Go to Ventana

I briefly mentioned the bar Ventana in my previous post, but after grabbing drinks there again last night, I realized that it necessitated a full blog post. It is simply fantastic.

Ventana is located on 5th street SE, where Kiki used to be. Kiki prided itself on drinks made with fresh fruit--so fresh that it took approximately 18 minutes for the one bartender to create each drink. It was shortlived. Ventana has definitely kept the fresh aspect going, but is ten times more efficient. People without much patience (me) require this of a good bar. Also, Serena has now introduced me to the owner and the main bartender, so we can really expedite the process.

Ventana has a very creative drink list--from Mango Ginger and Rosemary Grapefruit Martinis, to Cucumber and Jalapeno Margaritas. They even have this odd seafoam concoction that they top drinks with (sort of like a latte) instead of putting salt on rims. Inventive, yes, over the top, maybe, but delicious? Absoltely. I've loved every drink I've tried there--especially the Rosemary Grapefruit, and the Bellini (made with fresh peaches).

I've yet to try the food (they have a Mexican-style menu), but word on the street is that it is delicious. The atmosphere is also great--extremely low key (we still stuck out a little bit in our heels last night, but I will continue to wear them), with great music, comfortable seating, and interesting people. Oh, and there's a live video feed in the bathroom so you can watch what's happening in the bar. We had a really great group last night, and Ventana was just the perfect place to be.

The icing on the cake? They were playing the Flight of the Conchords soundtrack.