The Real Cosmos of Philadelphia
Written by: Lydia Lepping
Photography by: Tara Watson
She’s feminine, flirty, fun, and ALWAYS leads to a good time. She's ready to celebrate any occasion and is absolutely tickled pink. Just one sip of her is the perfect reminder of how wonderful it is to be a woman.
If you know her, you love her (and I’d be shocked if you didn’t). And if you don’t, you’re about to. She’s a perfectly crafted cosmopolitan ready to make the perfect day even better. Her pink color, feminine martini glass shape, and perfect balance of sweetness and bite is the ideal way to start a night of dancing. Philadelphia has quite a selection to offer.
In case you’re unsure or forgot, a classic cosmopolitan comprises 1 ½ ounce of vodka, 1 ounce of cranberry juice, ½ of an ounce of Cointreau, and ½ an ounce of lime juice. It’s oh so simple, yet not everyone gets it right. And I know what is right! But I have found the gems in the city who do it right; the ones who are strong, have a deliciously limey tang, and are just a little bit sweet!
Little Miss Unconventional
Louie Louie
3611 Walnut Street
$14
I entered Louie Louie prepared to order a classic Cosmo. The smooth-talking bartender, however, quickly convinced me to try their Instagram-famous white cosmopolitan. Oh. My. God. I wish I could order this drink everywhere. Each sip is an absolute dream, a sweet, yet tangy cocktail that doesn’t skip on flavor. And sure, she’s unconventional, but she’s the new girl in town and she’s here to make her mark for sure. Here are the ingredients from the menu: citrus vodka, combier (a liqueur similar to triple sec), lemon, lime, agave, white cranberry, and sparkling wine. I can only say about this cocktail: RUN to Louie Louie immediately and grab a glass!
Little Miss Sweet Tooth
Harper’s Garden
31 S 18th Street
$13
There is a lovely ambiance for a pleasant drink in a perfect coupe glass. Now that my flattery is out of the way; this drink is delicious but fulfills almost none of my requirements. She’s not tart, and she’s not as boozy as her sisters. However, she is sweet, the perfect color, and has a lovely bit of foam on top. Though she isn’t my ideal cosmo, she is a delightful drink for someone looking for a sweeter option.
Little Miss Classic
The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia: Lobby Bar
10 Ave Of The Arts
$16
Oh Ritzy! Is the nickname alright? Okay, great! Oh Ritzy, the most fun of conversations have occurred at your bar. I have tried so many amazing cocktails made by the excellent bartenders at the Ritz-Carlton, and I keep crawling back to their cosmopolitan. It is divine. This cosmo has the perfect touch of sweetness is just a bit more tang than what I am used to, but something about the extra lime was much welcomed addition. This perfect, yet dangerous mixture hides the alcohol a little too well.
Little Miss Perfect
PARC
227 S 18th St
$17.50
If you’re going to taste just one cosmo in Philly, it’s the one at PARC. The definition of the perfect cosmo. Sure, she’s strong, but that’s how wants to be, that’s how she NEEDS to be! PARC has never disappointed me, and this beautiful drink is no exception. Freshly shaken and just about as cold as ice, this cosmo is the drink of my dreams.
Before I officially leave you to explore my (correct) opinions, I must warn you. Never EVER let her flirty color and beautiful glass fool you. She is sneaky, so proceed with caution and know your limits, or you’ll be spending the following day in bed with a liquid IV or two in hand.