I really feel that it is unfair to compare a new business to the previous business that just happened to have occupied the building. After all, they have nothing to do with one another. Unfortunately for Ivy Lounge, they associated themselves with Obscura. To the devastation of several regulars, Obscura closed their doors very quietly by saying that they were making some renovations. We were told they would reopen in a few short months, but that nothing would be changing. Then we were informed via social media that they were opening under a new name, but were planning to keep several of Obscura's popular cocktails. I wasn't particularly surprised that Obscura needed a makeover. While it was a fantastic and delicious place to hang out, it was never particularly busy because it felt like a doll house; not exactly a place that everyone felt comfortable. So I really looked forward to Ivy Lounge because I expected good drinks and a more welcoming and laid back atmosphere.
Oh Ivy Lounge, how you let me down. The makeover they were referring to was some brown paint and replacing the doll house furniture with cheap black pleather furniture that looked like it belonged in a bachelor pad. When we asked the waitress what Obscura drinks they had available, she looked at me as if I were speaking Swahili. She seemed even more perplexed when I asked for a cocktail menu. After speaking with a bartender, we presented with a stained and crumpled menu printed on a piece of paper that didn't impress. She recommended the Vaportini, which I genuinely think may be the only thing she knew how to make. It sounded unusual and intriguing, but we decided to give it a try. We were presented with a clear glass bowl with a tea light lit under it. As the tea light warmed up the alcohol, we used a straw to inhale the alcohol vapors. When I was 19 and 20 I consumed cheap alcohol because my main goal was getting drunk. As I got into my mid to late 20's, I began consuming alcohol for flavor. The Vaportini is clearly meant for someone who's looking to get a quick buzz and nothing more. No thanks. After about 10 minutes, we abandoned it.
I would normally give a place more than one chance before giving such a terrible review. But I strongly feel that we were duped by Ivy Lounge. I wouldn't have had such high expectations if they hadn't associated themselves with Obscura's name. Do yourself a favor and save you money for a place like Igby's or just head to OTR for something hand crafted with love. read more