This whole place is such a summer vibe. There is a little something for everyone. It was a bit confusing when we first arrived. Here is the lay of the land: Check in at the little red table in the center of the outdoor courtyard if you want "full service". - which means eating and drinking at a table with wait staff. It is not seat yourself at the outdoor tables, like we originally thought. There is a nice sized bar indoors and seating at the bar is first come first served. We ordered several of the small plate "snacks" and I can tell you that the hummus is not to be missed. It is served with (homemade?) tortilla chips that are absolutely addictive. They have lots of choices for wine, beer, and cocktails. Towards the back entrance of the property, there is a drink truck where you can also order "walkaway" food and drinks. Not entirely sure where you sit with the food/drinks you order, as most of the seating seemed reserved for full service. Additionally, there is a photo booth for pics (long line) and Warda Patisserie is right next door and accessible through a garden walkway. read more

Father Forgive Me - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Father Forgive Me was named #83 on North America's 50 Best Bars list. It's located in a 110-year-old church garage, and there's a beautiful courtyard outside for guests to either sit on the grass or their picnic tables. Just an overall beautiful space. The inside restaurant area is also beautiful. We wanted to sit inside at the bar, so we waited for some seats to open up. If you want to sit outside, all you have to do is order at the bar and they'll serve your drinks in plastic cups for you to take outside. The rhubarb pie punch was so delicious I had to order it twice! Probably one of my favorite cocktails I've ever had. I also ordered the maurixio cattelan, which tasted like ginger ale. For a snack before dinner, we chose to get the burrata and it was so refreshing. The service was great and our bartender was super friendly! The logo with the little lamb is adorable. I bought one of their wine glasses with their logo on it too for just $10. read more

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I have been wanting to come here for quite some time so we made this a priority! We came in and sat at the bar first before walking around. We enjoyed a couple of cocktails and ordered some chips and dip. Be prepared. There are a lot of bees even inside. The service was fantastic! I loved everyone there! We then walked around. I found out there is a bed and breakfast there. That sounds like something I need to plan on doing cuz how fun is that? Everything was beautiful! I'm so happy I finally got to experience this! read more

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This is a cool spot to come hang out. There are several different vibes there. Inside is cutesy romantic. Although the seating is not comfortable for folks who may be a little larger. But the ambiance is nice and the servers are great. Outside is also a vibe. Very chill and laidback. The food and drink are good, but overpriced, especially the food. It's good food, but a sandwich for $18 and no sides is a little much. I will go back to try them again and maybe have some beers outside. I also imagine that it is gorgeous in the fall. read more

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Father Forgive Me was an amazing experience from start to finish. I had the caviar and the mortadella sandwich, and both were delicious and beautifully prepared. The wine list was unique with plenty of great options, making it easy to find something different to try. The atmosphere, food, and overall experience all came together perfectly. Definitely a spot I'll be coming back to. read more

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We sat outdoors at a round concrete table. The decor is very cute and atmosphere is fun. The small plates were delicious. We especially enjoyed the antipasto skewers and burrata. I would recommend this place for a friend get together or cute date spot. The grounds have beautiful outdoor sculptures and spaces to hangout and stroll through. A Warda Pâtisserie location is on the same grounds. Warda's pastries are a delight. Warda has won the James beard award for their pastries (this is the second location I know of in Detroit). Just great all around. read more

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This transported me directly to a cafe in a fancy art gallery! You are greeted by a maze of greenery and sculptures. The building itself has this open air concept and there is both outdoor and indoor seating. The drinks are amazing and had tons of unique flavors! I came with a small group, tried four different ones, and all of them were delicious. 10/10 would definitely return!!! read more

This place is a whole vibe! I loved every minute of it! Love the wine selections. Didn't get a chance to try the food because it was a special event going on where they had 2 food trucks. The bartender was cool though. And the music selection was top notch! It really set the tone. I will definitely be back all summer long! read more

