Dear reader, We recently went to a wedding at The Union League in Philly, and the whole experience was extraordinary. The building is huge, elegant, and so striking to be inside, with a grand historic feel and remarkable detail at every turn. What truly stood out, though, was the artwork. There were beautiful, old, and impressive pieces everywhere, including portraits by Sully and Marchant, which made the entire place feel part museum, part event venue, and wholly unforgettable. It is such a unique setting for a wedding and easily one of the most stunning venues I have visited in years. read more

Wowza, inside was amazing. There was a wedding happening in there. I was there for a reception. The paintings and stained glass window. I was there for a work reception in the evening. Appetizers were decent. Mostly paintings of former Presidents, WWI, and more. Stained glass window on the staircase reminded me of my trip to Italy. read more

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Did you not think strictly enforced fancy and formal still existed? It does at the Union League in Philadelphia. It's a break from what has become the informal ordinary! I am not a member but I have a colleague who is. Victorian in style, this spot is elegant and traditional! It demands and deserves respect! It's been voted the #1 City Club in the Country for the 6th consecutive year. Unions leagues were formed in the 1860s during the Lincoln Administration to support and preserve Union interests. There are two restaurants I've visited. One is Cafe Meredith which sits just inside the entrance. It's timeless and classic! Almost like where the important discussions happen. The second and rooftop, is Trumbauer's, modern with an open kitchen. Almost like where the night caps are drank and less serious discussions happen! Anytime I'm invited, I always enjoy my discussions, cocktails and fantastic eats at The Union League! read more

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This is a members only country club. We did the lobster night event. Pretty good event. They put us in a big ballroom and there was a buffet style amount of seafood. I loved the lobsters and all the seafood there. The seafood was very fresh and free flowing. The desserts were pretty epic (one of the food network pastry chef competition members currently works at the Union League). The Italian rainbow cake was definitely the best dessert there. We checked out the other rooms. They have a hall of presidents, a gym, cigar room (where you can bring your own cigars to smoke), and a library room. It is really historical and the building has a cool old vibe attached to it. read more

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Lovely building with rich history. I didn't go inside but I did admire the architecture from outside. read more

The Union League - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Excellent service and great food! Great place for dinner with colleagues! The short rib was spectacular. read more

The Union League - View from the patio - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Obviously you are either a member or a member brings you there. We stayed one night there as we were attending a function. The room was clean and classic. The bed was comfortable and there was no road noise from below. Since it is such an old building you would expect things to be in disrepair but that was not the case. Service desk was also fast and efficient as well as courteous. Personally I loved the old building with all of the marble, wood and character. read more

The Union League - Drinks and the game. - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

It is an historic private club that has exceptional history and facilities. It was organized during the Lincoln Years to support his views of preserving the Union and Constitution. Given this background it supports and has many philanthropic interests, not necessarily politically oriented. Over the years it has grown and is a very respected institution and club. read more

An amazing and enlightening experience! When you stand outside and glare at the imposing building that is the Union League of Philadelphia you think of all of the stories that this building could tell. The history it can tell, indeed! My tour experience was at the invitation of the Friends of Avenue of the Arts. This is always an interesting and committed group to the arts and Philadelphia. This building is filled with beautiful historic artifacts, forever-changing exhibits and ongoing maintenance. The curator(s) must never rest! Today was a great day to tour the Union League of Philadelphia as many of the rooms and pieces of art will be removed after today for repair etc. As the lone Black person in this group taking the tour I was intrigued by the information regarding the "Colored Troops". The most AMAZING item for me was one of the few original copies of The Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Can you believe such an historic document lives right here in Philadelphia!?! Actually I can....How awesome is that? Thanks to our guide who's name escapes me. I apologize but you were great! read more

