Looking for something intimate and romantic? Well, I suppose that depends on your definition of romantic. Dim lights? Yes. Intimate space? Yes. Tiny in fact. Just a few tables sprinkle the front entrance, which leaves a large space for mostly standing room. However, don't plan on having deep, intimate conversatoins across the table. This place gets loud. Live music starts in the back room at 10:30 on Tuesdays, but speakers adorn the entire place. I suppose this is good for those who want to snuggle up to their date and whisper in their ear.
We started at the bar, with friendly bartenders and attentive service. The mojitos were a favorite in our group. Classic ingredients with a twist - an addition of coconut! I had the Cuba Libre, which was decent. I'm a Miami girl, so the Cuba Libre is my drink of choice. I've had better, but this certainly wasn't the worst I've tasted. We also tried the Mango Picado - tequila, cointreau, mango, lime, and hot sauce. With those ingredients, we had to try it. I have to say, I couldn't drink more than one, but it was an interesting taste. It was a bit like a bloody mary with the hot sauce, but had that hint of fresh fruit taste thanks to the mango. Definitely worth a try given it's originality.
Shortly thereafter we moved to the back room right at 10:30, when the band started, which meant that all the tables were taken (all, meaning about 7 or 8). But, we didn't wait too long before a table got up and we were able to sit down. The crowd was low-key at first, as was the band. As the night went on, and the music got livelier, so did the crowd. It filled quickly, which meant you couldn't stand, or sit, without someone bumping into you. However, everyone was having a great time, and the band was phenomenal, so an occasional tap or jab didn't matter.
This bar also happens to serve food, which is nice. We ordered a round of empanadas, both chicken and spinach. The chicken ones were good, the spinach were outstanding. If you've had the empanadas at Tango Sur, then you know what I mean. The menu is limited, but offers authentic dishes at a reasonable price. And, the kitchen stays open until 1am, which is good for those who build up an appetite from excessive booze and excessive exercise on the dance floor. Only downfall? Service is extremely slow. They either need to hire more staff behind the bar, or come up with a better system, because at times we were waiting 30 minutes for a drink to show up. That did put a little damper on the evening.
One warning: wait as long as possible to break the seal. The bathrooms don't hold up too well as the night progresses. If you can manage to hold your breath for the time it takes you to go, more power to you!
All-in-all it was a fun night. Good music, good friends, and good food/drinks. Wouldn't be my number once choice of bar, but if I was looking to hear some great live music in an intimate setting, I would definitley head here. read more