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Father Forgive Me was high on my Detroit list after hearing so much hype about it, both online and from friends. Nate and I stopped in on our most recent visit to Detroit and had a lovely experience. The space is tucked away but had a surprising amount of outdoor space--we were there in January but I'd love to come back in the summer. We were greeted right away and given a spot near the bar. The menu includes cocktails, lots of wine, and several tasty food options. It was quite busy inside, so it took a bit of time for our server to come over to us, but we weren't in a rush. They had ten cocktails on their list and I tried the bullet proof soul and Nate got the negroni alla perra. The ingredients list for some of the cocktails include things I've never heard of, but at a place like this, I just know it's going to be good. Our drinks were perfectly balanced and very tasty. We also ordered the mortadella sandwich to split--this was delicious. It was pretty messy, but worth it. It was perfectly toasted and full of mortadella. Everything on the menu sounded delicious and I would love to try more of the food options. Can't wait to visit again! read more

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Came to Father Forgive Me for a quick drink and the vibes of this place are unmatched! If you haven't made your way out to the Shepard, it's a must. There's a gallery, skatepark, sculpture garden, and well this new restaurant. The drinks are fun and even their take on a dirty martini was absolutely divine. It was extra briny and savory, with great olives. Worth checking out and even spending a couple hours hanging read more

Father Forgive Me - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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Father Forgive Me has been on my list for quite awhile and I was delighted to finally check them out and experience their whimsical Secret Gardenesque atmosphere and delicious cocktails and bites. Father Forgive Me is an intimate wine and cocktail bar, serving light fare tucked away in a Detroit neighborhood, not too far from Bell Isle. The biblical name comes from the building's roots as a former Roman Catholic church. The church building is now an art gallery called The Shepherd and the rectory is a bed and breakfast. Warda Patisserie is also on the grounds so you can also enjoy delicious coffee or pastries after your visit to Father Forgive Me. There's also a skatepark and sculpture garden on the grounds as well. The bar area is a cocktail lounge in the church's former garage with some indoor seating but the real appeal and intrigue of this unique restaurant/bar is the open air patio seating on their grounds. There are several umbrellaed patio tables and a grassy hill where people picnic while enjoying their favorite beverages from the venue on beach blankets. There's a walk-up bar where you can order cocktails served in plastic cups and you can find a spot to relax on the grounds or you can go to the host stand to be seated at their patio tables which have table-service. They also have limited reservations available online. We didn't make a reservation and just requested a table at the host stand once we arrived and we were seated immediately. Service was warm, friendly, attentive and knowledgeable with our server giving recommendations. We started with cocktails and I had the strawberry rhubarb pie punch which was delicious and tasted like pie in a glass. My boyfriend had a crisp refreshing Italian beer served in a frosty chilled glass. I also had the Ostuni sunrise, with orange wine, Aperol, tequila, and grapefruit sherbet. I preferred this cocktail over the rhubarb pie punch as it was much lighter, and refreshing with bright citrus flavors. For food, they offer light bites to enjoy with your cocktail like charcuterie, burrata, tin fish, dates and olives. We enjoyed lunch here and I had the brie ham and jam sandwich and my boyfriend had the mortadella sandwich topped with pistachios. The sandwiches where a large size and very filling with delicious fresh cut deli meats served on warm crusty bread and melty cheese. They were so tasty! The atmosphere here is dreamy, romantic, cozy, airy and relaxing. This is the perfect destination to visit on a warm breezy lazy summer day. They also offer specials events like their pig roast they hosted for their one year anniversary and live music events on select Thursdays in the Summer. We really enjoyed our visit here and cannot wait to return soon again. read more

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Fast service in a beautiful location with plenty of seats. I ordered a kombucha and it was phenomenal. I got a few orders of the dates pictured below and they were amazing! They were so good I'd consider making some at home! I also got a one of the ham sandwiches and that was delicious. It was sweet and filling! I forgot to grab a picture of it. The only small complaint I had was I sat on the corner right by the window and the speakers were a bit loud. Otherwise, it was a joyful experience! Definitely will be coming back. It also is right next to an art gallery inside a church which makes it the perfect spot to go on dates! read more