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We happened here for the Civil War Museum on their first floor. You are buzzed into a large open hall...by yourself. Surrounding rooms stately, grand, historic and dimly lit. The bright light to the left is the opening of the Civil War Exhibit. Within minutes we were greeted by the Program Coordinator for the Union League Legacy Foundation Ms. Baldridge with an overview of the League, its foundation and the Civil War Exhibition. Moving through the displays we found comprehensive documentation, exhibition of tools, swords and rifles of the Lincoln era, freeing of the slaves, and his tragic death. Clearly, a club of Lincoln. Smallest but entertainingly educational and all free! Limited afternoon openings definitely check ahead for times. read more

Do union league is located downtown Philadelphia and is quite an impressive building and atmosphere The theme is all around the union army and the location is adorned with pictures of generals horses and military type imagery from that era It is really a special place that is members only We've had a chance to enjoy it several times now most recently for breakfast It's a high-end experience with well-trained staff well trained chefs and an overall ambience that you would expect Check the dress code! read more

The Union League - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

An icon of the oligarchy which rules over you Think I'm kidding? Even USA of O's Indoctronitional Ivy League's second most prestigious institution along with an uber-elite private university released a study in 2014 verifying that fact. No one noticed. https://www.businessinsider.com/major-study-finds-that-the-us-is-an-oligarchy-2014-4 read more

The Union League - Union League of Philadelphia Broad St Classic French Renaissance-styled building, - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Historic landmark, fine restaurant. Fine dining in a beautiful atmosphere. Superior service. read more

The Union League of Philadelphia just can't be beat. It has consistently been ranked as the very best city club in the USA year after year for many years. I have the privilege of eating, drinking, working out, relaxing and sleeping at the members-only club daily whenever I am in the area. I hope to be here even more in the future. The multiple restaurants never fail to deliver the very best quality and tasty food. The other amenities of the club are excellent, including the fitness center and hot tub/sauna. The rooms in the Inn range from very nice rooms to very roomy suites. They are furnished with nice furniture and very comfortable beds. Terry cloth robes offer an added plus and help chase the night chill away while getting ready to wind down for the evening and watching some TV. The historic paintings, busts, statues, books and building features, including coat rooms of a bygone era and the actual desk used by the Captain of the USS Kearsarge many decades ago are priceless, educational, patriotic and inspiring to people who love this great country of ours to continue to be good citizens, push hard for racial, gender, religious and ethnic equality for all of our citizens, as well as support our fantastic military, government workers and their leaders. It all starts with the club rules, membership application process and strict adherence to its dress code and code of conduct, which mandates civility, respect and fair treatment for others and oneself. Cursing and other "ways of the street" (from which I came) are not tolerated, nor should they be anyplace in a civil society, because God made us all better than that. The entire staff is truly exceptional. They work hard to meet member expectations and needs and do it well. They do whatever it takes, just like the very best eating, lodging and resort entities do. I HIGHLY recommend this place if you are considering joining or can visit as the guest of a member or a reciprocal club. read more

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Elitist snobs caught in the 19th century - dress code? In this day and age and in a city renowned for love and acceptance there is still a home for bourgeois pettiness and it is the Union League where people are judged by their jeans.... shame on you for your archaic rules and for wasting my time and money. I was supposed to attend a paid event on 10/16 and travelled an hour into center city for e pleasure of being summarily dismissed as unworthy. Never again read more

Superb in every way. Ambiance, service, food and drink were all outstanding. The Union League obviously takes great pleasure in excellence.

This is actually the "1821 Restaurant at the Union League." We ate here Friday night with friends. The chef here used to be at Blue Fountain at a well known luxury hotel in Philly and also was in NYC. This makes 1821 one of the top restaurants not just in Philly but in the country. We had superb drinks to start off. We then had caviar with all accoutrements, and fine table and beverage service. Our friends were members so the staff paid close attention to our needs. Also oysters on the half shell with the caviar. I may have had a wee bit of Scotch so ancient you cant even get it anywhere else. Our chefs even brought me gluten free breads, which no restaurant has ever done anywhere at any time. Our main courses varied. i had a game special of grilled antelope which was spectacular. A couple of us had excellent fish dishes and another of us had a tremendous beef dish. The wine selection here is stupifying. I had a sip of my friend's pinot--it was amazing! They have a deep and endless supply of superb red and white wines of fine age and vintage & appellation. Dessert was superb--a selection of small varied dishes for all to try, including fresh fruits. Coffee including decaf cappuccino was excellent. We retired to a lounging room after supper which is fashioned precisely in the manner of 1862--the chairs are most comfortable. I must say, I've been to the Union League many times going back to the 1980s, but the new changes and the new restaurant are superb. While the historical aspects of the Union League remain, it has been updated and modernized to be relevant for the 21st century. This is a world class restaurant and world class dining experience. Five stars and more if i could award them. A perfect meal. read more

