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My sister was showing me around town, this seems to be one of her favorite go to spots. Good Vibes, Good Folks, Cozy Nights
Yasss! This place was so good. I'm a cocktail fiend and this was my jam. Before embarking on a weekend trip to CT, I (of course) looked up the best cocktail bars in the area. Little River Restoratives kept coming up on the lists. Reviews were good (thanks, fellow Yelpers!), so I decided to check it out. My brother and I drove straight from Boston to LRR and met our dad there at 6 PM on a Saturday. There were a few other parties - enough people for the place to seem occupied, but not enough to to seem crowded. By the time we left at around 8:30, the place was pretty full. The drink menu was inventive with ingredients that we hadn't seen before. The two bartenders were both nice and attentive. My whole crew (aka "fam") started out with The Gene Hackman which was bourbon, byrhh (what?), china china (what??!) and peychaud's. It was delicious. We didn't know what china china was, so we were given a taste. My brother is even more of a snob than I am, so when I told him I found what looked like a killer cocktail bar to go to in Hartford, he was like "there's no such thing as a good cocktail bar in Hartford *scoff scoff*". After tasting the china china - even before getting a real drink, he mouthed to me that this was the real deal. Yeah, bro! We proceeded to have 3 cocktails each. The bartender made me an off-menu drink that was a heightened daiquiri and it was dee-lish. I then ordered a prickly pear on-menu cocktail and didn't like it. Never having been to LRR before, I quietly called the bartender over and asked him if this was the kind of place where you order and "oh, well" if you don't like it or if they will make you something else you like. He said the latter and proceeded to make me a mean sloe gin fizz. Thank you, sir! That fit the bill. So - yes, there are for sure great cocktail bars in the Hartford area and this qualifies. Food seemed to be snacky - we didn't eat. Parking was easy and free on the street. Next time I'm in town, I'd like to come back here for sure. No re-gerts.
Such a good little spot! The cocktails were awesome and the people that work there are so nice. Overall just a good time!
It's date night and we already had dinner, but baby wanted to take me somewhere special! She wouldn't tell me where it was, but she surprised me by bringing me here, a place she had told me so much about! Atmosphere/Appearance: Cool, real cool. Like, you gotta know somebody, that knows somebody to get in type of cool. This place is set right on a busy street corner but be careful parking in the back, that lot belongs to the apartments, but there is plenty of fend-for-yourself street parking out front. It was a Saturday night and we didn't have too much trouble finding a spot for her fly ride. Once inside you're immersed by the amazing character of this place. The place is small, but not tiny with a few high top tables and a decent bar rail. There's exposed brick everywhere and unique decor all over. Just be sure to jump on whatever spots at the bar are available or a table if you can find one! Service: EXCELLENT. Kyle was LEGIT. He was smooth, friendly and hooked us up! Well, not with free stuff, but he served us excellent drinks and even made me one of his own personal specialties that wasn't on the menu! Food: B.Y.O.F.! It's like a winery! You can bring your own food right on in since they don't serve much besides hot dogs and something else. We're not here for the food though. We want the drinks! They may come out looking a bit small, but they pack a Mike Tyson punch... not a Floyd Mayweather punch. Lol. This bar isn't regulated so they just do whatever they want and I love it. I had a Doyer's Street to start with and it was so delicious. It was St. Germain, China China, Vermouth and Rye. I couldn't tell you what any of those things were, but I could sip on that all night long. I couldn't even tell you what my 2nd drink was, but it was amazing, literally one of the best drinks I've ever had. It was like a margarita made with gin and a few other fixings, but the bartender wouldn't tell me because it was his secret recipe. Rightfully so! I'd come back and ask for this every time. Value: It's a craft cocktail bar... in Hartford, CT... I'll let you guess how much they costs... yep. You're right. They DO offer a happy hour from 3:00pm to 6:00pm every single day filled with $6.00 wines, beers and cocktails, but drinks run from $9.00 on up to $14.00 depending on their complexity and stuff. Not too bad, but yeah, you can definitely go broke drinking in here. Lol. Come to happy hour. I LOVED this place and want to make many more visits here for any reason I see fit. Lol. This place was WAY better than some other places that will remain nameless *cough cough* Conspiracy *cough cough*. AND it's closer to me! Pppssshhh... I'll be coming back here often.
