"It was a real joy to see life return to this charmingly labyrinthine building (that has been empty for several years) with this Bywater cocktail space. There’s the main bar and a dining room with some cute nooks just off the main space, plus a small courtyard with a striking mural; chandeliers bring a touch of illuminated elegance, and owner Jessica Robinson has created an elevated neighborhood bar/restaurant, gratifyingly bereft of knowingly-quirky decor or try-hard gimmicks. The cocktails are solid, creative enough to be interesting but still very accessible; the bar program knows exactly what it’s doing, but it won’t make you feel inadequate if you’re not an expert. Try the Krewe of Justini, which mixes tropical melon and pineapple with a potent punch of white spirits, or the Fuego for tequila, a piquant jab of muddled jalapeño, and a healthy slug of pineapple to cut through the spice. The happy hour specials include a $6 champagne and a $7 French 75 that should quickly establish a loyal clientele." - Paul Oswell, Andrew Parks
