Last March I wrote a review for Elsie's, this new speakeasy in Rock Hill. Unfortunately it wasn't recognized as being for a new cocktail bar and it was instead posted as an Update for its "sister" restaurant, Kounter. I am now reposting this in its rightful place. (Fingers crossed, it remains here this time.)
Rock Hill now has its own Speakeasy. In downtown rests a new clandestine hideaway. Elsie's is a wonderful place to spend an hour or an evening with guests.
Part of the fun is finding Elsie's. It's next door to Kounter, directly across the Freedom 9 mural alley. But it's well-disguised, hidden behind a small sandwich and deli "bodega".
The question to ask is "how do we get in?". Easy, just walk into the deli and give the cashier the secret password (hint -it's available on the Facebook and Instagram sites). You'll then be led through - no, I won't say, that's all part of the fun and adventure - and into the bar.
The atmosphere is dark, romantic and serene (caution, cell phones must be kept on silent and no calls are allowed within the club). One side of the carpeted hall has a long bar counter with upholstered chairs, small tables are on the other side and larger group seating is available in the back. There is ample and attentive service, we sat at the counter and were well cared for.
Elsie's has an excellent cocktail, wine and beer menu and also a selection of small food plates. We were greeted with a complimentary goblet of olives and almonds- classy! My wife asked for "something with mezcal" and was treated to an off-menu cocktail called "Naked &
Famous". Delicious! (And now part of my home cocktail repertoire.)
Elsie's is a great group or date-night opportunity just waiting for those of us who hate battling interstate traffic in and out of Charlotte. Check it out! read more