I used to work down the road and went to happy hour here a few times, but that was a couple of years ago. I only tried some happy hour bites and was always pleased with them. But, the drinks! Oh those drinks. And...the atmosphere and bartenders, they are fabulous! I decided on a whim I needed to bring Eric here for a cocktail one Saturday night. These are what craft cocktails should be like! I remember the first time I came in, when they were knew. I saw how they measured things and how small the glasses are and was disappointed, until I had my first sip! The drinks are amazing, and oh so strong! We've gone to other establishments that offer craft cocktails that taste like flowers topped off with tree bark, not here! These were all delicious, and Eric even went off the menu and asked for the bartender's favorite and it became one of Eric's favorites too! At about 9-10pm the place was packed and there were no empty tables or 2 bar stools together at the bar. We had a great time. Love the atmosphere here and can't wait to go back! The lighting is low, it's like a secret that not everyone knows about but loves once they find out! (If cocktails aren't your thing, there's also beer and wine.)
Great place, great drinks, and even better service! JT and Dustin were welcoming and incredibly friendly! Loved the music and feel of this place, it was just what we were looking for! We stopped in Hartford for one night on our travels and was pleasantly surprised.
Really cool spot for cocktails in Hartford and super hard to find a place like this. Love the dim lighting and exposed brick interior. Good amount of space inside with bar seating and table seating as well. Cocktail list is impressive though most drinks are bourbon or gin based. There are some tequila based drinks but almost none with vodka. That being said they do have a full bar and can make you anything and also their menu changes quite a bit. Drinks were pretty good I must say. They have also small plates for food if interested. Overall def worth a visit if in the area and in the mood for a cocktail. Street parking is available.
A hole in the wall bar with EXCEPTIONAL drinks, service & ambiance. I wish I wasn't writing this review because it should be a hidden secret. But I'm sharing this hidden with you! If you like well made & delicious drinks this is the place for you.
Litte River is a modernly vintage cocktail bar! You walk in and it's entirely a different scene, not the typical vintage where you'd expect a more dated/rustic type of decor but it definitely peaks ur interest to say "mhm, never thought I'd see that in a bar but it's a vibe!" Parking: we went around 11pm on a Thursday night and was able to get street parking, *Hartford street parking meters stop at 6pm on week days and off on the wknds* Love: *Open till 1am during the week *More of an intimate space to chill, can probably fit about 20-30 people comfortably sitting&standing *Drink selections- has something 4 every1, if it's not on the drink menu they'll create it *Live music, not sure if this is the norm but there was a house dj playing *Quick & attentive service Can improve: *having late night bar apps/small plates, kitchen was closed, only bar nuts available
*** 3,400th review *** I'm so glad I finally had the opportunity to check out LRR this past weekend. They had some of the best cocktails I've had in a long time, and the environment was unique and fun without being pretentious. The menu is robust and organized by types of cocktails, including a generic "cocktail" list (though not generic in concoctions, merely called "cocktails"), possets (creamy!), punches, grogs... I opted for the milky ones, and I could not have been happier. I recommend the Baltimore Egg Nog, "Pina Colada," and Bourbon Posset. I could easily drink any of these again. Unfortunately, I found the beer menu a bit uninspiring, but clearly there's no need to explore the beer selection. There's a small bites part of the menu, though no one seemed to be eating during our visit. The one suggestion I would make is to dim the lights a bit and maybe close the curtains. That would give the bar a bit more of a speakeasy vibe. This spot is definitely popular. By the time we left on a Saturday around 10:30p, there were not tables left in the house. I look forward to coming back!
This is a great bar in a great location with great music but the bartender (long hair lady) has a horrible attitude. She was just plain rude! If you can ignore her, it's a great spot to hang with friends. DJ is great and the vibe is good once you're past the rude bartender .
