The Art Bar is located at the top of the trippy red staircase inside the Concourse. Having worked there in the 80's when it was Sears (I'm old), I continue to be amazed at this building's transformation and the enchantment it holds. Even parking brought joy in the form of elaborate exterior illumination. These trees were lit!
Caitlin caught a second wind and decided to join me on the quest for merriment. I decided to ditch my thoughtfully planned out calendar and just wing it. It was getting late on a Saturday night, so we thought we shouldn't veer too far from home.
One of our criteria for the bars we visit is to go when there is no band. Don't get me wrong, I live for live music, but sampling holiday cocktails is important business, and we need to stay focused.
The detriment to this criteria on a Saturday night in Memphis, is that it is difficult to find a bar with no band.
"Let's try Art Bar," Caitlin announced. So we went.
Immediately upon entering the Concourse, you could hear and FEEL the pulsating thump, thump, thump, and the rousing conversation overflowing from the second level where Art Bar was located.
We were hesitant as we climbed the twisted glowing stairs knowing we were not really up for a big party. The higher we climbed, the louder it grew.
As we approached our destination we could see the overflow of happy revelers spilling out of the entrance to the bar. Caitlin's immediate response was, "No."
I coaxed her in by promising only one drink, and that there were two seats open at the bar.
She started to follow me in. I sat down at the bar and turned to look for Caitlin.
She was gone. I just knew she had bolted.
Sad I was going to miss an opportunity to check off day 2, I paused, looked over my shoulder, and then I saw her - laughing and already chatting it up with someone she knew.
Not only did she know one person there, but she knew three persons there.
So let's get to the point of why we are here. While it was very busy, and the bartender, Brook's, hands were full, I took in the moment, the scenery, the vibe, to just sit and watch and observe.
The Art Bar was living up to its name because Brook was an artist. I watched as each cocktail was crafted right in front of me. The details were noted - the barware, the glasses, the movement, the special touches - all there, and all part of what made this place so enchanting.
Despite the number of patrons, Brook made the point of acknowledging me, and let me know my precise position in the order of service. This was appreciated and understood.
The wait gave me ample time to be complimented on my super cool new hat, and Caitlin ample time to catch up with friends.
When my time to be served arrived, I requested something special and seasonal - whatever recommended.
I watched Brook create a masterpiece. It was like a beautifully orchestrated dance - in a glass - with alcohol - topped with an artistically designed garnish.
It was good. REEEaallly good. It was definitely a cocktail you wanted to slowly sip and enjoy. It was creamy with a bite.
I asked Brook the name of this magnificent creation. It was called, "Creme de la Calypso. ...a spin on the Aviator."
I kept round two simple, while Caitlin ordered off their menu of seasonal cocktails. Perfect! The have a seasonal cocktail menu!!
Caitlin ordered A TIME TO BE OLIVE.
Ok. We already had one drink, so we were finding this menu to be very entertaining. We seriously did not have enough time or stamina to sample all the cocktails that had peaked our curiosity. We are responsible people, so we will go again soon, and start at the top.
One other cool thing to note - There is more to this bar than you first realize. Keep looking. There are cozy spots around every corner.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Art Bar. While there was a frenzy of activity we still felt at home. People were friendly - all there to have a good time. It was a great mix of excitement and chill. Looking forward to the next visit.
Hope to see you tomorrow for day 3 of our Cocktail Countdown when we visit Forest Hill Grill!
