Mad Rex, Philadelphia, Pa.

Step into a post apocalyptic world and virtual reality lounge at Mad Rex in Philadelphia, Pa. The Survivors Kitchen and Vrex Lounge provides food, drinks and fun all under the meticulously detailed doomsday theme.

The theme and overall vibe of the bar and restaurant was ideal for a quick dinner and drinks before a show at the Fillmore on Halloween. The waitstaff’s over-the-top apocalypse gear blended in perfectly with the other costume-clad patrons at the bar.

My sister and I ordered a few appetizers and drinks before our show and were immediately served a carrot hummus by our server.

The clear fan favorite of Mad Rex patrons is the survivor menu. Ranging $20–33, guests choose their protein of fish, chicken or beef, one side and a long list of sauces and spices. All protein, except chicken, is served rare and brought to the table for guests to sizzle themselves over the hot stone on their table — contributing nicely to the Armageddon theme.

Being vegetarians, this gimmick was wasted on us and we ordered the wild mushroom flatbread, seasonal vegetable tempura and pretzel bites — clearly two vegetarians walked into the wrong restaurant.

Another main draw to Mad Rex is the virtual reality lounge. Guests sign up to step out of reality and into another world in the lounge with a few other patrons. I could see this space being great for parties and group events, which Mad Rex hosts regularly. The hour after, fallout Friday and survivor Saturdays are just a few of the events so far.