Ward Eight was a place we frequently visited when we lived nearby many years ago. We were in the area recently and decided to stop by...we discovered this gem from our past has only gotten better! High quality and innovative cocktails, reasonable prices, and a chic/classy ambiance make Ward Eight must-visit! I tried two cocktails when I was at Ward 8: Remember the Main and Vieux Carre. Both were decadent, delicious, and boozy. Triple threats! I loved them both, but the "Remember the Main" was different from drinks I've had before, so that was my favorite. My husband had a local beer. They have beer, wine, and NA options for folks who aren't into cocktails. They also have food which looks scrumptious, ranging from high-end appetizers to full meals. We did not come prepared to eat, so we'll have to come back again to try food in the future! The staff were welcoming and professional. The space was clean and Gatsby-style chic. There is plenty of seating and an outdoor space for when it is warmer. It is a fancier places, so prices are higher. But you pay for the higher quality ingredients and innovative recipes. If you enjoy cocktails and cozy cocktail bars, Ward Eight is definitely the spot for you! read more

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Note: this is *barely* three stars. The first time I wanted to check out Ward Eight, I found a sign on the door that they were closed. It was written in Sharpie, stating they were closed for fall recess, and will return on X date. There was no notice on the website or otherwise. Such boorishness must be earned, I thought, and this place should be phenomenal! Unfortunately, the experience was overall lackluster. I ordered The Ward Eight House Shot, Rabbit Tale [sic], and the Classic Smash Burger from the Ben & Jake's supper club menu. The Ward Eight House Shot was interesting. This one was the most Angostura I'd had in one go outside of Best Intentions (Logan Square bar). A respectable shot and a good way to start or end an evening, however, $10 feels a little steep. As for the Rabbit Tale, the undoing of this one was the menu. This drink was described as "Zesty, Spicy, and Smokey [sic]". While not bland, it felt as though the volume on all of these was turned down to the level of a whisper. These hadn't just 'quiet quit,' they are halfway through week two of a two-week notice. To its credit, the drink was smooth, and while it didn't taste spirit-forward, the alcohol did hit me as one would hope for on a Friday night, thus no complaints about strength. Then there was the matter of food. The smashburger I ordered ended up being thoroughly unremarkable. The patty was not the greatest thing in the world, lacking those crisp edges that make an excellent smashburger, but otherwise passable. That was, untquietil I added the LTO served on the side (for some reason). After adding these in, the burger quickly fell apart, becoming a dégustation on the plate. Other than the house shot, and a small $15 burger without fries, I felt as though their prices were reasonable. Mixed drinks near the city, and not in a divey 'old-man bar' for $15 are relatively hard to find. When it comes to the service, I regretfully have to ding them a bit. Considering how quiet the bar was at the time, it took longer to get my drink than I would have expected. In a similar vein, the service felt a little disorganized, where the bar staff wasn't quite working as a team. Case in point: one bartender excused herself to step away, and the other did not step in to take my order for those five to ten minutes. Final verdict: I do appreciate reasonably priced cocktails, but the menu descriptions need to be taken with a grain of salt. As for food, I am willing to write off disappointment to the popup, and am not against trying something from their menu. All this said, I'd love to give them another chance, but I am also not in a rush to return. read more

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Cocktail was neither worst nor the best rendition of a Vieux carre that I've had. I've said it several times that many things that originate in New Orleans are hard to replicate outside New f the big easy. I got the feeling that the staff were putting some effort into their craft. The place was crowded & there was even a live band performing. The bar had some above average bottles such as Hibiki & Bookers. I was pressed for time but there were at least three more menu items I would've tried. read more

Ward Eight - Vieux carre - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Are you kidding me???? You literally almost miss this spot and it's SO good! Finding well crafted cocktails in this area is almost nonexistent but they do it so well. It's almost like a small little speakeasy vibe with not that many seats but they can make anything you ask! We did a traditional aviation and Hemingway daiquiri to start and knew right away every single drink was going to be fantastic. So good, we even went back the next day! Highly recommend and I will be back, an embarrassingly large amount of times! read more

Ward Eight - Rabbit Tale to the right - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