A creative, eclectic cocktail bar in Hartford that is focused on providing inspirational drinks. Awesome, knowledgeable bar staff with superb attention to detail. Classy, quaint, comfortable atmosphere with unique decorations (they have a mannequin with a sequents dress and stuffed Fisher cat LOL) It's off the beaten path in Hartford, but don't let that deter you! Definitely check it out! Try something you've never imagined or have a classic.
One of my favorite hang-out spot that specializes in cocktails. If you are a fan of some good cocktails, you will love this place. Sazerac is my favorite here and definitely the Manhattans too. They don't have a large food menu; just a few appetizers to choose from. Not a big deal for a place where drinks are the focus. There are days when they have food trucks outside, they bring the food to the table. The place does not accommodate a large crowd, so can get crowded pretty fast and noisy too. Parking is on the street. I will definitely recommend this place.
2 years ago
What the heck happened here. Our bartender Dylan was kind and adaptive, but didn't know how to make various cocktails on the menu. We also had to pay him directly via Venmo, but he doesn't own the bar. It also smells kinda like mild-port-o-potty upon first walking inside. We had a few drinks which were fine but I remember this place being more boutique and cool. read more
Came here quick for some pre-dinner drinks! Although, they were offering a grilled cheese and tomato soup so I was tempted to order it! This is a small space with the most welcoming vibe. JT and Dustin were so so kind. The night we came in they did not have a drink menu and it was something like a talk to order thing. JT just asked us what we like and they came up with something. I love giving people free range to use their skills and creativity! Our drinks were made perfectly to our preferred tastes as well as strong! I can't wait to come back here! read more
4 years ago
My sister was showing me around town, this seems to be one of her favorite go to spots. Good Vibes, Good Folks, Cozy Nights read more
Yasss! This place was so good. I'm a cocktail fiend and this was my jam. Before embarking on a weekend trip to CT, I (of course) looked up the best cocktail bars in the area. Little River Restoratives kept coming up on the lists. Reviews were good (thanks, fellow Yelpers!), so I decided to check it out. My brother and I drove straight from Boston to LRR and met our dad there at 6 PM on a Saturday. There were a few other parties - enough people for the place to seem occupied, but not enough to to seem crowded. By the time we left at around 8:30, the place was pretty full. The drink menu was inventive with ingredients that we hadn't seen before. The two bartenders were both nice and attentive. My whole crew (aka "fam") started out with The Gene Hackman which was bourbon, byrhh (what?), china china (what??!) and peychaud's. It was delicious. We didn't know what china china was, so we were given a taste. My brother is even more of a snob than I am, so when I told him I found what looked like a killer cocktail bar to go to in Hartford, he was like "there's no such thing as a good cocktail bar in Hartford *scoff scoff*". After tasting the china china - even before getting a real drink, he mouthed to me that this was the real deal. Yeah, bro! We proceeded to have 3 cocktails each. The bartender made me an off-menu drink that was a heightened daiquiri and it was dee-lish. I then ordered a prickly pear on-menu cocktail and didn't like it. Never having been to LRR before, I quietly called the bartender over and asked him if this was the kind of place where you order and "oh, well" if you don't like it or if they will make you something else you like. He said the latter and proceeded to make me a mean sloe gin fizz. Thank you, sir! That fit the bill. So - yes, there are for sure great cocktail bars in the Hartford area and this qualifies. Food seemed to be snacky - we didn't eat. Parking was easy and free on the street. Next time I'm in town, I'd like to come back here for sure. No re-gerts. read more
2 years ago