So I was one of the lucky Philadelphian to dine at this signature restaurant, 1862 by Martin Hamann in the Union League. As soon as i entered the elegant entrance of the classic style league house ,I felt like a princess looking for her tiara. My Blue Moon Acres "Black & Tan " risotto with shaved Périgord truffles appetizer arrived as a masterpiece mystery and soon it was melting in my mouth. A gourmet bite with the highest level of sophistication. For my entree I ordered a sautéed beef tenderloin. My generous portion tenderloin was made to my medium well desire, surrounded by heirloom purple carrots and more shiitake Mushrooms (upon my request,) topped with golden raisin finished with a tableside drizzle of red wine sauce. A flawless exceptional dish. It was just about the right time to get the Chocolate Soufflé. A soft, rich, and fluffy and impressive looking and baked to perfection.Oh my! simply, It was a little taste of heaven. What a excellence treat of Deliciousness! Can I say five and half Yelps! read more

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Yes, the building is beautiful, the food is good, the staff is great, and all the other good things people say about the UL. I just think it's not quite what it was way back when, but what old private club that time has forced to change their ways is? The members seem more wanna-be-important than they actually are, shocking I know. The exclusivity factor is a thing of the past when a cross-fit membership costs more annually. read more

I enjoy this place when visiting Philly. The breakfast is really good and the pub / bar is great for a quick bite at dinner. The Union League Inn is my favorite place to stay as well. read more

I was able to visit twice during a recent convention in the City of Brotherly Love. Knowing that this was the place where Winthorp was framed in "Trading Places" I couldn't wait to see it. First visit was Monday night to meet a colleague for cocktails. I didn't know about the dress code, so I walked through the front door in my black Wranglers, pink western shirt, and cowboy boots. I told the man I'm here for a meeting. He looked me up and down, and I realized immediately that I was in trouble. But after a few seconds, he told me to see them at the top of the stairs. I'm guessing I was one of the few ever allowed in wearing jeans. Second visit was for a dinner event the next evening. This time I'm properly attired in suit and tie - looking pretty dapper if I do say so myself. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner, followed by cigars and cocktails afterward. Two big thrills this evening: (1) seeing the room upstairs from the famous "Trading Places" scene and (2) Asking the bartender in the cigar bar where the paintings of the Confederate Generals are displayed. The look on her face was priceless. read more

The Union League - Southern gents enjoying fine cigars, beverages, and fellowship at the Union League of Philadelphia - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This review is for 1862, the Union League's member restaurant. Executive Chef Martin Hammon is a great talent and leads his team to do an outstanding job. Front of the house is excellent as well. This is one of the best fine dining restaurant in the city, maybe even the country! Meals here are comparable to Per Se, Fleur de Lys, etc. Marty's signature Squab dish is one of the best squabs I have ever had. He also works magic with game meat. Service is excellent, efficient and non-intrusive. The first visit here is bitter-sweet as nothing else will compare. read more

Words can't even describe the food here. Never had anything so delicious! The melon salad was the best thing I've ever eaten. read more

