Doug G.
Yelp
I have seen that neon sign on IG so many times and always told myself I would visit at some point, do the IG model thing and snap me a pic...well, I have since visited twice and not once have I posed in front of those lights...but I have had several DELISH cocktails that I can gush over! Maybe my third visit is when I will duck lip and peace sign it onto IG.
This spot is unique in several ways and has a really cool vibe that starts at the bottom of the steps you go down to enter the long corridor that is illuminated by the now famous neon lights that sit inside of Little Trouble. A lot of folks reference the Blade Runner movie and it is really spot on as LT is futuristic, chic, dingy, dim with a feeling of underground/back alley. It is definitely a place to experience and you feel cool for knowing it exists!
It is a fairly small spot that is located on the bottom level of a large multi-use complex on Howell Mill in West Midtown. It shares its home with the likes of Ormsby's, Flower Child, Savannah Bee Company, an apartment complex and a few other shops/eateries. Given its location, there is ample parking whether it be street, valet or the deck. I will say while I have never seen the deck 100% full, I have seen it very close to capacity...so this area gets really packed on the weekends!
Once you are pulled down the corridor towards the neons like a moth to a flame, you will more than likely be stopped and carded by the host/ess or security. Once you are past this point you can head the left of the bar or the right for the dining space. The bar is small and only seats around 6 - 8 people and the space itself holds a few tables as well. If you are waiting or being sat for dinner, more than likely you are going to head to the right where there is a decent size dining space with a variety of seating, some of which are very lounge-like and others are normal tables. The dining area also has a stage for a DJ to set up.
Each time we have come here it has been for drinks only, so I cannot speak to the food. However, they do have an Asian inspired menu that is heavy on the tapas style choices with a few large plates and some tasty sounding desserts. With that being said, the whole feeling of this place is more appetizer/cocktail, and not so much full blown dinner. But, you do what you do and enjoy it!
The specialize in sake based cocktails and pride themselves on the cocktail aspect of drinks and their menu reflects that. They love their whiskey and offer a quite extensive list of Japanese whiskey along with a few state based options as well. I am more of a light liquor fella, so I decided to go for their gin based cocktails on my visits. My first choice was the Satin Jacket which was light and floral in its essence. My partner is a whiskey fan, so they got the Flip/Reset, which apparently is one of the best cocktails they have ever had! I also ventured into a vodka cocktail called the Hotaru, which was tasty and refreshing! I still have a ways to go to work my way through the drink menu, but I have been happy with my choices so far!
Oh, and I would be remiss if I did not mention the access to the outside second level patio that they share with a few other local spots. You can access via the stairs that are around the corner from the neon's. While you don't get actual service here, it is a great space that features several patio tables and chairs so you can enjoy your cocktails or to go food outside on those beautiful evenings!
Overall, I don't know why it took so long for me to check Little Trouble out, but now that I have, I am super happy I have done so! It is definitely one of those places that I will make sure to recommend for a creative cocktail and cool atmosphere...and of course, I will certainly be back!