It's date night and we already had dinner, but baby wanted to take me somewhere special! She wouldn't tell me where it was, but she surprised me by bringing me here, a place she had told me so much about! Atmosphere/Appearance: Cool, real cool. Like, you gotta know somebody, that knows somebody to get in type of cool. This place is set right on a busy street corner but be careful parking in the back, that lot belongs to the apartments, but there is plenty of fend-for-yourself street parking out front. It was a Saturday night and we didn't have too much trouble finding a spot for her fly ride. Once inside you're immersed by the amazing character of this place. The place is small, but not tiny with a few high top tables and a decent bar rail. There's exposed brick everywhere and unique decor all over. Just be sure to jump on whatever spots at the bar are available or a table if you can find one! Service: EXCELLENT. Kyle was LEGIT. He was smooth, friendly and hooked us up! Well, not with free stuff, but he served us excellent drinks and even made me one of his own personal specialties that wasn't on the menu! Food: B.Y.O.F.! It's like a winery! You can bring your own food right on in since they don't serve much besides hot dogs and something else. We're not here for the food though. We want the drinks! They may come out looking a bit small, but they pack a Mike Tyson punch... not a Floyd Mayweather punch. Lol. This bar isn't regulated so they just do whatever they want and I love it. I had a Doyer's Street to start with and it was so delicious. It was St. Germain, China China, Vermouth and Rye. I couldn't tell you what any of those things were, but I could sip on that all night long. I couldn't even tell you what my 2nd drink was, but it was amazing, literally one of the best drinks I've ever had. It was like a margarita made with gin and a few other fixings, but the bartender wouldn't tell me because it was his secret recipe. Rightfully so! I'd come back and ask for this every time. Value: It's a craft cocktail bar... in Hartford, CT... I'll let you guess how much they costs... yep. You're right. They DO offer a happy hour from 3:00pm to 6:00pm every single day filled with $6.00 wines, beers and cocktails, but drinks run from $9.00 on up to $14.00 depending on their complexity and stuff. Not too bad, but yeah, you can definitely go broke drinking in here. Lol. Come to happy hour. I LOVED this place and want to make many more visits here for any reason I see fit. Lol. This place was WAY better than some other places that will remain nameless *cough cough* Conspiracy *cough cough*. AND it's closer to me! Pppssshhh... I'll be coming back here often. read more
8 years ago
I used to work down the road and went to happy hour here a few times, but that was a couple of years ago. I only tried some happy hour bites and was always pleased with them. But, the drinks! Oh those drinks. And...the atmosphere and bartenders, they are fabulous! I decided on a whim I needed to bring Eric here for a cocktail one Saturday night. These are what craft cocktails should be like! I remember the first time I came in, when they were knew. I saw how they measured things and how small the glasses are and was disappointed, until I had my first sip! The drinks are amazing, and oh so strong! We've gone to other establishments that offer craft cocktails that taste like flowers topped off with tree bark, not here! These were all delicious, and Eric even went off the menu and asked for the bartender's favorite and it became one of Eric's favorites too! At about 9-10pm the place was packed and there were no empty tables or 2 bar stools together at the bar. We had a great time. Love the atmosphere here and can't wait to go back! The lighting is low, it's like a secret that not everyone knows about but loves once they find out! (If cocktails aren't your thing, there's also beer and wine.) read more
3 years ago
Great place, great drinks, and even better service! JT and Dustin were welcoming and incredibly friendly! Loved the music and feel of this place, it was just what we were looking for! We stopped in Hartford for one night on our travels and was pleasantly surprised. read more
Really cool spot for cocktails in Hartford and super hard to find a place like this. Love the dim lighting and exposed brick interior. Good amount of space inside with bar seating and table seating as well. Cocktail list is impressive though most drinks are bourbon or gin based. There are some tequila based drinks but almost none with vodka. That being said they do have a full bar and can make you anything and also their menu changes quite a bit. Drinks were pretty good I must say. They have also small plates for food if interested. Overall def worth a visit if in the area and in the mood for a cocktail. Street parking is available. read more
A hole in the wall bar with EXCEPTIONAL drinks, service & ambiance. I wish I wasn't writing this review because it should be a hidden secret. But I'm sharing this hidden with you! If you like well made & delicious drinks this is the place for you. read more
7 years ago
