When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Cellar Dog
Why Cellar Dog is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cellar Dog is a popular bar and live music venue located in the heart of Philadelphia at 15th and Spruce Street. This venue shines as a great meeting spot for friends due to its inviting atmosphere, spacious layout, and variety of entertainment options. At the center of Cellar Dog is a massive circular bar, known for expertly crafted cocktails such as the well-made Old Fashioned, creating a perfect social hub where groups can gather comfortably. The ambiance is enhanced by moody lighting and a cozy setting that encourages conversation and relaxation. Live jazz music is featured nightly, offering culturally rich entertainment that keeps the energy lively throughout the week. For those who enjoy games, the venue provides pool tables available for hourly play, as well as arcade games and other casual amusements, giving guests multiple ways to engage and connect. The menu includes tasty bar snacks like a basket of wings that pair well with a diverse and extensive beer list. The venue's layout facilitates various social experiences—whether it’s sitting near the stage for a show, hanging out in a corner with friends, or playing pool at the back of the bar. With late-night hours extending until 2 AM, Cellar Dog offers a perfect place for weekend hangouts, casual evenings, and live entertainment, making it a versatile destination for different types of social gatherings.
Here's what people think of Cellar Dog
As of recent, Cellar Dog holds a 4.3-star rating based on 609 reviews.
User reviews of Cellar Dog collectively paint a picture of an engaging and enjoyable venue, reflected in its strong rating of 4.3 from over 600 reviews. Patrons often highlight the unique, dive-bar charm combined with a welcoming and spacious interior that doesn't feel overcrowded, even on busy nights. Many reviews appreciate the variety of games available, such as pool, ping pong, and shuffleboard, which add interactive fun beyond just drinks and music. The live music, especially jazz, receives notable praise for enhancing the ambiance and offering a quality cultural experience, with some noting the reasonable $5 cover as a fair price for the entertainment. Positive reviews also commend the wide beer selection and well-made cocktails that cater to diverse tastes, as well as the friendly and attentive staff contributing to a relaxed, enjoyable evening. On the downside, some reviewers mention the occasional cover charge as a minor drawback and consider that the menu is more focused on bar snacks rather than full meals, which might limit options for those looking for a complete dining experience. A few comments suggest that the venue can get lively and noisy, which may not suit visitors seeking a quiet night. Overall, the reviews reflect a broadly favorable impression, emphasizing Cellar Dog's strengths in ambiance, entertainment variety, and social atmosphere, making it a recommended destination for groups and casual patrons alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christian Sroka
Wow what a crazy amalgamation of things in one space. The jazz was fantastic, and the beer list equally so. And if you want to play pool or ping pong while listening to said awesome jazz, this is the one place you can do that.
Lucero Molina Cervetto
super fun place to hang out with friends. they have lots of board games as well as billiards, ping pong, and shuffle board. if you go on the weekend, expect long wait times for these games- better to go during the week days. they also have a great live jazz band playing. overall very enjoyable place with lots of entertainment! highly recommend.
Anya Tkachuk
Me and my boyfriend both loved this place! It’s so much fun with all different zones and games. We listened to jazz, very much enjoyed it even though it was a little noisy with all the people playing games behind it was still a cool experience (just consider it if you want something more quiet and relaxing it’s a lot of young crowds). Also be ready that line for the pool is long (it was 2 hours so we decided not to do it today even though wanted it), played ping pong instead. It was a little too cold for me so also be prepared w a jacket. Prices are great 🩷
Natalie Neshama
(i know the owner is gonna get big mad and bully me in the replies for this one lol) my two friends and i came here after getting dinner just to listen to jazz and vibe. i guess this place is close to where a lot of NYU students are because the bouncer thought that my and my one friend’s IDs were fake. he started doing that thing that bouncers do where they ask you what’s on your ID to see if you’ll screw it up. he wasn’t very nice about it, it’s like bro was itching and scratching to not let us in. dude absolutely destroyed the mood. unfortunately, the bouncer’s tone started making my friend really nervous. he hadn’t ever had his ID questioned before and he hadn’t yet updated it (he had just moved), so when asked for his address, he didn’t give the one that was on the license. the bouncer said it was wrong, then kept rolling his eyes, laughing at him, and began repeating “don’t be scared, don’t be scared” to my friend who was... clearly scared. he then asked my friend for a secondary form of identification which, like... what? the only thing he had on him was his old student ID, which expired like two years ago lol. this finally got the bouncer off of him, thankfully. post-lambasting my friend, the bouncer started asking me the same questions, but my ID is up to date so i answered all of his questions without a hitch. he rolled his eyes and then asked me for another ID, as well. maybe i’m the odd one out here, but who carries a secondary form of ID on them? i also have an enhanced license, which i’m pretty sure is a federal crime to fake, as it is basically a passport. i ended up just showing him my driver’s insurance card, that’s the closest thing i had. at that point, he FINALLY let us in. after all that struggle, the place kinda... sucked. was not even worth the $5 cover. the bartender was rude and the bar barely had any alcohol (at 10 PM on a thursday night with a bunch of college students inside?). it was dark and dingy and NOT in a quirky way. i don’t need a place to be fancy or anything, this was just gross. another friend and i got their “pride” drink which was just pineapple juice and soju. that’s it. the drink was not mixed well, to say the least. the only good part of this place was that they had a phenomenal jazz band playing... but with all the hassling, next time i will go anywhere else. new york city has so much more to offer — skip this one.
