B&B

Have I mentioned Bourbon & Branch? I don't think so. It's a bar opening at the end of this month by the owners of Anu and Swig. And I'm giddy as a schoolgirl about it. The bar manager is Todd Smith (formerly of Cortez). He's been playing with all the current experimental drink world tricks lately- both hand-crafted elements like bitters and tinctures, and also "molecular mixology" techniques like vermouth "caviar" and fizzy fruit. I'm looking forward to working my way through every drink on the menu of more than 50 cocktails. The other aspect of the bar that's equally exciting is that there is no standing allowed. They'll take reservations but once all the seats are full, no walk-ins will be admitted. As my whole schedule revolves around avoiding crowds of people (especially on weekends) I look forward to lounging with friends, top-shelf cocktails in hand, and feeling very VIP even when I'm not. I originally talked with one of the owners who told me about the idea about six months ago, and I've been perpetually thirsty ever since.