Litte River is a modernly vintage cocktail bar! You walk in and it's entirely a different scene, not the typical vintage where you'd expect a more dated/rustic type of decor but it definitely peaks ur interest to say "mhm, never thought I'd see that in a bar but it's a vibe!" Parking: we went around 11pm on a Thursday night and was able to get street parking, *Hartford street parking meters stop at 6pm on week days and off on the wknds* Love: *Open till 1am during the week *More of an intimate space to chill, can probably fit about 20-30 people comfortably sitting&standing *Drink selections- has something 4 every1, if it's not on the drink menu they'll create it *Live music, not sure if this is the norm but there was a house dj playing *Quick & attentive service Can improve: *having late night bar apps/small plates, kitchen was closed, only bar nuts available read more
*** 3,400th review *** I'm so glad I finally had the opportunity to check out LRR this past weekend. They had some of the best cocktails I've had in a long time, and the environment was unique and fun without being pretentious. The menu is robust and organized by types of cocktails, including a generic "cocktail" list (though not generic in concoctions, merely called "cocktails"), possets (creamy!), punches, grogs... I opted for the milky ones, and I could not have been happier. I recommend the Baltimore Egg Nog, "Pina Colada," and Bourbon Posset. I could easily drink any of these again. Unfortunately, I found the beer menu a bit uninspiring, but clearly there's no need to explore the beer selection. There's a small bites part of the menu, though no one seemed to be eating during our visit. The one suggestion I would make is to dim the lights a bit and maybe close the curtains. That would give the bar a bit more of a speakeasy vibe. This spot is definitely popular. By the time we left on a Saturday around 10:30p, there were not tables left in the house. I look forward to coming back! read more
This is a great bar in a great location with great music but the bartender (long hair lady) has a horrible attitude. She was just plain rude! If you can ignore her, it's a great spot to hang with friends. DJ is great and the vibe is good once you're past the rude bartender . read more
A creative, eclectic cocktail bar in Hartford that is focused on providing inspirational drinks. Awesome, knowledgeable bar staff with superb attention to detail. Classy, quaint, comfortable atmosphere with unique decorations (they have a mannequin with a sequents dress and stuffed Fisher cat LOL) It's off the beaten path in Hartford, but don't let that deter you! Definitely check it out! Try something you've never imagined or have a classic. read more
One of my favorite hang-out spot that specializes in cocktails. If you are a fan of some good cocktails, you will love this place. Sazerac is my favorite here and definitely the Manhattans too. They don't have a large food menu; just a few appetizers to choose from. Not a big deal for a place where drinks are the focus. There are days when they have food trucks outside, they bring the food to the table. The place does not accommodate a large crowd, so can get crowded pretty fast and noisy too. Parking is on the street. I will definitely recommend this place. read more
4 years ago
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7 years ago
Amazing variety of complex and interesting cocktail recipes. Let Bryce or any of the other mixologists steer you into a new concoction that will blow you away. read more
We had the pleasure of visiting last Friday evening . Little River Restoratives has been on our list for quite some time now. We parked up the street a bit in the state lot which after 6 I believe is free. Was a bit of a snowy walk after the storm and Hartford snow plowing budget is not that great I guess. But once inside it's a small cozy space. Bricked lined old school feel. Little River main emphasis is totally in the hand crafted cocktails. Lots of love and effort into each one. These are the types you would not generally have all the ingredients at home to make. There is a small food pairing menu, that works well with these drinks. We choose a cheese board . It had 3 types of cheese , crackers a jam and some of their home made pickles , which were delicious. I ordered 3 different of their delicious cocktails during our visit. The first was called Trefoil Highball which had gin , raspberry, lemon , soda and egg white. It's was very good and light tasting. The second one I tried was the Stone Fence. It had rum, ginger , hard cider and nutmeg. Also well done , a little stronger tasting. I forgot what my 3 drink was , but from what I remember also good. Definitely will return to this cool little spot in Hartford and probably try their ramen spot next door also. read more
