A Retro Revival in East Lib with Charm to Spare, babe.
Step into Hey Babe, and you're stepping into a vibe. Tucked inside the historic YMCA, once Ace Hotel- turned Maverick Hotel, this moody little lounge brings vintage soul & modern hospitality to East Liberty. Think soft lighting, curved edges, craft cocktails, and cozy plates meant to be shared -- or not, I won't judge.
The name Hey Babe nods to the casual affection between co-owners Danielle Cain & Rob Hirst, and the entire space echoes that warmth. It's equal parts neighborhood hangout and cocktail haven, with standout drinks like the cheeky "Li'l Baby Jeffrey" (a smoky, citrusy mezcal mix) & the "Espresso, Babe" -- a dangerously smooth draft-tini that made me consider ordering two (spoiler alert, I did).
We dove into a dreamy spread: sea salt focaccia with ramp-lemon butter (literal magic), crispy potatoes with Calabrian chili aioli, and kimchi mac & cheese with pork belly that made us weak in the knees. The masa gnocchi? Unexpected and unforgettable. The brisket biscuit? A Southern love letter. And don't sleep on dessert -- the pistachio éclair and coconut pandan panna cotta both hit just right.
Their "Golden Hour" from 4-6 is *the* move: discounted drinks and 15% off food. Pair that with the effortlessly cool ambiance and you've got a spot perfect for after-work hangs with friends or a dreamy little date night.
Everything was thoughtful, flavorful, and totally #GOUDapproved Hey Babe's got you, babe.
sea salt whole wheat focaccia
fresh thyme, ramp-lemon butter
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crispy potatoes
calabrian chili aioli, chives
9
kim chi mac & cheese
gochujang, scallions, five-spiced pork belly
17
masa gnocchi
smoked chicken, salsa verde, pickled red onion, cilantro, cotija, crema
25
brisket biscuit
slaw, carolina gold barbecue sauce, buttermilk biscuit
24
local strawberry trifle
yuzu curd, strawberry compote, whipped cream, buttermilk biscuit
13
pistachio éclair
luxardo cherry mousse, dark chocolate
14
today's little something sweet
coconut and pandan panna cotta with coconut streusel
6