want. They do have to put up with a lot of sh*t and despite that are the life of the party. They also just put in a juke box! Party time!
(5)Jason M.
I am in the business and was excited to go out and catch up with an old friend tonight. We had an amazing dinner at Devon and had heard that Stir was a great time. To be honest, it turned out to be nothing of the sort. My friend asked for a rum and diet and the bartender asked her what kind of rum. She said house was fine. While I understand that this is a very common question, if you don't suggest a more expensive liquor, why ask, 'if I'm sure I want that,' when I confirm that the well is ok. Despite the bartender's pompous attitude, I understand everyone has a bad day so I still left him quite a gracious tip for the two drinks he poured. However, the real surprise came when he asked us to quiet down while we were catching up!! He said the ONLY OTHER GUEST there was complaining. This is a bar, with extremely loud music. We were there around 10:30pm. There were no families, or any reason we could see, that we would be told to quiet down in a bar with music blaring. We finished our drinks quickly and left after that. Needless to say I will not be returning to Stir, especially not on a Tuesday night when the bartender yells at us for being to loud and I receive disdain for my guests drink choices. I'll spend my hard earned money somewhere we are welcome!
(1)Steven M.
If you haven't been in to see Will (Tues, Thurs, Sun) you're missing out. Fair on the drinks - unfair on the flirt. ;-)
(5)Erin C.
Neat dive-y gay bar down an alley in Rittenhouse. We went on a Wednesday, so it wasn't crowded and we were served right away. The bartender was super nice and attentive, and the crowd was friendly and chill (and not pretentious, which can be an issue in Rittenhouse) - definite pluses. They have a back room with a dance floor, but nothing was going on there since it was a weeknight. It looks like it'd be great on a weekend, though.
(5)Mike G.
I love stir. Ive been enjoying the chill relaxed friendly and still very adult atmosphere here for years. The bartenders are among the best in the city as far as I am concerned and the owner is like the mayor of friendly town. She always goes out of her way to make everyone feel welcome. Her staff is just as friendly. It's dangerous, because it's one of the more generous pours in town so it's best to stop in on Wednesday's "gentlemen's happy hour" when there's free grilled cheeses passed out to keep one on their stool longer.
(5)Cindy L.
My friend and I wanted to explore the gayborhoods. After an awkward day the night before, we somehow stumbled here. The bartender, Kevin, was awesome! He made us feel completely welcomed. (We are both from Cali and have no idea what goes on around here.) He told us about all the cool places in the area and even gave us a free shot. Nice! Drinks had a decent amount of alcohol, so my friend was very tipsy after one drink. Reasonably priced too. $5 you-call-its. We will definitely wander back here again.
(4)Rebecca S.
A little off-the-beaten-path both for Rittenhouse and for The Gayborhood lies a secret little bar of all things wonderful, it's name is Stir. If you can manage to find it tucked behind the storefronts of Walnut Street and through the back alley of Chancellor you will find a lovely gay bar filled with the strong cocktailed comforts of places like Knock, Woodys, and Tavern but on a far more subdued scale. Sure, the guys are all checking their iPhones feverishly to see who is surfing the Grindr app and sure the bartenders are prettier than even the girliest of girls in the bar, but it is definitely a mixed crowd, not in the least pretentious, and has never managed to feel overcrowded, three qualities hard to find in Rittenhouse. Thursday nights boast a throwback special to the college years with $1 well cocktails from 9-11, worth partaking in once or twice if you want to remind yourself why you now drink top shelf. The music selection was the standard gay bar playlist ranging from old school Whitney and Madge to the Gaga, my only minor complaint was the volume level to patron ratio...too loud to even have a conversation with those within an arms reach. Conveniently located just a hop and a skip from Little Pete's, this is quite possibly the new "closer" in the gay bar hop rotation....check it out, if you can find it.
(4)Theresa M.
I enjoy this place. I remember about a year ago, my sister and I gone to an event and this place was the after party. We took a cab from the event and the cab driver drove us into this seedy looking alley way. We were puzzled and ask the cab driver if this was the place. Of course it was, being new to Philly scene, alley ways are where the hidden gems are. Anyway, we walked in and the place was packed. I thought the bar area was all there was until you walk through to this icebox looking room. It was also where I learned this was one the hot gay spots in the area. Not good for me but great for my sister. I still had a great time and the drinks are reasonable priced. The music is little loud but i enjoy watching some of the music videos playing on the screen as you wait for your drinks. Too bad none of the goodlooking men in this place are interesting in me but I will come here again just hang out with my sister and have a few drinks
(5)Eric J.
If you can brave a swathe of Chancellor Street frequented by the homeless and (worse) Rittenhouse waitstaff , then you should skip over the rats at murky puddles to Stir. Pure Heaven. There's no giggling gaggle of Gays. The drama remains in Hell, where it belongs. The men are a diverse crew and the bartenders are handsome and competent. And the specials makes my cold drunken heart sing. Imagine a very gay troll who found a crack infested cave in Chancellor street. Appalled and itching for a fashionable home, he eats all the maddened crack heads and makes his gay, troll-like grotto. The place is dark and cave-like, yes, but the decor is fun, tasteful and promotes a quiet feel at Stir. And I have never been to a gay bar in Philly where a guy was promoting an event ( poker night) while not using an unctuous, sex-slathered tone that makes him sound lobotomized. This place is highly recommended, if for an alternative to the Gayborhood.
