Emily C.
Yelp
I could have sworn that after all the times I've been here, I'd at least have written a review? Seriously? No? Ok, well here goes.
My favorite cocktail bar in CT, hands down. The drink list is encyclopedic, overwhelming, but still well organized with plenty of libations to pique anyone's interest. I stopped in with some friends last night and came away with a new appreciation for the staff, from mixologists to servers. Surprisingly unpretentious and completely helpful, willing to generously help guide their patrons through the menu and describe any seemingly offbeat ingredient or obscure liquor.
Yeah, it's expensive, but it's also a complete treat. Not my everyday kind of bar (although it would be if I lived in New Haven, their happy hour is amazing) but a nice destination for the times I find myself in the Elm City. Last night, I sampled several cocktails including the Aquavit Fix-Up (aalborg akavit, campari, pink grapefruit juice straight up), the Church Key (my longtime favorite, aalborg akavit, passion fruit purée, ginger simple syrup, and apple cider foam - in past garnished with a hibiscus flower, this time with a husk cherry), and a sip of my friend's Jolly Roger (four roses reserve bourbon, passion fruit purée, cayenne, soda), which was delightfully complex with a hint of spice. The huge bowl of truffle fries was a perfect accompaniment to my last drink of the night, a lovely flute of Llopart Cava Brut Rosé. Salty & sparkling, the perfect pairing.