The Union League - Melon salad special - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Attended my cousin's wedding at the exclusive Union League and it was quite an experience to say the least! The building is smack in the heart of the best part if Philadelphia and is quite a shift from the rest of the city. Once inside the building, the decor screams opulence throughout. The wedding ceremony was in the Grant Hall on the first level-a lovely dark wood paneled room while the main wedding festivities were on the entire 2nd level. The main room (the Lincoln Hall) was magnificent as were the rest of the adjoining rooms that were used to cater food and seat the wedding guests. The 11 member Eddie Bruce Orchestra was great and one of the female singers was fantastic. It was definitely a smart move to carry flats as the music kept me on the dance floor for quite a while ;) read more

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The Union League is a bit stodgy for my taste, but the staff did a great job working a party that I went to there recently, hence the four stars. For the work party that I attended, we had drinks and appetizers. The food was pretty good but it was mostly fried and/or meaty, and I heard more than a few people comment that we could have used some veggies (that said, I have no clue who was in charge of the menu). Overall though, a nice venue for a party. read more

I attended a family wedding held in The Meade Room once upon a time a decade ago. For the wedding weekend, my family and I spent the night at the Inn of Union League. The architecture and decor is beautiful yet traditional. The quality of food is okay and the room was very dark with dim lighting. I can imagine Union League male members discussing stocks and the economy over cigars, scotch or whiskey in the early history of its inception. Union League is historic yet rich to Philly's history. While spending a night I felt like I was in colonial New England as our room is theme to a colonial yet warm decor while the bathroom is adorned with classic black and white tiles, facult fixtures and cabinetry. American colonial times... ahhh life was very simple and somewhat carefree happier without the agita and frustration of credit card debt, IRS, and ailing economic meltdown! read more

Classic inn located in the center city. Rooms are large and nicely appointed. Main areas ooze history. A little stuffy (dress code) and limited dining options. Not a luxury hotel, but wonderful stay. read more

Our family had a wedding here last night. What an unbelievably gorgeous and historic venue. They may not allow a Democrat to grace their walls but they made this Democrat feel very welcome. The room we stayed in was super classy. We had an incredible time, and I will be talking about it for a long time. read more

I stayed here as a guest of a member following my performance at a local cabaret. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Immediately, I felt out of place and was reminded how "out of place" I actually was when told that I had to change clothes before entering the lobby. Jeans and tennis shoes are a no-go. Who knew? Whoops. I explained that I was in town for a show and I had only costumes and casual clothing packed.( I should mention that I am a Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli impersonator of some fame in Las Vegas and New York. ) I was given leave to go to the elevator directly and was advised that I would not be permitted to dine unless I was appropriately dressed. I agreed, of course. I didn't want to offend my host, naturally. After passing inspecting eyes we made it to our room. It was exquisite. The view wasn't much but, I've seen Philadelphia. So what?! Lol. I enjoyed walking the halls and admiring most of the art there. It was a great thing to experience, really. I especially loved the look on the face of the late-night staff when they had to answer the buzzer at 4am to allow "Liza" to enter the building. They would not, however, permit the lovely bartender that escorted me back to the palace, my luggage in tow, in for a nitecap. Hahaha. That was fine. I wasn't all that dazzled by him and I was exhausted. Breakfast was smuggled up to my room by my hostess and we laughed all morning in plush robes that we considered wearing down to check out. Just the robes. Lol. In all, I doubt that I'd be welcomed back with great warmth but, the show was fabulous, the stay was free, and we all had a ball gossiping with some of the marvellous staff who realized we weren't Gestapo. I thoroughly enjoyed myself here. It shall remain a fond memory. To your staff, your designers, your housekeepers, and bell men...I thank you! read more

This club is fantastic! If you want to have a special dinner beg a member of this club take you to 1862. I'm just kidding, smile and bat your lashes, obviously do not beg but after you taste the food here you will beg to come back! The melon salad and the rabbit at my summer favorites. The menu is seasonal. read more