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Very cool space with a great summer patio. Fantastic cocktail made right with quality ingredients and knowledgeable bartenders. Chris cooking up special appetizers and meals. Lots of BBQ last summer too. #support local read more

Ward Eight - "The Understudy" cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

My husband and I decided to check out this place while we were in the area. Ward Eight is located on the border of Evanston and Chicago. There is not a parking lot, but there is plenty of street parking nearby if you are driving here. There are bar seats and tables around. This place wouldn't be ideal with a large group. A max of 4 or 5 people would work ok in this setting. To drink, we had the Clarified Ruby Milk Punch and Sazerac. The Clarified Ruby Milk Punch uses Arrack as the main spirit in this drink and it worked well with the other ingredients. They also use Arrack in at least 1 other cocktail on the menu. I rarely see Arrack cocktails on the menu's of other places in the Chicago area and I think most people don't know what Arrack is. I love that Ward Eight is introducing more people to this spirit. The Sazerac was really delicious. Unfortunately, we didn't have a positive experience with the food here. We ordered the seasonal deviled eggs and the smoked walleye. I believe the deviled eggs were pickled in beets. The texture of the eggs was tough. I expected the smoked walleye to be a little on the salty side, but this was too much. It felt like we were eating a bowl of kosher salt and we were only able to get through a 1/4 of it. I'm not sure if our food experience here was a fluke or not, but I probably would pass next time. The cocktails are the stars of the show and worth trying. read more

Incredibly friendly staff with fabulous drinks! The service was amazing, and the vibe is immaculate. Didn't get a picture, but the fries were delicious, and the staff accommodated a vegan member of our group by preparing all the topics of one of our orders of fries on the side. Thank you, Ward Eight! read more

Ward Eight - Dealer's choice - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Your mixology and ambiance are amazing. Small enough for intimate conversations and for small gatherings.

A friend told me this is their favorite place for cocktails and they have never tried a bad one here, and they were not wrong! Located next to the delicious Peckish Pig, you will find this very stylish and hip hang out spot. I would agree with another review that this has a "dark sexy atmosphere." I got the "Hemmingway" which was white rum, lime, grapefruit with marachino liquor. It was indeed "bright, tarte and refreshing" as they said! I love how they provide the descriptions. If you're not sure of what you want, you can request that they make something for you. read more

Great place for a drink and food. Great service. Very chill atmosphere, not a loud place. Perfect for having conversations. Can get crowded after 9 but still worth the visit read more

Ward Eight - Taylor Small Batch whiskey - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Ahoy! My noble bourbon boozers, I have found a suburban whiskey outpost worthy of your late night travels. For many moons I have heard rumors of the superior bourbon booty to be uncovered at Ward Eight, and finally I beached my cocktailing cutlass upon its shores. Tis a worthy stop. Classic cocktails are the name of the game here. From the ancient leather bound tome I selected a Baton Rouge (cognac and rum) and a Vieux Carre (rye and cognac). Both were superb. There are also gin cocktails and rum punch. Arrgh! If you are craving whiskey straight, there is an extensive arrays of bourbons and ryes on display behind the bar. The crowd is chill and keeps to themselves - curl up in a corner booth or head to the back patio and savor your booze under the starry skies. read more

Howard street is a tale of two cities : Chicago and Evanston. Evanston has done more to support interesting businesses. We heard about this place on Nextdoor. We arrived when the bar opened and nobody was there - not even the bartender. We waited and finally they arrived. Their cocktails have all the classics and a small micro brew list. We ordered the cheese plate, roasted carrots and onion soup. The cook served us and explained what we were getting. The food was gastropub. This place is good and next to another good place, The Peckish Pig. This place is very small, fun and dark. read more

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Great drinks but the prices seem jacked. Curious seating arrangement with no high-tops just the bar and booths. This makes it more restaurant-like when it's a cocktail bar. The city helped pay for this place so maybe that's why it's weird read more