Father Forgive Me - Dates - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Stopped in for a quick birthday drink and snack after seeing a few drool-worthy posts! We started with drinks and ordered the roasted beets, scallop carpaccio, and mortadella. We loved the beets, but found the black radish to be overpowering. We loved the carpaccio but found it lacking in acid / brightness to offset the sodium. That was surprising given the pomegranate, apple and chimichurri-type drizzle. We both liked the mortadella but it too was super heavy with sodium from the meat and could have used something to balance it a bit. The service was amazing, we wanted for nothing and everyone was friendly. The ambiance was gorgeous, seating comfortable, lighting romantic, this is a great date spot. My only complaint was a scent, maybe air freshener, or some sort of scent stick, possibly even something someone was wearing that seemed very amber, patchouli, sandalwood heavy. It was overpowering for the space. I think we will probably wait until summer so we can sit outside before we try again, but we will be back! read more

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Very cute out door space. Love the art installations. The wine cart was a plus to not have to stand in the long bar line.

What an amazing place! I went for brunch on a rainy Sunday. The menu is pretty much snacks and non typical offerings. Don't think about ordering a soda to drink or a coffee or an omelet or other breakfast offerings. Same goes for lunch and dinner, typically they do not offer such things. We went there thinking we would be having a traditional brunch meal and were surprised that find out that wasn't happening. The experience was still unforgettable although a more traditional menu would be amazing, the place is still a total stand out! read more

Service outstanding! Beautiful ground! Interesting, delious cocktail menu. Saturday afternoon, packed, but intimate quiet! Great tunes, company! Life is good! read more

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I came specifically for drinks, what caught my attention walking in is the art! There are beautiful sculptures outside and beautiful lighting since it is night time. Our server greeted us immediately and gave us the option between multiple seating arrangements. I ordered a FFM old fashioned 10/10, there is a nice snack menu but I declined since I've already ate. I plan to return soon, and can't wait for summer to use the outdoor seating. read more

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Father Forgive Me is the end of the summer vibe you have been looking for! It's an amazing addition to Detroit's cocktail bar scene. The vibes hit you from the moment you walk up with the Shepards views, sculptures, gravel pathways, patio tables, and open air interior. The drink menu is a bit small but solid. The cocktails and wine I sampled were tasty! I especially favored the orange wines on the menu! The food menu was definitely only appetizers. I would not come here expecting a full meal. I tried the marcona almonds, burratta, and mortadella sandwich. Each of these were delicious with such unique flavors! I'm still dreaming of the sandwich..!! RUN don't walk to Father Forgive Me before the summer ends! read more

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I love this place nice place for meeting friends, great drinks and shareable small plates. Very quaint.!

Wow! An amazing place for being outside or having a drink at the bar with an open patio!! Parking is street parking which was free. It's not obvious where the entrance is- we initially parked on Parkview Street but the entrance is off of Agnes Street (we had to walk around the church and down a bit). We were a bit lost but soon found the patio, bar and were amazed at the area. It's a pretty setting, relaxing and tranquil. We decided to sit at the bar for a break from the hot sun and enjoyed a cocktail from the bartenders who immediately got us some waters. We enjoyed our drinks and felt like we were at some resort (just missing the beach!) It's a great place to check out and the fact that Warda Patisserie is right behind them is a bonus! read more