At 11pm last Friday, I drove straight from Bradley Airport to Little River Restorative because I knew the cocktails would be that damn good. Sure, I hadn't been home in two weeks and bounced around from Iceland to Tennessee to San Diego. But, at the moment, I was on West Coast time (the 11pm was merely 8pm in my mind) and it was as good an excuse as any to head out for a drink. Little River Restorative resides in La Paloma Sabanera's former space, which has been renovated to perfection with exposed brick, gorgeous lighting, and quirky details along the way. Beyond the fact that this is an exquisite speakeasy-style bar supported by some of the best mixologists in the state, even if you don't know any background the cocktails still speak for themselves. Sure, it helps that I walked in and saw about 15 people I love right off the bat. Hartford's got a good crowd that way. But the drinks kept me there later than anticipated - and will keep me coming back time and time again. Kicking things off, I had a particularly potent gin cocktail with grapefruit and lime followed by a tasty rum elixir (The Zilla Swizzle with Trinidad rum, cassis, orgeat, cane sugar, lime & pineapple....bright flavors but not in the tropical, beachy, cloyingly sweet way that usually makes me skeptical of rum cocktails). I haven't eaten here yet but have only heard good things about the charcuterie plate and other small plates. Bottom line - I'll be back, and soon. The extensive cocktail list deserves some further exploration! read more
I was excited to see a new establishment of this kind of open in Hartford. Walking in, I had high hopes and an absurd amount of excitement. That immediately went down the drain with the poor treatment I had received. I stopped in on a Friday night around 7pm. It was busy, but not packed. I was able to find a seat at the bar where it took almost 5 minutes after I sat down to have someone greet me. Mind you, there were three bartenders behind the bar. I placed my order for a cocktail and then proceeded to move to a table shortly after. My server was pleasant and took my food order. After waiting almost twenty minutes for my drink, I mentioned to my server that I had been waiting an unreasonable amount of time and it bothered me. I tried conjuring up different reasons to justify my unacceptable wait time. The bar was not packed and there were only a few tables with a handful of patrons at each. There was no valid reason as to why it should have taken that long to make my drink. My food order that I had placed ten minutes later arrived before my drink. That was a first to me and it was quite impressive. My initial server had decided to send over someone else because she didn't want to deal with me post my expression of concern. I didn't think it was very professional that they proceeded to point at my table and whisper like adolescents to one another. I ask for the check and when paid, the server asked if I would come back again. I was forth-coming and said "no". She then ask for my reasoning and I explained my case. I am understanding in the fact that it was only their third week open and there were details in the fabric that needed to be worked out. I get that. I didn't receive an apology and was treated like a second class citizen, it was terrible. The bartenders were pompous and only seemed to be caught up in their sham of a Brooklyn-esk lifestyle in Hartford, Connecticut. They were more concerned with serving their friends than paying attention to the real customers. The poor service and lack of sincerity is what lead me to leave a review of this kind. Despite my ill treatment, the place is not a complete flop. Walking in, I felt like I was somewhere in Williamsburg or Park Slope, Brooklyn. The interior is warm and inviting. The exposed brick and choice of decorations is fitting to the theme. I wish my first time would have been a hit like I wanted it to be. I reached out to the owner via Twitter and expressed my concern. Once again, I got a cold, non-responsive reply. Clearly, there is such a large backing for this establishment, the customer doesn't matter. The location is terrible and the parking is close to nothing (nothing that is safe). Little River sticks out like a sore thumb in that neighborhood. It's on the end of a strip of low-income housing and struggling businesses. Only time will tell the success. The cocktail menu is exceptional with a variety offerings. The different offerings are not only delicious, but they are esthetically pleasing. I upped my star rating by a star. After having my review plastered on social media, like I'm the one that caused my poor service. read more
