7 Philly Bars & Restaurants Where You Can Celebrate a Non-Traditional or ‘Anti’ Valentine’s Day

On Valentine’s Day, many restaurants and bars are offering prix fixe dinners and lovely events for couples to enjoy on this day of romance. Not feeling it? We understand. For those seeking an “Anti-Valentine’s Day” in Philadelphia, check out these events which are entirely outside of the heart-shaped box:

Love is Sour, Love is Bitter, Love Stinks at Martha

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Martha is helping those without Valentines to enjoy the day just as much — heck, if not more — than those with significant others. At the Anti-Valentine’s Day gathering at this cozy, hip bar, there will be plenty of camaraderie to go around, plus a few anti-love specials, including Love is Sour, a local sour beer flight, Love is Bitter, an amaro flight, and Love Stinks, a welcome selection of funky cheeses. Bonus: Songs of love and regret on the stereo and free bear hugs for all! 2113 E. York St., Philadelphia; (215) 867-8881

Tavern on Broad Valentine’s Paint Night

Eager to give Cupid the thumbs down on Valentine’s Day? Don’t worry, because Tavern on Broad will keep you entertained this Valentine’s Day with its Valentine’s Paint night from 5–9 p.m. For $10 per person, you’ll receive a wine glass to paint and personalize, chocolate treats and exclusive $5 themed cocktails. Plus, a live acoustic band will keep your painting momentum going! Tickets are available online. 200 S. Broad St., Philadelphia; (215) 546-2290

Terrible Pick-Up Line Party at Evil Genius Beer Co.

Single this Valentine’s Day? Don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone! Evil Genius Beer Company is providing singles with the opportunity to meet their match on Valentine’s Day at the Terrible Pick-Up Line Party from 6–10 p.m. The Evil Genius team will provide guests with the cringe-worthy pick-up lines, which are sure to make for a few good laughs and conversation starters, and then it’s up to you to keep the conversation flowing. 1727 Front St., Philadelphia;(215) 425-6820

Anti-Valentine’s Day Party at Taproom on 19th

Taproom on 19th is turning Cupid away at the door during its Anti-Valentine’s Day celebration, which will go all day long and into the early morning hours of February 15. During this time, guests can order food and drink specials with an anti-Valentine’s Day theme, including the Crabby Patty, a crab cake sandwich with lettuce, tomato, onion and house-made tartar sauce; Burnin’ Heart Burger, a Meyer Natural brisket grind with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion and house-made Reaper BBQ sauce; Broken Heart Negroni, created with Bols Genever gin, Campari, Carpano Antica and orange zest (and you can keep the special commemorative glass!); and $5 off all “single” malts (get it?). 2400 S. 19th St., Philadelphia; (267) 687-7817

Cheap Date at North Bowl This Valentine’s Day

Looking for a fun and inexpensive way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your friends or crush? Don’t miss a cheap date opportunity at North Bowl from 10 p.m. on Wednesday, February 14, until 2 a.m. on Thursday, February 15. North Bowl is offering $2 bowling and $2 beer, plus cheap Valentine’s-inspired food and drink deals and entertainment by DJ Grandpa Jeremy. It’s free to enter the event, but food, drinks and bowling are on a pay-as-you-go basis. Must be 21+. 909 N. 2nd St., Philadelphia; (215) 238-BOWL

No Touch Valentine’s Day at SOMO

SOMO in Manayunk is offering a unique twist on Valentine’s Day dining. For couples who refrain from pulling out their smartphones during dinner, SOMO will reward them by offering a $45 per person three-course prix fixe dinner paired with wines from ONEHOPE Winery. However, for those who take out their phones during dinner, the price jumps to $50 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

“At a time when we find it hard to disconnect — even for a moment, from our electronic devices — we felt that allowing our guests an opportunity on this special day to give their full, undivided attention to their significant other without being distracted by texts, calls and social media notifications, would be wonderful,” explained SOMO’s James Morrissey. “Imagine that, two people just talking to each other during an entire romantic dinner, and then being rewarded for that by receiving $5 off the bill!”

The special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu can be viewed online. SOMO’s regular menu will also be available that evening, along with music provided by acoustic guitarist Jamie Salvatore. Reservations are recommended. 4311 Main St., Manayunk; (267) 297-6668

Bonus for Feb. 15th:

Saint Benjamin Brewing Co.’s ‘All You Need Is Love and a Coat’ Fundraiser

On Thursday, February 15, from 7–11 p.m., spread the love by donating clothing items and other necessities to Saint Benjamin Brewing Company so that its team may fill backpacks to hand out to homeless individuals in the local area. Socks, gloves, hoodies, scarves, coats and more are all needed to fill these backpacks. As a thank you, Saint Ben’s is offering $1 off beer all night long when you donate items. Tunes will be spinning throughout the night, courtesy of DJ Steve J. 1710 N. 5th St., Philadelphia; (215) 232-4305

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