Andrew Kushnirov
Bouncer high as a kite. Best description is “crowded basement of mouth-breathers”. Charged entry fee because of live jazz music, yet they drowned it out by also blasting different music from speakers. As a result, loud so everyone screaming over each other. Go to Game Room for quarters. Long line for ping pong, good luck.
How to reach Cellar Dog
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Why Cellar Dog may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cellar Dog with your friends?
If you're wondering where to gather for a memorable night out with your friends or family, Cellar Dog is the ideal choice. This venue offers a dynamic atmosphere that brings people together through a perfect fusion of great food, exciting games, and live music. Its welcoming yet lively ambiance draws crowds who want to unwind and enjoy quality time in a spacious setting. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up with friends, Cellar Dog offers a uniquely vibrant backdrop for social connection. The long circular bar, moody lighting, and ample seating options provide comfortable spaces for groups of all sizes. Unlike many typical bars or restaurants, Cellar Dog combines the casual conviviality of a game hall with the sophistication of a live jazz venue—delivering something for everyone. Above all, the venue’s Philly-inspired menu and broad drink selection, complemented by engaging entertainment options, create a seamless blend of relaxation and fun. It’s a place designed specifically for shared experiences, making it exceptional for group meetups where every moment becomes a memory.
What activities does Cellar Dog offer for group meetups?
Cellar Dog hosts an impressive array of activities perfectly suited for groups looking to engage, compete, or simply hang out together. A major highlight is the live music, predominantly jazz, which plays nightly. Enjoying a jazz set while sitting at comfortable pew seating near the stage allows guests to immerse themselves in high-quality performances without needing to leave their friends behind. For those who enjoy games, the venue boasts several options: pool tables occupy the back area, available for hourly rental, offering a casual but competitive environment. Beyond pool, guests can engage with classic arcade games or even ping pong and shuffleboard in some locations tied to the Cellar Dog brand, making it a hub for playful entertainment. These activities encourage friendly competition and lively interaction, perfect for breaking the ice or deepening friendships. Moreover, the spacious layout means that groups have plenty of room to move, talk, and mingle without feeling crowded. This balance of music, games, and social space makes Cellar Dog exceptionally versatile for gatherings of all types.
Why is Cellar Dog’s food and drink menu ideal for groups?
Cellar Dog understands that good food and drinks are central to any great meetup, so it offers a menu designed specifically for sharing and socializing. The no-fuss, Philly-inspired bar food features crowd-pleasers such as pub-style wings, a signature “Cellar Dog” sandwich, Smash Burgers, Hot Italian sandwiches, and Short Rib Sloppy Joes. Of course, no Philadelphia-themed menu would be complete without serving a classic Philly Cheesesteak, ensuring everyone finds something familiar and satisfying. These dishes are perfect for sharing—order several and everyone can sample a bit of everything, fostering a communal dining experience. On the drinks side, Cellar Dog features an extensive selection of local and domestic beers on tap, approachable wines, and a full bar serving cocktails and mixed drinks. This diverse selection caters to varying tastes within groups, from casual beer lovers to cocktail enthusiasts. The thoughtful pairing of drinks and shareable plates encourages a relaxed, convivial dining experience where friends can focus on good company rather than complicated orders, enhancing the overall social atmosphere.