It feels like a hidden gem that's right off the Howard red line stop. We came here for a friend's birthday, and they had reserved a table and part of the bar for us. The reserve signs were personalized to wish my friend a happy birthday. I'm filing this bar into my list of dimly-lit date night spots. The ambiance is quite romantic with dim lights around the bar. There are tables that range from two to six seats. I also like the art on the wall and restroom. The restroom was pretty clean. The charcuterie board was pretty good for $30 and comes with bread and accompaniments. It would pair well with a nice glass of wine. The service was great. The bartenders were knowledgeable and friendly. One guest from our party listed ingredients that she wanted in a drink, and the bartender worked his magic to serve a delicious cocktail. read more

I've been peeking my head in here as often as once a year. I have friends that live in the area and happy hour around these parts. Drinks are carefully crafted with decent pours and the mood is quiet enough that one can enjoy the silence working on their laptop or have an uninterrupted chat with a blind date. It's the combination of high prices & sleepy mood I'm not jumping for joy over. There are spots in higher rent areas of Chicago that charge $8-$10 per cocktail and if this were their pricing, I might have more than one. I'll tell ya, I like craft cocktails and a speakeasy vibe too but it's way too laid back. It's sleepy and that constant mood is a downer for my nights out. If I were heading back from Evanston and needed a "last call" I might dip my head in. Though usually, I'd last call at the Mark. read more

*Updated to include food* Ward 8. I've heard about this place for years but finally decided to venture out and try it last night. The location is accessible for far northsiders and people from Evanston on Howard next-door to the Peckish Pig. Ambiance: Dark, moody interior (think like a dive bar inherited by a kid who decided to make a mean cocktail bar-- they painted and elevated the space but still the undercurrent of the original dive). Sitting at the bar right in front of the bartender while making his drinks was a joy. he was focused, precise, and detail-oriented, which are the qualities you want from someone making you a well-crafted cocktail. Service: Service was top-notch. Ward 8 is a cocktail bar, but the guy didn't blink an eye at the person next to me wanting a vodka and tonic. The real kicker for the service was when I said, "I drink old-fashioned, but what would you recommend for someone who loves an old-fashioned but wants something different?" The bartender's eyes lit up, and he told me the history of his recommended drink: Vieux Carre. The drinks: My drink was outstanding. Honestly, I had no idea what to expect, but it was delicious. It's my new go-to drink when it's available. A few weeks ago I ordered... uhh basically all the food on the menu (including the specials). I really loved their devil eggs but I know deviled eggs aren't for everyone. The elotes barrel smoked are delicious, flavorful, and just hit the spot. Chris Bart the chef knows how to smoke meat which is, honestly, somewhat rare in Chicago-- the smoked brisket tacos are a smoked flavor-forward version of a popular Austin street food. And the specials? I've had 4 in the last few weeks and they have all been delicious- mussels, and shrimp & grits. It's amazing how much great food he can pump out of that tiny little kitchen. read more

Well stocked bar with tasty house specialty cocktails and friendly servers. Space is sophisticated but not pretentious.

Outstanding cocktails in a very intimate space with cozy atmosphere. The food is quite good, especially the steak. I'm begging you to stock ketchup for the fries! read more

Intimate bar and great cocktails. I went there for an event and absolutely loved the vibe. The bartender accommodated my request of switching a drink up and was really friendly. We had tacos, cheese board and Parmesan fries all really delicious. I would recommend stopping here for a date night or catching up with friends read more

Been coming here since the first week they opened. Arrived tonight a few minutes before 10 PM because I really wanted a great cocktail, and my husband wanted a beer. Upon arrival, we sat at a table and the bartender came over with water and he tells us that it's not a busy night so the bar was closed and we can only order beer and wine. I gave up on getting an excellent cocktail and my husband headed to the bar to order a beer and a glass of wine. I probably would have ordered a snack too. Upon saddling up to the bar, he was told to hurry up with his order. We gave up and left. Never ever been treated this way at Ward Eight before. Been there later than this. Always had good service and great cocktails. We miss Cody always but because they kept things reliable, we kept coming back. This night was very disappointing. Not sure what to make of it. read more

