Visiting a restaurant prior to their official opening is often an interesting experience. You get a sneak peek and exclusive look at the décor and are one of the first people to try the dishes that are expected to wow patrons when the doors are “officially” opened.
I recently had the opportunity to check out the new Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour last week. This new downtown hot spot is located in the historic Luhrs Building which was home to the Prohibition department up until 1934 and was created by Arizona Cocktail Week co-founder Ross Simon. You would imagine that a cocktail lounge created by someone who is pretty much the first name in where and what to drink in the Valley.
The décor is lush yet simple at the same time. I loved the banquettes and felt that they brought a little retro class to the joint. The bar area is the main focus point and with good intent. The lighting and design enhance the beauty of all those lovely bottles!
We were expecting small portions of the bar treats to be passed, but didn’t see that happen while we were there, unfortunately. Thanks to the appetizer fairy, we were treated to the Hurricane Popcorn, the Market Meat & Cheese Board and Smashed Chips. It was really hard to take a break from the popcorn to give the other dishes a chance, but I worked up the nerve to try a little of everything.
The flavor combinations of all the dishes were in some places really surprising and delightful at each turn. The Market Meat & Cheese Board featured these delightful chocolate quicos and a really unexpected pickled pear that almost had a gelee texture.
The Smashed Chips featured a horseradish crema (loved it!) along with a smoked red pepper sauce and salsa verde avocado. The back and forth of zings of the sauces created an exciting dish.
After trying these bites, I decided after looking at the menu that I couldn’t leave without the Beets & Eggs and I could not be happier. Roasted beets make my heart happy; salmon makes me smile. This was the perfect dish for my tastes.
Were there drinks? But of course! Their drink menu is a delightful 23 pages and is split into adorable categories. They also promise that if there is something that you are looking for that not listed on their menu, they promise that they will do their “darndest” to get it for you. My favorite drink of the night was the Solero which was refreshing and just sweet enough to make your lips curl up into a sugary smile.
My bill arrived in a repurposed cigar case that was so adorable that I would imagine after a night of dinner and drinks you could never be cranky at its arrival. Were there hiccups throughout the night? Certainly, but I would like to imagine that the nights leading up to their official opening on May 30th only helped them to figure out how to circumvent all the bumps moving forward. If you’re downtown, be sure to check them out. I have a feeling this will soon be the place to see and be seen!
*This meal was provided to us complimentary as a part of a media invitation. However, this has no effect on our opinions and comments regarding our experience. View our Disclosure Policy for further explanation.