What to Drink at Atera’s Downstairs Lounge

Last night, Atera opened its downstairs cocktail bar. Don’t expect a big, boisterous bar scene though. The tiny twelve-seat spot is as subdued as the upstairs restaurant: There are only a couple of stools at the bar itself, and the rest of the seating is dark leather chairs and a sofa. As for the drinks: Check out the full menu below, but look for drinks concocted by chef Matthew Lightner like the Meyer Shrub, a lemon-vinegar-and-saison mixture infused with vanilla-y tonka beans; the Sour Sumac, which is like a pisco sour dusted with its namesake shrub; and the hot, hearty-sounding Old Fashioned ale, a combination of brandy, beer, cream, ginger, and egg yolks. No food, yet, but the the place should start doing cheese by the end of the week and bar snacks shortly thereafter. People looking to snag one of the seats should e-mail for a reservation.

Lounge Menu [PDF]