This is truly an amazing little gem on Howard street - tucked in next to Peckish Pig, it's got just the right vibe for late night drinks, with the added bonus of having a little "backyard" space if you walk all the way through! It's definitely got sort of an elevated dive bar/speakeasy feel to it! The owners are absolutely the nicest, and the craft cocktails are amazing - I've never once had one that I didn't love. My favorite is their take on the Bees Knees, and hubby LOVES the Hemingway Daiquiri. Highly recommended! Take note that they're only open Wednesday - Saturday, and their closing times are a little fluid stop in, you won't be disappointed read more

Ward eight is probably the only legitimate cocktail bar in the evanston area and I am obsessed. It's dark and vibey and always seems busy - probably because the drinks are awesome. I got a green chartreuse cocktail with gin (Last Word) and would absolutely get again! read more

Ward Eight - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Great drinks and small bites. Place is never too loud and plenty of elbow room. Bartenders rock too

I didn't realize how close this gem of a bar was to where I live, just between Howard and Jarvis stop! As soon as we entered the friendly bartender greeted us and brought us water. It was a Wednesday evening and they had a couple specials for food. Though the portions were smaller it was very high quality food, especially relative to regular bar food. I especially enjoyed the gnocchi! I will definitely be back for drinks and a snack. read more

Ward Eight - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

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My new favorite bar in Evanston. It's kind of hard to find this place, since they don't have a sign or # on their door. It's very dimly-lit and quiet inside, creating a warm, romantic ambience. You could come here for a date, or with a group of friends (most of the crowd there this past Saturday night). All the cocktails I tried were amazing. I asked the server for a recommendation if I typically like a whiskey base, and she suggested the Artist's Special (bourbon, sherry, lemon, groseille red currants). It was SO delicious - It had a very sweet and fruity aftertaste, and I'm always a fan of strong drinks that don't taste strong! For my second drink, I asked the bartender to create something similar to the Artist's Special, and I ended up liking that one even more. Meanwhile, my two guy friends each ordered the "Dark & Stormy," which was also delicious! For food, we sampled the Cheese & Charcuterie Plate - though I felt that it was a bit pricey for the amount of food we received, everything was extremely delicious. The meats were fresh & the ginger figs paired so well with the cheeses! Also, I thought they could've given a bit more bread, because we ended up with more cheese & meat leftover after we'd already finished the bread. Overall, although the food was a tad pricey, the delicious cocktails and amazing service more than made up for it. The owner and bartender really treated us like valued guests, conversing with us and asking to take a photo with us at the end of the night! I really loved my overall experience here, and I will be back often, as well as Peckish Pig (same owner as Ward Eight) when it opens! read more

Ward Eight - Artist's Special - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

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Eh, I just don't know. They're super tiny, super overcrowded, and bustling with business. The owners are young awesome folks, and I definitely wish them the best. Food itself was pretty awesome, and the drinks were too. Those deserve a 5 star. Food was also really expensive. However, the seating availability is nonexistent and it's so noisy that you simply cannot hear anyone in any fashion. Literally impossible without screaming, even to someone sitting a foot away from you. Which, considering our plan was to grab drinks and discuss our book club book, was pretty irritating. I actually gave up about halfway through because it was just that hard to hear folks, and I'm not talking about because of my hearing aids. Sorry Ward 8, but you're Ward 1 for me - as in, I'm going here this one time, and probably never again. read more

Ward Eight - Sammich! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

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I've been dying to visit Ward 8 for a while. What could be more perfect than a new, hip, highly-rated lounge close to Howard station?! Not too far from Evanston, but far enough so it was a nice change of environment. Came with a friend, and we each ordered two drinks and shared an artisan cheese platter and a charcuterie platter as well. Drinks: 4.5/5 - Mexican firing squad: tequila, habanero, citrus undertones (and other things I cannot remember). Took a couple sips to initially get used to the flavor, but the spiciness of the drink made it fun and very unique. Enjoyed it very much. - Fish house punch: Jamaican rum based, fruity and summery. Typical girly drink that I enjoy. They powdered it with some spices on top (my friend thought nutmeg?), and there was also some finely crushed ice. Great flavors. Food: 3.5/5 Thought it was a bit overpriced for the amount they give you. Also wished they gave out more bread for both the cheese and charcuterie plates. Ran out for both platters, and when I asked for more bread for the cheese, they said I had bread coming with the charcuterie plate, so didn't get any (they weren't rude about it, but still). I also wish I had some choices for the cheese platter - I'm used to having a list of different cheeses and getting to choose from there. Only saying this because I only really enjoyed 1 of the 3 that they gave me. Charcuterie plate was good but nothing particularly amazing. Overall a great experience. Can be pricey (2 drinks per person = 4 total, plus the two platters = $70 pre tip). But worth the occasional visit for sure. Great drinks and great atmosphere. Will be back (actually am going again in a few days!) read more