The Union League's signature restaurant 1862 is reason alone to become or befriend a member. Martin Hamm is beyond skilled, and his passion shows in his top-notch cooking. Refined palates frequently feel at home here, and it is easy to see (and taste) why. The building is historical and gorgeous, and the renovations (done by a friend's father) are incredible. The new kitchen and the Lincoln Room's revitalization are just two visual examples of the Union League's renaissance. The artifacts are enough to make this history nerd über excited. Also, you will never find a more professional, personable, and truly wonderful group of staff than the men and women who work at the Union League. It is clear that these individuals enjoy their rapport with the members--one man's retirement earned him quite the celebration in his honor. They are always happy to chat, and I genuinely enjoy every conversation I have with anyone, anywhere, in the League. The men and women who make up the Union League's membership today are increasingly diverse (thankfully), save for their consistently shared attribute of enjoying their personal success, which I would never begrudge any of them. I will also say that these people use their success and influence for an ever increasing number of good charities. From PAWS (who doesn't love puppies?!) to supporting the troops, they make sure they give back to their community. As a military spouse, it is plain to see that these efforts to help veterans and active-duty servicemen and women, and their families, go a long way in making a big difference. The League's devotion to etiquette may, at first, seem over the top, but after settling into the environment, it enables one to actually appreciate your surroundings--and your company. Power brokers, businessmen and businesswomen, and some incredibly stylish individuals, deck these halls. Lucky are those who get to join them. read more

I don't know a lot about this club, but my grandfather belonged here and I was recently feeling nostalgic. The Union League is a private dining club, where gentlemen can chill. i would imagine that lunch is the most popular hour. I ate dinner here once as a little girl with my grandparents before a show, and it was rather wonderful. I still remember the elegant candlelight and how everyone knew everyone. These days, we are always looking for a place where 'everybody knows your name.' That's why we are like to be 'locals' and regulars at restaurants and bars. The Union League is that place. I know it's hip to have disdain for private dining. If I walked in here today, people would probably think I was a server, but I can still appreciate history and I can see why people might like exclusive clubs. Also, the Union League does good things for charity, and member comraderie is something special. This is a historic place that recalls historical times, old elegance, and something intangible and remarkable. read more

4.5 stars - just a hair shy of 5. I just attended a private luncheon event at the Union League in the McMichael room. The service was "White Glove" and so attentive and wonderful. Food was good - with a great salad that contained dried cranberries, toasted oine nuts & crumbled bleu. Also a stand-out were the individually plated pecan pies. YUM-O! The entrees, however were just "OK" my fish stuffed with crabmeat bechamel was a tad dry and OVERLY salty. I can't speak to the other entree choice - roast pork - as I don't "do pig". But it looked nice. Great presentation and a great, historic space with lots of portraits to look at - one of George W. was being hung with great care the day I was there. You can also (try to) have your wedding here - but you really "gotta know someone" to get on the list. Oh - and there IS an enforced dress code - so don't be the bopob that I was and show up wearing sheakers. (I KNEW I shoulda hauld my shoes along..) They snuck me in thru the back. read more

Attended the Junior happy hour last night with a friend (who is a member). Gorgeous building, surprisingly solid cuisine, tons of Philadelphia's "elite" walking around. I met a few prominent lawyers, and one news anchorwoman. There are some downsides: the bar was stocked with very mediocre liquor, especially for a place of this standing. Your best vodka cannot be Grey Goose. Your best bourbon cannot be Maker's Mark. Just unacceptable. The joining process is pretty long and convoluted. And if you're not a right winger you may feel out of place. All in all, I don't know if I'll want to join (considering the monthly fees are about as much as my monthly student loan payments) but it's a great place to visit. read more

Being at the Union League for an event makes me wish (more than usual) that I am some sort of rich socialite that could gain membership to such an establishment. The building is just breathtaking and so distinguished looking. The floors are solid marble, and the walls are lined with oil paintings of distinguished Americans of yesteryear. The exquisite woodwork and high ceilings certainly add to the ambiance. The Union League is definitely a much more sophisticated departure from the typical catering hall. My only "complaint" was that the food I was able to sample was just OK. I was there for an hors'd deuvers type affair with cheese plates & pasta stations as well as some butlered items, but nothing was a real stand out. However, for service and ambiance, the Union League can't be beat. read more

