I hate a QR code menu, but I'll make an exception for Locale. Because Locale is the best. Don't…read morebelieve me?
Reasons Why Locale Is The Best:
1. It's ranked #22 on the World's Best Bars list, so it's not just me telling you this. Well, I suppose it's only the 22nd best, but out of the world? That's still the best in my book.
2. They brought us free drinks with our drinks. There was a little starter Americano right when we sat down, and then a little goodbye shot when we left. I like free drinks. (The actual drinks will run you 20 euro apiece, which is pricey for Florence, but not the most expensive we encountered...and basically average for NYC.)
3. They brought us free snacks with our drinks. Little pickled veggies, and some delightfully spiced nuts. Deez nuts are quite tasty.
4. The service is so eager to please (see all the aforementioned lagniappe). They filled my water up 37 times and I was only there for 45 minutes. They cobbled together seating for our 8-person party in about 5 minutes, despite being busy. And everyone was exceptionally nice, with the slight exception of the stunning hostess, who I don't think has the ability to smile.
5. The space is bright and airy, with living walls and a retractable roof that brings in fresh air when the weather is nice, and closes up when it gets too cool in the evening.
6. I mentioned the menu, and how I generally despise a QR code...but theirs is hilarious, and thoughtful, and entertaining. The cocktails, in addition to being interesting and well-balanced and delicious, are all accompanied by a hand gesture, as Italians are wont to make.
7. The bartender is doing the most. Stirring many cocktails at once, throwing that bloody mary concoction back and forth in his shaker...I'm not sure if it does anything, but it was amongst the best bloodies I've ever had. So kudos to him.
8. Everything here is done with intention. The coasters, the business cards (that have the QR codes), the snacks, the cocktails. And everything is better when it's done with intention.
Eight is enough, or so sitcom titles would have me believe.