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The best place for a memorable experience for a date or out with friends. Stop by on your own and strike up a conversation in this charming spot. The care and perfection with which Ward 8 creates and presents it's food and cocktails is second to none. It's a delight. read more

If you are looking for an intimate place for a cocktail, Ward Eight is stellar. Have been there a number of times and the cocktails are always devine. They have unique offerings as well as more traditional offerings. I had an Artist cocktail that was a gin drink with a variety of unique components. Extremely refreshing and delicious. Their Perfect Manhattan's are not the only drink they make that is perfect. Their Old Fashions are outstanding. And now they offer food. I had their smoked meat platter and it was out-of-this world. I was there on Saturday for a fundraiser for KOR Productions, a female owned opera company. A very fun time. There was a little rain that forced us from the outdoor patio, but it didn't dampen our spirits. They (the spirits, and yes, it is an attempt at a pun) were ably provided by Jeremy, whose open personality, friendly smile and engaging laugh make visiting Ward Eight a pleasure. Can't recommend it enough. read more

We attended a special event yesterday for KOR at Ward Eight. A perfect location for a fundraiser. Ward Eight is a neighborhood bar and meeting place. A great indoor and outdoor venue and the staff attended to our every need. What was completely amazing were the drinks by owner and bartender extraordinaire, Jeremy. Everyone was blown away by this creations. Then came the next surprise, the remarkable and memorable appetizers made by Chris. Smoked bangers, crispy ends and melt-in-your mouth pork belly with side sauces, and cheese. WOW. We ordered two more platters. Someone ordered the Bourbon chocolate chip cookies that were more like muffins. We all died and went to heaven. Ward Eight is deserving of 5 stars. A wonderful and fun location with a great staff, amazing appetizers and outstanding drinks. I'll definitely do a return visit. Thank you everyone at Ward Eight for a fun Saturday!! read more

Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world that I have walked into in my long life, this one is my favorite. Nothing equals Cody's attention to his craft and to his customers. The curbside setup through the plague months has been wonderful. Easy to order and pick up. Cool labels, delicious drinks. read more

Ward Eight - All my favorites: Louisiana Sampler & the Dead Meadow. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Great service and very cool space. Hidden gem on Howard. Try the white Negroni. Pumpkin seed brittle was really good

My friend and I walked into Ward Eight on a Thursday night a little after 8pm, and it wasn't too crowded. It's a seat-yourself system, so we got a table and ordered us some cocktails. Ordering is done at the bar even if you're sitting at a table. My friend, a bourbon lover, got an Old Fashioned, and I, a gin lover, got the Last Word. The cocktails were awesome, and also pretty strong, which I liked. The atmosphere is pretty chill, not extremely classy, which I also liked. It's a good hangout place, and I had a good time drinking and conversing with my friend. It's also a very popular place, and people started milling in shortly after we seated ourselves and formed a crowd around the bar. I had to talk pretty loudly to get over the background noise from the crowd; not a problem for me, but it might be a little difficult to be intimate with your company depending on what time/day you're here. read more

Ward Eight - Old Fashioned & Last Word - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

The opitimy of a neighborhood cocktail bar with the skills of a downtown craft cocktail spot! When I walked in a folksy local band was playing, very dimly lit, small space with amazing portraits on the wall. You'll find that it's a seat yourself system.with a twist. You order at the bar but they bring you the food and drinks. The menu contains a plethora of whiskey/bourbon based drinks, more than the usual and just what I love. The New Orleans inspired name of course is followed up by a good Sazerac on the menu. I had the Lions tail, Brooklyn and old fashioned...all of which was rich and delicious. The food was spot on and hit the spot. Eventhough it's a small food menu, you'll find plenty to fill yourself up. Truly feels like your having a drink in the eighth ward...good vibes, good drinks, great spot in Evanston! read more

Ward Eight - The Brooklyn. Plenty of Bourbon/whiskey drinks to choose from - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

These guys are true craftsmen. From cocktails to smoked meat. Love this joint. Low key atmosphere, great service and awesome food.

