R&D Cocktail Bar

“Stopped by randomly on a Thursday, the vibe was great intimate but open, food and drinks were unique & like nothing else in the city. Staff was attentive and welcoming. Definitely coming back regularly :D”

“Popped in to be served by the owner, Aaron, who was all smiles and happy to be behind the bar. He was only working to cover a shift so his team could enjoy a well-deserved day off. The warm, family feel made the drinks taste even better. They have a simple food menu with a perfect impact—everything is done exactly right. We will definitely be local supporters for as long as the building stands!”

“I had my second visit here yesterday, the first being a week ago, which I only did one round (A Last Word with mezcal which was phenomenal, also I am an avid lover of the Last Word cocktail). I did 2 full rounds and a couple of snacks for this visit. The Art of The Choke was my first round, and I must say it was delicious, and refreshing. It stays in the same realm as a daiquiri, whilst keeping itself in line with the winter season. Refreshing, with a pleasant dried fruit note from the rum, and the amaro adding a subtle bitterness, while the nutmeg over the top really amplifies that wintery style the drink is aiming for. My second round was their riff on a Vieux Carré, which is a play on a Manhattan (Another cocktail I love). I must say it is one of my favorite plays on a classic. It's rich, buttery (They wash the vermouth in brown butter), and spirit forward. It just sort of lingers with each sip. I will definitely have it again on a future visit. I can't forget about the food and service. It is a very small food menu, but the options work well enough as is, so if you plan to stay for several rounds but need to load up on food, the nuggets and curly fries are some pleasant options. I got both of those (Buffalo nuggets specifically), and they helped to keep me going. As for service, the staff are phenomenal. The bartenders are fun to chat with, and knowledgeable, as are the rest of the staff. The one thing I cannot praise enough is how good they are at refilling waters. They will make sure you have enough to keep yourself hydrated, and will refill as soon as they see that you're running low, and that is one of my favorite things in any cocktail bar/restaurant. All in all, already one of my favorite bars, alongside Next of Kin and Almanac, and easily among the best in my opinion. I cannot wait to stop by on a future visit and switch up my rounds. For the staff, thank you very much! I had a wonderful time yesterday, and look forward to seeing you again, cheers!”

“Such a cute little spot in Fishtown. The hip retro decor wasn’t trying to hard it juste was genuinely chic in with its mid-century but not tone. The staff were lovely and knowledgeable and helpful with choosing our cocktails while also giving space for us to chat and catch up while sipping our distinct and delicious drinks. We had no food only drinks but I would come back again for more drinks and a nibble.”

“My friends and I heard so many good things about R&D, and it did not dissappoint! Vibes were elegant but casual, drinks were diverse and we enjoyed everything we tried. It's everything you expect from a trendy cocktail bar. Sweet interior, great cocktail menu (whoever designed it-- I love you frfr it's so cute to look at!) and I can imagine this place being perfect for dates, celebration, or friends wanting to enjoy a night bar hopping. Every drink was fun and provided something different for us in both flavor and aesthetic. The service was fantastic and we never had to wait long for another round. We would have stayed longer, but we were there on a night where the kitchen was closed.”