Sunday Scaries Survival Guide
Where to go when you want to be social but not commit to a full “night out”
Sunday scaries don’t always look like panic. Sometimes they look like staring at your phone at 6:14 PM, knowing you don’t want to stay in, but absolutely do not want to go out either. You want people, maybe a drink. You want to feel like the weekend didn’t just vanish. You also want to be home at a reasonable hour, preferably with minimal regret.
That’s the sweet spot.
This is your guide to going somewhere without turning it into a thing. Just enough social interaction to reset your brain before Monday hits.
The Early Evening Bar That Understands You
The Dandelion — Rittenhouse
If you want something slightly elevated but still comforting, this is the move. Great for a quiet drink that feels intentional, especially when you want the week to end on a softer note.
The Food-As-Comfort Move
Via Solar Myth’s Instagram
Cantina los Caballitos — East Passyunk
Before it gets lively, this is a great place to share a few small plates and quietly reset before the week.
The One-Drink Rule (That’s Allowed to Break)
Solar Myth Bar — South Philly
Funky and creative without being overwhelming. A great place to sip slowly and feel like you went somewhere interesting.
The “We Can Actually Talk” Spot
Lucky’s Last Chance — Queen Village
Neighborhood bar done right. Find a friendly crowd with relaxed pacing and an environment that feels social without all the crazy.
Why These Work for Sunday Scaries
These spots aren’t trying to turn your Sunday into a scene and that’s the real Sunday win.
You went out.
You didn’t overdo it.
You’re still going to sleep fine. Kudos!
To keep the Anti Sunday scaries momentum going, it helps to have a few go-to spots you can rely on all winter. Not just for Sundays, but for those lower effort nights when you still want to be around people. If you’re looking for bars that feel comfortable and conversational, check out our Third Place Bar List.