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This is a perfect place to spend a summer evening with friends. The cocktails range from $12 to $16 so similarly priced to other cocktail bars I have been to and each and every one was delicious! We also tried their house made cucumber seltzer and it was really yummy and refreshing! If you are looking for a meal this is probably not the right place. The food menu is more for snacks and it is olive heavy. So if you are not an olive fan about half of the dishes had olives in them. We did try the Bolivian cheese bread and burratta (hoping the cherries in the tapanade would overpower the olives). They were both pretty good. The dipping sauce with the bread was really yummy and the burratta was good except for the unexpected cilantro flowers on top. My friend and I both really dislike cilantro and it was not on the menu because the chef just chooses something from his garden each day to use. I would definitely recommend checking out this new spot. There is a small parking lot and then free street parking surrounding the property. Get a cocktail, walk the grounds, and soaked up the end of summer! read more

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Loved Father Forgive Me! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Great summer patio vibe. read more

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One of the best new additions to the Detroit food, wine, and cocktail scene! First of all, the ambiance is super inviting -- lots of tables outdoors, with a classic interior that still has a lot of open air (not sure how this will work during winter, but I guess we'll find out!). The cocktails are some of the best in the city. I've been here twice and have tried most of the cocktail list -- everything is good to great, but my favorites so far have been the Maurizzio Cattelan and Rhubarb Pie Punch. I need to try more of their food, as I've only tasted the burrata and the mortadella sandwich. Both were good, though I wouldn't say spectacular. The wine list is small but solid, focusing on low intervention Old World wines. Pricing seems fair relative to other places selling similar wine in metro Detroit. Service has been good both times. Once, I sat at the bar and the bartender was friendly and engaging. The second time, we had a table and our server was prompt and helpful. Definitely a must try, especially while the weather is nice. read more

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This place is so neat. Sort of remote as it's within a lesser known neighborhood or Detroit, but still lots of parking and a safe property. Came here last Saturday less than a month after they opened and the place is constantly busy with people coming and going. The drink orders machine is constantly printing tickets but the staff stay on top of keeping people satisfied. Lots of room to walk the property and explore and you can choose to make a reservation at an indoor space or just show up and sit at the bar or roam the outdoor spaces. Good for a small drinks with friends or a casual date night. read more

Father Forgive Me - Bar space - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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Tucked away on the sprawling, award-winning campus of The Shepherd--a magnificent cultural hub transformed from a century-old church--Father Forgive Me is more than just a bar; it's a destination. As a cornerstone of the celebrated Little Village, this spot offers a truly unique experience that marries sophisticated libations with an atmosphere of serene, artistic tranquility. What immediately sets Father Forgive Me apart is its breathtaking location. Situated in the former church garage, the bar feels like a hidden gem behind the main church building. The property's design is a masterclass in blending old-world architecture with modern elegance. The open-air space is a triumph, featuring an abundance of outdoor seating that invites you to relax under the sky. The partially covered patio, in particular, provides a perfect retreat, offering shelter from the elements while still allowing you to feel connected to the vibrant grounds. As you wander toward the back of the property, the experience deepens with the discovery of a sculpture garden--the Charles McGee Legacy Park. This thoughtful addition, honoring the late Detroit artist, provides a peaceful and inspiring backdrop, elevating a simple evening drink into a cultural outing. The sculptures, along with the meticulously landscaped grounds, create a sense of calm that is hard to find in a bustling city. The entire campus, from the beautiful bed and breakfast ALEO to the public skatepark, feels like a cohesive, artistic village that's both a gathering spot for friends and a sanctuary for reflection. The menu at Father Forgive Me is a testament to the bar's commitment to quality and local connection. This isn't a place with a mile-long list of overwhelming options; rather, it's a curated selection designed to spark conversation and delight the senses. Cocktails with a Story: The cocktail program is a creative marvel. Each drink seems to have its own narrative, often incorporating Michigan's seasonal bounty. Take, for example, the "Magnolia Martini," a clever twist on a classic infused with pickled magnolia blossoms. This kind of delightful experimentation showcases the talent behind the bar. Another standout is the Rhubarb Milk Punch, a silky, refreshing drink that champions locally-sourced ingredients. The team here champions hyper-local makers and growers, and the passion for their craft is evident in every sip--from a riff on an Old Fashioned using Michigan-made bourbon to playful touches like a tiny lamb graphic "printed" on an ice cube. A Wine List for the Curious: The wine selection is equally impressive. It's a thoughtfully curated list that encourages exploration, moving beyond the usual suspects to feature intriguing labels from lesser-known wine regions. Whether you're in the mood for a crisp Croatian white, a robust Tuscan red, or an earthy orange wine from Slovenia, the knowledgeable staff is eager to share the story behind each bottle and offer a perfect pairing suggestion. Perfect Bites: While not a full dinner spot, the snack menu is designed to complement the drinks perfectly. Guests can enjoy "perfect little bites for a leisurely evening," such as a twisty French sacristan pastry or a mortadella sandwich on crispy focaccia. These small plates are not an afterthought; they are delicious, well-executed complements that ensure the experience is satisfying from start to finish. Father Forgive Me is, without a doubt, an amazing experience and a great gathering spot for friends. It's a place where every detail, from the art on the walls to the ice in your glass, has been considered. It's the perfect spot for a sophisticated date night, a relaxed catch-up with friends, or a tranquil moment of escape. The combination of its stunning physical location, impeccable service, and a menu that celebrates local creativity makes it a must-visit destination in Detroit's vibrant East Village. This bar doesn't just serve drinks; it serves an experience--one that will have you coming back for absolution, time and time again. read more