A+++ cocktails and food. Definitely try their old fashioned and signature cheese platter. Everything is high class and so tasty. read more

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If you're not ordering any of their food, you're missing out. Impeccable service and thoughtfully constructed dishes (and cocktails, obviously). We were so lucky to have found this lovely spot! I've been struggling to find a new go-to spot since moving from San Francisco, but this is what I've been looking for :) We'll definitely be back! read more

Best service, crafty cocktails but not too bizarre and dark sexy atmosphere make this place one of my favorite spots to hang out. Bartenders are so inventive, friendly and cool that an evening there is a pleasure. read more

Friendly intimate atmosphere, small inventive plates, superb mixologists- Ward Eight is a great find on Howard Street in Evanston. I like Rye and orange peel. The Brooklyn here mixes both into a fabulous drink on the rocks. A superb (but small) selection of Ryes can be enjoyed here, and a few of the Specials for the night were Rye-based. The mixologists here know their stuff, and I can't wait to get back to try more specialty cocktails. I also enjoyed Restless Years by Evanston's own, Temperance Beer Company, and it was a nice balanced, not too hoppy beer. Joining Daphne L. and husband here, we all shared the Brussels Sprouts, Bacon-wrapped dates, and a mashed potato and crostini dish. All were great, and the staff were very nice and helpful. This place is small, and has limited hours, but it won't take you long to get warmed up after a mixed drink or Rye neat, here. Make the short trek to Evanston! The City line is just imaginary. read more

I rarely, if ever, rely upon server or bartender recommendations regarding their establishment's offerings. It's not about trusting their palettes. It's about knowing mine. It's about them knowing their food, their drinks, the nuances, the a-ha moments. Being knowledgeable enough about the craft to strike out and just create. For two evenings, I have trusted my WE bartenders to guide my drinking experience. The first evening involved an incredibly pungent yet accessible selection of cheeses...and my frittering through cocktails and finding few which could stand up to the levels of smoke present in the cheese charcuterie. Granted, part of the issue was that I could not eat bread, which would have considerably cut the sharp aspects of the cheeses. More on their substitutions later. But upon hearing my request for a drink which could balance my gluten-free cheese plate? An off-the-menu drink was mentioned. I was already sold on the description of flavor interactions, as the provided summary proved that this place was not kidding. They understand the symphony that food can create with libations, assuming a proficient conductor. The Creole Cocktail was lightly sweet enough to balance the earthiness of the cheese, but darkly acrid enough to be worthy of this particular cheese offering. I've had this cocktail before at other places. This one was mixed for my meal. Tonight, I was in a festive mood and ordered the eggnog. Given that the raw egg (many kudos for a traditional preparation) likely wouldn't mix well with most drinks, I asked the bartender which drink likely would. There was a mention of a cocktail with egg whites and homemade hibiscus powder. Let me restate this. He took hibiscus petals and created a powder. Of his own volition. At a place in the North-ish Shore. I digress. So my drink was a variation of a Pisco Sour, but spicier. I didn't realize the extent until I saw a small dish. With a cinnamon stick. Set aflame. With a chilled glass placed over the dish. "That drink better be mine." With glass slightly smoked with spice, and egg white froth slightly graced with crimson dust (I'm looking forward to coming here in daylight, as their food should be appreciated in both sun and moon)--this drink was a perfect partner to my eggnog, pureed squash soup and brussels. Their substitutions. They swapped bread for apple slices, where reasonable. This worked very well for the meat/cheese charcuteries. Many additional kudos for their searching for GF options, yet not settling upon inferior products. I came here this evening after a hectic day, and just wanted something familiar yet properly-executed before I went home. I was content to settle upon a whey protein shake and glass of Petite Sirah in my kitchen. This place is raising the standard for local restaurants. read more

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