I have eaten at a number of clubs in major cites including LA, Manhattan, SF and Boston. While the architecture may be magnificent, the wood paneling and stone work exquisite, the food is inevitably mediocre. 1862 is an exception to that (almost) universal rule. In that fine dining room, the food actually matches the incredible history and presence of the physical structure. Indeed, in some ways, the 1862 dining room with its sleek, elegant modern look and feel is like an island within the grand historic look and feel of the rest of the club. Let's start with the bar room first. Elegant yet comfortable with every "top shelf" label you could desire. Enjoyed the Lagavulin 16 year single malt, neat with a water back. My colleague had a glass of Veuve while her "friend" had a Bombay Shaphire and Tonic. Then went to the dining room. Started with soft shell crabs; absolutely perfect, followed by a delicious pork lion. Lobster tail accompanied by tortellini stuffed with short rib for my dinner companions who raved about it. The service is exquisite all designed to make members and their guests feel welcome. But here is the best part; their wine collection built over many years is extensive and priced a few dollars over retail at the time of purchase. The wines are a steal and by themselves worth coming for dinner. Whether you feel like French, Italian or California they have top labels and older vintages at ridiculous prices. This restaurant compares well with the best in Philly on all counts and, if you can get an invite do not miss the opportunity. read more

The Union League - My colleague who is a member and her "friend". - Social Clubs Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

We had our office Christmas party here. Beautiful building, great food, and service. If you ever get invited to go, you must try it at least once, just to say you were there. But since I love old buildings and history I found the place fascinating. There is a strict dress code, which is listed on their web-site. Non-members only have access to certain common areas. read more

Gorgeous building. I always wanted to go inside the Union League, and finally had the chance for the Alzheimer's Association Gatsy Gala on Saturday (a fun excuse to be all fancy pants, drink and dance for a good cause.) The marbled floors, high ceilings, and carved wood are beautiful. It was a great venue for this type of event and imagine a wedding would be fantastic here too. They provided beer/wine open bar and hors d'oeuvres, and the service was excellent. Delicious cheese, bruschetta, rigatoni, chicken satay, and mini sliders, mmmm. I don't always get dressed up and do fancy things, but when I do I'd prefer to go to the union league. read more

The Union League is an oddity in what is otherwise a very liberal and diverse city. It's still the kind of place where you can take out your monocle, light up a cigar, pour yourself a scotch and announce (without having to look around first), "Goddamn, is it great to be white." And everyone will agree with you. Because they are also white. Membership aside, this place is gorgeous on the inside, not to mention deceptively large. It's got very staid furnishings, very appropriate for the building and its clientele. Came here for a dinner event, and the service was fantastic. The food is pretty stellar, even though it was cooked factory-line style for a pretty large group. Stop by for a steak and a whiskey if you can afford it, whitey read more

The Union League is one of those places that most of us who spend time reading Yelp reviews probably would never visit. An uppity men's club requiring jackets seems like a pretty dated idea to me. Despite all that, it's definitely a cool building to check out if you get the chance to visit. I was able to stop in for a dinner reception for a professional society a few weeks back. Upon first arrival the smell of cigar smoke hit me from the side smoking room. I guess because this is a private club they can skirt those laws. It didn't bother me too much, but it could bother some. From there we followed the long walkway past several unidentified rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a library to the back of the building where a large marble staircase brings you up to another level of rooms. We then proceeded to the main ballroom adorn with paintings of the more important (I guess?) members of the Union League over the years. The only one I recognized was Abe Lincoln over the main speaking podium. As for the food, it was the typical catered type of event. Nothing special, but not too bad either. The stuffed chicken was the standout. As for the drinks. Expensive, and these were some of the worst bartenders I've ever encountered in my life. The one woman could not even make change of a $20. The other two guys were slower than you can imagine. They were working for tips, so you would think there would be some motivation to do something... but I guess not. Overall I wouldn't go out of my way to try to get into this place, but it's worth checking out if you get a free meal out of it. read more