Best Restaurants with a Happy Hour in Center City

It was a great place for a birthday date, this girl was really really impressed

We headed to El Vez for brunch, and let me start by saying: make a reservation. This spot is popular—and for good reason. While dinner reservations can be hard to snag, brunch turned out to be the perfect choice. The moment we walked in, we were transported. The decor is warm, colorful, and vibrant—everything you’d hope for in a great Mexican restaurant. There’s a cozy, welcoming vibe, but it’s also lively and buzzing with energy. The eclectic touches, like the low-rider bike suspended over the dining area, add just the right amount of whimsy without feeling over the top. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to stay and soak it all in. Now, onto the food—because wow. We started with the Macho Nachos, and let me just say, these are nachos done right. Served on a pizza-style pan, every single chip was covered in toppings—no sad, bare nachos at the bottom here. We went with chicken and chorizo for our proteins, and the combination was perfect. The chicken was tender and flavorful, the chorizo added a spicy kick, and everything was brought together with gooey melted cheese, fresh guacamole, and tangy salsa. It’s easily one of the best nacho dishes I’ve ever had. For the main course, we ordered the Steak Burrito and Huevos Rancheros. The burrito was phenomenal—the steak inside was unbelievably tender, and you could taste the care that went into seasoning it just right. Each bite melted in your mouth. The huevos rancheros were just as impressive, with eggs so fresh they practically stole the show. Paired with the perfect mix of beans, tortillas, and salsa, it was hearty and satisfying without being too heavy. We couldn’t resist trying their Blood Orange Margaritas, which were as refreshing as they were delicious. They were perfectly balanced—tangy, sweet, and just strong enough to keep us in that happy brunch mood. The service at El Vez was another highlight. The staff were warm, friendly, and attentive without being overbearing. They made us feel right at home

Great place with fabulous food. A little pricey, but that’s center city. Would definitely go back! Crab cakes and the swordfish were both delicious!!

I had reached out to the General Manager, Mr. Blackmon several weeks in advance to inquire about having a discontinued menu item available for our table. He was very accommodating and when we arrived we were assured that it was prepared for us. I want to thank him for his assistance in making our evening especially special. The service, as always, was very special. Very attentive but not hovering. We never felt rushed and we were left to enjoy the company of everyone at our table. Our table greatly enjoyed several of the appetizers and our menu selections were done perfectly. We had an excellent evening and again, thanks to Mr. Blackmon and his staff!

Good food and good value for a pre-theater dinner. Waiter was knowledgeable and attentive. General commentary for most wait staff these days and a pet peeve of mine- like many others says “are we” when asking “we diners” a question. Not sure who instructed wait staff to say “we” instead of “you” but it’s incorrect. They are not at table with “us.” Endeavoring to Include themselves in the diner’s experience is overly familiar, incorrect and at times condescending. Nonetheless, They work hard. Tip well!