After a handful of visits, Little River Restoratives is one of my new favorite hang-out spots. I like that the max occupancy is roughly 40-50 people. I like that there isn't a large food menu and just a handful of small plates. What I adore most though is the attention to detail when it comes to drink-making. Whether it be making classic renditions like the Manhattan or the Sazerac or creating new twists on vintage drinks -- I dig it. Food is limited, think more along the line of snacks. Plates like spiced nuts, house pickles, deviled eggs, cheese/charcuterie plates, or the grilled cheese and tomato soup are some options Street parking only, opt for spots on Putnam or Babcock Street. Mondays at 8pm is also vinyl night. Local guest DJs come spin and the drinks are cheaper: $3 beers and $5 wines and/or punches! read more
A few hours before my 30th birthday, I found myself in Downtown Hartford. I was with a group of my younger friends from an adult kickball league and they were having a good ole' time. I however was bored stiff and dumbfounded as to why they were so thrilled with the bar/ club we were at??? It was overcrowded, the drinks were "meh", and the music was too loud to have a conversation. Around 11:15 I left. I wasn't done for the night. In just 45 minutes, I'd be turning the big Three-Oh! I headed to Little River Restoratives as I heard it was a interesting place from a few different people. I got there around 11:30 and while busy, it was sane and swanky. I sat down in the front corner of the bar. It had a chill atmosphere and was a true cocktail bar. My best description is- Ever been to the cool speakeasy-style cocktail bars in NYC? Their drinks are expertly crafted and ultra delicious. Their bartenders really know their stuff and deliver a unique drinking experience. They offer quality over quantity. And, the speakeasy theme is a nice touch, that harkens back to the prohibition era. " LRR is similar, but minus the Speakeasy novelty. (Hey, at least the bar is easy to find and has an actual front door, lol). I ordered a gin drink the way I drink gin. My drink wasn't even on the menu. Its light and refreshing, tropical but not with citrus undertones and uber-dry. I liked it so much I ordered a second one. I guess the bar's owner heard it was my b-day and offered me a 30th bday shot (Thanks Chris). When the clock struck 12, I turned 30, had a nice bday "present" and headed home. Since then, I've been back twice. The second time I played "stump the bartender" and was impressed with my drink- a PB&J creation of cognac, frangelico, grape (something), and egg whites. I was back a third time and started trying drinks that were actually on the menu and was very impressed, as was my friend. Their prices also average $10-$12 a drink, which is more than reasonable, especially for this style of bar. Each time I've been by, I've been treated very well and my booze has been stellar. Extra points for good, friendly service and relaxed vibe inside the bar :). I'm extremely confident in saying that LRR is the best cocktail bar in the Greater Hartford area. It's not quite as good as some of the top NYC cocktail bars/ speakeasies, but for Hartford, (Pardon this old, grade-school expression), "This place is the bomb, yo"! I'm impressed. Thanks for making my 30th birthday special and for giving me a reason to come to Hartford =) 4.5 stars. read more
11 years ago
I'm just a step away from 4 stars on this one! Can I give it 3.5? First of all, loved the ambience and vibe in this place. It's quaint and cozy with just the right amount of lighting. The menu is adorable with it's perfectly designed pages that match the restaurant's logo. At 8:30 pm on a Saturday night, the bar was full and there was only one table available. The table service was very good- I am not sure how she kept up because by 11:00 pm it was standing room only. The drinks were very tasty. I like the theme of a vintage cocktail bar, but I wanted a little more to offer in terms of hand crafted cocktails. A few more choices with muddled fruit or better yet, pureed berries in some of the drink choices would be delightful! There was sparkling wine but we had to ask- it was not on the menu. I would love to see some champagne cocktails offered, but we were able to ask for a drink from the menu to be topped with sparkling wine. We loved all of the food... we ordered the charcuterie plate with delicious cheeses and meats. We also ordered some asian noodles that were served adorably in a chinese to go container. The BLT sliders had very fresh, thick cut bacon. There were 2 downsides to the food. 1) not enough choices. I think a couple more small plate offerings would be great, and a salad option. 2) the plateware. Our tiny plates were what appeared to be a disposable/recyclable bamboo or thin wood, and we were given teeny tiny paper pitchforks to eat with. In contrast, the drinks were served in very classy vintage-looking gold rimmed glasses. Some came with metal straws that had spoons on the other end. Even the toothpicks were medal and we loved that presentation! We think the dishware should also be as pristine. We will definitely be back and hope to try a few different types of cocktails. I am anxious to sit at the bar and watch the bartenders in action. read more