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Great food and drinks. Good service. Amazing atmosphere, unique architecture design, comfortable seating, cozy, clean read more

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Not really a food selection but the drinks are awesome and the atmosphere is everything. Service was phenomenal, although crowded bartenders were attentive. Great place to meet and vibe. read more

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I had been meaning to try this newish Detroit hot spot for a while and I'm glad finally made it in. It's initially seemed a little pricey for the portions, but well worth it. There's a lot of thought that goes into these dishes and they are beautifully plated. Our server was Lauren and she was the perfect amount of attentiveness without being overbearing. We tried several of the specials including the mushroom skewer and wedge salad. I loved that they brought the pancetta on the side without me asking (I'm a pescatarian, my date is not.) I adored the pao de querjo, I will definitely be craving the little cheese popover-type biscuits. We loved the historic vibe and it wasn't too noisy for conversation, always a plus! read more

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Perhaps one of the most beautiful bars in Detroit. I may need to say a few hail Marys after a few drinks. The inside is not major wow factor, but the view of the outdoors, nice patio, and nature is the draw. I feel like I am in commune with nature. This is a full service bar: cocktails, wine (bottles), beer, and non alcoholic for quitters and snacks from bites sized salty snacks to more substantial options like sandwiches. Some places I want to go once and not sure about coming back. I want to come back to this place. And the kicker some nice indie tunes being streamed. Have fun and debauchery and ask for forgiveness later... read more

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Great stop for some small apps and cocktails. We went during the fall months so we were seating inside- but I can tell the outside area is an absolute vibe in the summer. We will be back! Great service, and loved the concept that it's an old church! read more

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I experienced Father Forgive Me with a group of ten folks on a early Friday evening. first of all the renovation of what appears to have been a old church garage was amazing. The grounds around it are inviting even on a crisp all day, with an outdoor fire pit. We stayed indoors. There were several non-alcoholic options. I enjoyed a rose and hibiscus soda. The sound volume was just right for conversation yet the place felt lively. What stood out was the service. This is basically a bar, but the staff were very attentive. Making sure glasses of water were constantly filled. Drinks were replenished. Even for us non-alcohol drinkers . Then I found out that it was on the grounds of the old annunciation church. I'm glad it found new life bringing people together in the community. read more

Father Forgive Me - stained glass panel of the nativity in the old annunciation church now converted to an art center - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

