After a day of hurried movement and interminable class discussions on the value of teamwork, this bar was such a lovely refuge. Dark, private, slow and easy to sink into. It is understated, but perfectly crafted. All of the details – from the meticulous mixing of the drinks to the angle of the wooden blinds framing a lone neon bus stop outside – create a whole that is at once charming and relaxed.
I started with a Jack Rose, a mixture of apple brandy, lime and grenadine, mainly because I liked the name. But, like Dong, by far my favorite mouthful was the combination of Old Speckled Hen with a plate of pretzels, pickles, mustard and cheddar. Brilliant. My earliest love affairs were with mustard and pickles and cheese. I wish I had known as a child that this was a possible dinner option. So many regrets.
The music was spot-on too. For some time, I stared at a veiled door off to the side behind which you could make out the profile of person. I pondered what this place was and who this person was. I decided that it was a DJ. I announced my conclusion to the group, but they countered that it was likely a make-out/fellatio room. I stared at the shrouded door and turned this over for a while. You’ll have to go there yourself to see what it actually is.
I loved this place. The food and drink and setting were executed with precision and thoughtfulness, but without any pretension. It was unusual in that way. Too many bars pride themselves on fancy cocktails but have an attitude problem to go with it. Too many people too.
One last thing. I just remembered that upon leaving the bar I went up to a table of mild-mannered and otherwise engaged young men and – in a display of middle school bravado – dropped a piece of paper that said “boys or girls?” And then made a quick move for the door.
Hot.
That was actually my biznazz card…not just any scap of paper….
What was in the room?????