Bok Bar Opens Tonight

The more permanent version of the rooftop bar comes to South Philadelphia.

Instagram photo by

Instagram photo by R. Eric Thomas

A year after the successful Le Bok Fin pop-up at Bok, the rooftop bar is back in a more permanent fashion as Bok Bar.

The outdoor bar on top of the former Edward W. Bok School opens tonight with a menu of Vietnamese and Filipino dishes from chef Ronan Libunao. Look for bánh mí sandwiches, sesame balls and chocolate suman, a Filipino specialty that is made of glutinous coconut rice with chocolate prepared in a banana leaf. All items on the menu are priced under $10.

The food and drink operation is overseen by Stephen Yaeger, a hospitality veteran with experience at Starr Restaurant Group and Baby Blues BBQ. The bar will offer 12 types of beers ($5 to $6) and 9 wines ($7.50 to $9 and $38 to $45 for a bottle).

In addition to the great skyline views and vibes, patrons of Bok Bar will also be able to check out MAARKet on Bok’s first floor. The store includes independent Philadelphia labels including Bok tenant Lobo Mau. In addition to featuring a tenant from Bok, 75% of Bok Bar staff will come from the immediate area.

On Wednesday and Thursday evenings as well as Saturday afternoons Vacant America, the art installation by Klip Collective will be open in the east gym.

Bok Bar Food Menu

Sesame ball $3

Scallion pancake $5

Beef satay $5

Pork sisig $5

Tofu Bánh mì $7.50

Pork Bánh mì $7.50

Chocolate suman $5.50

Turon (aka x2 banana fritters) $4.50

Bok Bar is open Tuesday through Sunday weather permitting:

  • Tuesday 6pm – 11pm
  • Wednesday 6pm – 11pm
  • Thursday 6pm – 1am
  • Friday 6pm – 2am
  • Saturday 12pm – 12am
  • Sunday 12pm – 11pm

On Sundays from noon to 6pm, children accompanied by parents or guardians are welcomed to join in what is otherwise a 21-and-over space.

Bok Bar [Foobooz]