This is such a cute spot. Unfortunately it was raining when we went so we didn't get to sit outside, but the inside was really nice. Our bartender explained the drinks to us and he was really nice. The drinks were in point. I would definitely recommend this as one of my top spots to get cocktails. read more

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Amazing vibes to this place! Small cozy vibes inside with amazing outdoor seating available! The food was sooo good and some good choices to chose from! The drinks and deserts were amazing as well! Paired with the friendly and super helpful server this place is a must go! read more

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Had 5 different food choices. Most were very greasy and small. The mortadella sandwich was especially greasy. Over $100 for the food and no drinks. Won't go there again. read more

Very cute place. I don't think I would call it a restaurant, but they do have some pretty good "snacks". My wife and I sat at the bar and had some good conversations with Nick, the bartender. (Thanks, Nick!) The drinks were very good and the snacks we good as well. I didn't feel that anything really blew us away, but it was a solid showing and the drinks were very good. I'd go back as it is a pretty interesting place. There seems to be a grassy hill off to the side where people can sit with their dogs and have a drink as well. read more

Father Forgive Me - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Quiet gardens surround this church that on the back side is a little bar with both indoor and outdoor seating. Elevate cocktail menu and light snacks. Drinks are hand crafted and unusual ingredients. Great romantic spot. Will return! read more

Father Forgive Me - Cocktails! With flowers... and very cool shaped ice - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Vibes are immaculate!! Definitely worth checking out. The grounds are gorgeous & theres lots of seating! I just got one glass of wine at the bar to check it out but will for sure be back. Pretty busy for a Sunday night but no issue finding parking read more

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Very cool location tucked away with a welcoming outdoor space. Bartenders accommodating. They offer a variety of appetizers. Tried the burrata, was okay-not spectacular...The location is mainly outside and there are plenty of bees. Definitely worth exploring at least once. read more

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I like it. But I want to love it! I went 2x this week - after work on Thursday and Saturday at 1pm. Ambiance 10/10: it's a beautiful spot with art, a garden, and good vibes Service 8.5/10: Both times we were seated promptly and the servers were gracious. We would have ordered another round of drinks both visits, but the place had gotten pretty busy, so by the time the wait staff came back around we just got the bill. Food 7.5/10: we had marcona almonds, a Brie/ham sandwich, burrata, and lemon cookies. I could take or leave everything but the cookies were amazing! Fresh out of the oven, and sooo good. Second visit my husband and I celebrated our anniversary and shared caviar served with a bag of better made potato chips, a bit of crème fraiche, and a bit of cured egg yolk shavings $85. Tip- be careful not to let the caviar tin fall in the melted ice water - it will ruin it! It was a nice splurge nonetheless. We considered tinned fish but for the $20 price tag we opted to crack open a can when we got home. Drinks: 6.5/10. Both times I ordered Rhubarb pie punch which was unique and tasty, BUT fell short on the pour. My first visit I switched to a rose flight and the second visit, I gave it another chance but after getting my drink, I pulled the giant ice cube from the glass, and the beverage only came up halfway to the line. If you look at pictures of the beverages, they do not remotely give you a good pour. $15 for 4 swallows makes me feel taken advantage of. I'm giving 4 stars for ambiance and lovely servers. read more

Another great new destination spot on Detroit's east side. It's more then a bar with outdoor seating. There's artwork, a skatepark, renovated houses, gardens and a church that is now an art gallery. We stopped in to check it out and sat at the bar for a cocktail and snack. The waitstaff were super helpful in explaining everything and we finally picked 2 apps and got drinks. Both were amazing. There were friendly patrons all around and we chatted with other bar admirers. We checked out the coffee shop, Warda, but didn't purchase anything then, but have had several of their desserts since then and they did not disappoint. The atmosphere is wonderful, indoor/outdoor bar, great outside seating - not sure how this will work in the winter? They also have very pretty stone paths with multicolor stones mixed in for a very peaceful beautiful look. It inspired me to add some multicolored stones to my garden! I can't wait to return. read more