How does Cellar Dog’s atmosphere enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Cellar Dog is integral to why it stands out as a group destination. The lighting is deliberately moody and warm, creating a cozy yet exhilarating environment that promotes intimacy without sacrificing the energy of a bustling venue. The massive circular bar acts as a natural gathering point, encouraging mingling and conversation across groups. Furthermore, the venue’s spaciousness means you won’t feel cramped or rushed. The diverse seating options—from casual corner spots for quiet chats to pew-style seats right by the jazz stage—offer flexibility depending on the vibe your group prefers. This thoughtful design makes it easy for groups to find their own groove, whether that's cheering at a game, savoring a dish, or simply soaking up the music. The down-to-earth yet stylish ambiance also makes it accessible to a wide range of guests, from casual drinkers to music aficionados. With its eclectic mix of elements and inclusive vibe, Cellar Dog facilitates natural and enjoyable group interactions that can last late into the night.
What makes Cellar Dog’s location and layout suitable for meetups?
Located at 258 S. 15th Street in Philadelphia, Cellar Dog benefits from a prime urban location easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to major city arteries means your group can convene without fuss, whether by public transport or car. The venue’s 8,000-square-foot interior provides ample space for groups of all sizes, enabling plenty of room to play, eat, and socialize simultaneously. This spacious layout is a rare find in city bars where crowding often dampens the social experience. Inside, the venue is thoughtfully segmented to accommodate different activities without interference—pool tables are tucked in their own area while the live music stage commands its own atmosphere without overwhelming the dining or gaming spaces. This zoning helps keep the noise level balanced, so groups can choose the environment best suited to their mood at any given time. Additionally, the layout allows multiple groups to coexist comfortably, making Cellar Dog an ideal place for large gatherings or multiple parties meeting simultaneously without feeling overcrowded.
How accessible and inclusive is Cellar Dog for diverse groups?
Cellar Dog prides itself on being an inclusive and accessible spot for all kinds of friends and families. The welcoming staff foster a warm environment that makes every guest feel comfortable and valued. Physical accessibility is well considered, ensuring that the venue is approachable for guests with mobility challenges, including wide entrances and spacious pathways around tables and gaming areas. The variety of games and musical performances means there’s something for everyone—whether your group prefers a quiet drink over jazz or lively competition over pool or arcade games. Drinks and food menus offer a range of options for different dietary preferences and tastes, from classic bar snacks to indulgent desserts like Fried Twinkies and nostalgic Root Beer Floats. For group organizers, Cellar Dog can accommodate flexible party sizes, making it a versatile choice regardless of your gathering's scale or composition. This focus on inclusiveness enhances the overall experience, ensuring that every meet-up at Cellar Dog is enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable.
Why is Cellar Dog a standout compared to other Philadelphia venues?
Cellar Dog distinguishes itself in Philadelphia’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene through its unique blend of offerings that few other venues combine so effectively. The connection of live jazz music, games, and quality food under one roof creates a diversified experience that works equally well as a casual drinking spot or a lively entertainment hub. Unlike conventional bars that focus primarily on drinks or restaurants that concentrate on food, Cellar Dog brings both together with additional activities to spice up any gathering. Its thoughtful design and programming encourage social interactions—whether your friends want to challenge each other over pool, enjoy live music, or share an appetizer platter while chatting. Ratings averaging a solid 4.3 out of 5 from over 600 reviews testify to the consistent positive experiences guests have at Cellar Dog. Its reputation as an energetic yet approachable spot makes it an increasingly popular meeting place, especially among those looking for more than just a drink or a meal but a fully realized night out that embraces multiple pleasures in one destination.
What should you know before visiting Cellar Dog with your group?
Before heading to Cellar Dog, it’s helpful to know a few insider tips to maximize your group’s experience. Some live music nights may have a modest cover charge, usually around $5, but this small price unlocks access to great shows almost every night of the week. Booking pool tables costs about eight dollars per hour, so planning ahead for game time can help keep the evening flowing smoothly. Cellar Dog opens in the late afternoon and stays open well into the night, offering plenty of time to arrive and enjoy several hours in comfortable, engaging surroundings. If you’re planning on a larger party, calling ahead might secure seating arrangements or clarify options for shared platters and group-friendly service. The menu’s shareable dishes are designed to be ordered family-style, so it’s wise to choose a variety for your table. Finally, dressing casually yet stylishly fits perfectly with Cellar Dog’s welcoming vibe—nothing too formal, but definitely a place to feel and look good while having fun.
Cellar Dog is more than just a bar: it is a lively sanctuary where friends and family can connect, compete, and celebrate. Whether you seek a relaxed venue to enjoy jazz and good drinks, a playground for games, or a place to savor Philly-inspired eats with your favorite people, Cellar Dog offers an all-encompassing experience that delivers every time. With a thoughtful layout, inclusive atmosphere, and a spectrum of engaging activities, it remains a top choice for anyone looking to rally with their group in Philadelphia’s vibrant social scene.