Vinyl Philadelphia opens in Center City with live music, dueling pianos and more

Live music, a curated cocktail program and a swanky yet eclectic atmosphere is what you get at the city’s latest night-time go-to, Vinyl.

Located in Center City (15th Street between Locust and Walnut streets) the new 5,000 square-foot venue comes from Rob Wasserman and  Josh Zwirzina.

The former has made a name for himself in Philly with some other hotspots like Rogue, Twenty Manning and Charley Dove, while the latter is known as an entertainment industry vet who has produced concerts at the city’s largest entertainment venues – The Filmore, Franklin Music Hall, Union Transfer and more.

What Vinyl is meant to be outside of a bar and restaurant, however, is also a nightlife experience with entertainment in a prime location.

“Vinyl is the culmination of Josh and my collective passions for music, food and drink, and exceptional hospitality,” says co-owner Wasserman, in a statement. “We can’t wait to introduce Philadelphia and beyond to our world-class stage with an electrifying line-up of musical talents in a space that is welcoming and accessible to all.”

As a release states, behind daily operations at this new venue will be General Manager Talia Tomarchio, bringing extensive expertise working in renowned nightlife destinations like Miami and Las Vegas to create Philadelphia’s best VIP experience. And there will be plenty to experience four nights a week with dueling pianos, local and headliner DJs, modern rock, country and more slated on the docket. 

The space comes from creative Director Maggie Huth who worked with Otto Architects to complete a look that not only matched the old charm of the city of Brotherly Love, but also offered a way to add some other local flavor into the mix from  local artist, David Guinn.

The result offers up an escape from the city life—literally as you walk in the doors daylight is gone—and what overtakes are bold lighting choices mixed in with dark swanky furniture, lounge areas, neon lights, and a massive bar.

Speaking of drinks, the establishment is offering a slew of curated options from Beverage Director Ross Binder, including craft cocktails. Highlights include the Tunnel Vision, which is a creative spin on a gin and tonic with cucumber and lemongrass infused whitley neill gin, honeydew melon, lime and fever-tree cucumber tonic. There’s also the Disco Inferno, a sweet way to enjoy whiskey with Maker’s Mark bourbon, strawberry, aleppo cinnamon, pineapple, lemon and fever-tree club soda.

Otherwise, Vinyl’s bar will be serving up  bottle service for VIP lounge seating, a selection of wines, local beers, and more. And food-wise, Vinyl is also looking to combine indulgent choices with different options.

Menu stand-out items include goat cheese stuffed dates (a decadent option for only $6), tuna tartar tacos, an assortment of flatbreads (try the cacio y pepe), baked potato pierogies, a cheese spread and some caviar, of course.

“Vinyl is about to introduce a new way to enjoy live music in Philadelphia,” finishes co-owner Zwirzina. “Located in the heart of Center City, our goal for Vinyl is to become a go-to live entertainment destination for Philadelphians and visitors alike with musical tastes at all levels.”

Vinyl is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to midnight and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Happy hour is offered Wednesday through Saturday 5 to 7 p.m., with a dedicated happy hour menu being introduced this month.

For more information, including a full line-up of upcoming events, visit vinylphilly.com or follow on Instagram @vinylphilly