(4)David G.
James Bond may prefer his cocktails shaken, but he's never been to Stir. Stir is such a cool little bar that it might even make a convert out of 007 himself. Located on a dark alleyway off of Rittenhouse Square, Stir is really two bars in one. In front is a darker, more rustic bar with lots of brick and TVs playing entertaining music videos. In back is a light and bright bar, with colorful walls and more of a party vibe. Are you a schizophrenic drinker? Then Stir is the right bar for you. The drinks here are fine, though they don't pack the wallop that they do at Woody's or Tavern on Camac. My gin and soda was mostly soda. But this is Rittenhouse Square, after all -- and everybody is on their best behavior on the west side of Broad St. (Pinkies up!) The crowd mostly consists of locals who are very serious drinkers. Not a whole lot of mingling seems to happen at Stir. On the nights that I visited, Stir was jam-packed with people, yet it was strangely quiet in there. I guess the boys of Stir don't want anybody getting in between them, their cocktails, and their iPhones. While the quiet may be off-putting to some, Stir might be the right place for you if you're looking to catch up with a friend with minimum chaos in the background. I suppose the ambiance just adds to the mystery. (I'm sure 007 would approve.)
(4)Kelvin L.
I was yelping for a place to easily stumble to and from the hotel I was staying and Stir did not disappoint. After a long week of conferencing I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was 2 buck tuesdays. Seeing that twonie tuesdays (canadiana expression) don't exist anymore in the great white north it was a blast. The drinks were fine and got progressively stronger (or at least I thought they did). I mentioned to the bartender Kevin that I think I saw someone mention his name on here before so here is another shout out!
(5)David G.
Was at stir last tonight. Really enjoyed it. No beers on draft and limited drink selection but staff and patrons really friendly enjoyed more than other bars.
(5)Alisdaire Bar F.
We went here and started to like it, it had rather modern interiors and so forth, until some liquored-up queen started barking out to the rest of the bar, lamenting her life story in that maudlin way that is highly annoying. A couple of us queens complained to the bartender that it would be nice if she'd SHADDAP, but noooooh, she was a "regular", so shutting up was not in order. So a bunch of us left. They'd have made a few more dollars if they'd urged that dump to SHADDAP, but whatever. I was secretly hoping the queen would be lying in bed with a screeching hangover the next day, and I bet she was. That's whacha get queen, that's whatcha get.
(3)Barrett L.
Stir is one of my favorite bars in town. This divey lounge on an alley near Rittenhouse Square has good drinks and a friendly, local crowd. Although it is much smaller than most of the other gay bars in town, the owners and bartenders are super nice and know how and when to put you in your place if the time comes. Stir is probably best known for "Stirsday", which is Thursday nights from 9-12 when well drinks and PBR are just a buck. However, starting in September, Stir will be charging a $5 cover on Thursday nights. I was a little upset with their decision to do that, but after coming by last Thursday night and trying to fight my way through the throngs of patrons looking for cheap drinks, this may not be such a terrible idea. It'll be interesting to see if this helps or hurts the bar. Stir also does $2 Tuesdays with $2 wells and PBR. Overall, really like this bar, the atmosphere, and the people. Definitely a core part of the community.
(4)lyndsey F.
I really do love Stir. I love that we have a gay bar on this side of Broad street. I love that you can come here any time of the week, any time of the night and it is still...not that crowded. They make a damn good drink here as well and I love that the plasma always has like E! or the Style network on, because there is nothing that I like better than watching John Travolta's True Hollywood Story while getting a little wastys. Also, this place used to be the ugly stepsister of the gay bars in Philadelphia: The Post. And although I was never in the post as a legal adult, this place was crazy. Things found only in dreams happened at The Post. Sometimes at Stir, you can look around the bar and pick out the odd few people that were probably regulars at The Post...but the majority of the cliente are young and kindasorta yuppie. But if you squint your eyes and think thoughts of life before pink martinis inhabited this space, I can still see the leather and chains coming in and out of the bathroom with no abandon. Ahhh, I love Stir. xo
(4)Caroline L.
Tucked in an alley in Rittenhouse Square, Stir is a gem worth discovering. The place is so small, but seems to be able to accommodate the crowd congregating around one of the two bars. I have never had a bad time at Stir and the crowd has a relatively balanced male/female ratio, compared to other gay bars in the area. The dancefloor is a corner in the back bar area, but has attracted quite a bit of dancing the times I've gone there. I have found it easy to meet people. I went this past Friday on Latin night and had a couple of people trying to teach me to dance. It's embarrassing how uncoordinated I am, but nobody seemed to care.
(4)