Do you want a place where the bartender really knows what she's doing? Then check out Little River Restoratives. Tucked nicely and slightly out of sight in Hartford, LRR is the cocktail bar you need to find and go to. Without a doubt, you will definitely find something at LRR as it has an extensive menu of every form of beverage you could think of, from basic light cocktails to creamy and spicy cocktails. Add a talented and knowledgable bartender, and you have the perfect concoction. Though I was not able to find something I would keep drinking or order again, I appreciate the many tastes and flavors offered. Of note was the bartender. She was outstanding!! She made my experience at LRR very memorable and one that will have me back to try again and find the perfect cocktail for me. I absolutely love the feel of LRR. The atmosphere is very comfortable and welcoming, set mostly by the bartender. It has unique decor that make it interesting and upscale. With exposed brick and a shiny wood bar along with every beverage imaginable and light bites to go with them, LRR is the perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail with friends. Be adventurous and try it out!! Based on my take of the bartender's talent and knowledge, this is the place to try cocktails!! read more
8 years ago
8 years ago
11 years ago
You walk into this place, and the vibe is warm and inviting. Servers hang your coats for you. The menu is a binder of wonder, filled with creative and classic cocktails. I recommend asking a server what you should have to drink, they'll ask more about what you like and want, and suggest a perfect solution. When it arrives in its perfectly hipster yet classic Glass, you'll be impressed by the presentation alone, with the metal garnish skewers. Then, you'll take a sip and you'll taste greatness. I ordered the Gershwin, which was awesome, but tasted some of my friends drinks. Each one was delightful. We only stayed for a brief drink before moving onto dinner elsewhere. Had I known it's awesomeness, I would have made for more time there. Not ideal for a big crowd of people, but awesome for a drink with an intimate group. Didn't stay fit for, but excited to try for happy hour from 3-6! I will definitely be back! read more
11 years ago
Small place tucked in the corner with lot of cocktail options with friendly atmosphere. Bar tender was able make a drink I requested with thyme, honey, lime and borboun try it really good. I had portabelly flat bread which was nice but tiramisu was not really house made it was bought from a super market and surveyed on a fancy platter. read more
11 years ago
I'm going to admit this...I am a booze snob. I want great ingredients, great bartenders, and it's helpful if the atmosphere is cool. This place exceeded any expectation I had. The booze is great. Skilled bartenders and friendly. I have to come here for work but I live in the Bay area and cover the PacNW, this place stands up to any bar in my territory. Locals don't be scared by the surroundings. It's warm and friendly and low key in here. Oh and they serve grilled cheese and tomato soup so that's all good. Shout out to Alexa, John and Kristen highly informed, creative and friendly bartenders. Thank you read more
3 years ago
8 years ago
Look at this gorgeous Whiskey Sour (pic attached)! This Happy Hour special was like a boozy little valentine! Proper cocktails are as stiff and scrumptious as they are beautiful. It's worth noting that I would not say food is their strength exactly...even still, I was pretty hungry and they had these little HH snack menu(s) on the bar. When I attempted to order, however, bartender passed along that the kitchen doesn't open until 6...which is precisely when their other menu said HH concludes? Confusing, but I happily refocused on my liquid dinner instead. Little River remains top of my short list for the impressive cocktails they consistently delight us with. read more
8 years ago
8 years ago
Drinks were delicious and different. I was bummed our bartender was new and so he didn't know the drinks pictured on yelp. The place is very trendy inside with good decor. The DJ was playing some great 80s stuff, but the crowd wasn't feeling it. The location didn't seem like the best part of town though. read more
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More info about Little River Restoratives
405 Capitol Ave
Hartford, CT 06106
Frog Hollow
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(860) 403-0340
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