Top Spots For Salsa Dancing In Philadelphia
We may not be in Latin America, but that doesn't mean Philadelphia isn't full of great places to try your hand at salsa dancing. It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned professional or absolute beginner – you're sure to fit right in at one of these bars listed below.
7165 Lounge
7165 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19119
(215) 247-0186
www.7165lounge.com
The 7165 Lounge hosts a salsa dance party every Thursday night from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Perfect for beginners or skilled salsa dancers alike, this event is hosted by Papo and the admission is free. And, if you print the event page and bring it with you, you'll get a free art print. Make a reservation before the event starts to enjoy some fine American-Italian food like baked tilapia and easy honey glazed chicken.
Brasil's Nightclub
112 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 413-1700
www.brasilsnightclub
Newly renovated Brasil's Nightclub in Old City offers intermediate salsa lessons every Wednesday and beginner lessons on Friday and Saturday starting at 9:30 p.m. The lessons are hosted by the best dance instructors from local studios like Estilo Dance Studio and La Luna Dance Studio and drink specials run throughout the night ($3 Coronas and shots). Brasil's also offers group and private lessons, if you'd rather more personal instruction. Stick around after your lesson for a night of dancing to Latin tunes by DJ Jay Rockwell. Brasil's Nightclub also hosts a "First Thursday" featuring Calle Luna and Estilo dancers, salsa lessons and drink specials.
Cuba Libre
10 S 2nd St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 627-0666
www.cubalibrerestaurant.com
Cuba Libre is a popular spot in Old City for salsa dancing every Friday and Saturday night and boy, is it fun! Professional salsa dancers perform floorshows in the dining room after dinner hours and the club lights up with Cuban percussionists, singers and dancing. The floor is jam-packed with enthusiastic dancers moving to Latin rhythms (salsa, merengue, tropical dance, etc.) played by great DJs. Cuba Libre isn't just about the dancing and nightlife, however. Its popular cocktails and authentic Cuban food will make you feel like you're dining some place much warmer than Philly.
Reef Restaurant Lounge
605 S. 3rd St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 629-0102
www.phillyreef.com
Head to 3rd and South every Tuesday for Latin Night at Reef Restaurant and Lounge. Hosted by Joe Figueroa, an intermediate salsa lesson is provided from 9 p.m to 10 p.m. and all night dancing (well, until 1 a.m.) follows. Reef also offers a three-course meal deal (wine, dine and dance) and a discount at the nearby EZ Park is available. Another Latin Dance, Bachata, is taught from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the cost of $12 (it includes the salsa lesson and dancing until 1 a.m.).
Vango Lounge & Skybar
116 S. 18th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 568-1020
www.vangoloungeandskybar.com
If you're in the Rittenhouse area, Vango Lounge & Skybar is your best bet for a fun night of salsa dancing. Located on top of the hookah bar Byblos, Vango has a happening rooftop bar. But if you want to dance to some Latin rhythms, head to the main floor every Monday night. Free salsa lessons begin at 8:30 p.m. and your newfound skills can be used until 2 a.m. If you need a fresh-air break or seek a different kind of music, head up to the rooftop.
Related: Top Dance Studios In Philadelphia
Kelly Neilson is a freelance writer living and working in Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
