Whoever said “you can’t have it all” has clearly never been to Rattlesnake Bar at the Ritz Carlton in Uptown. This swanky bar boasts a lively atmosphere pretty much ANY night of the week— filled with people at every table, and music consisting of basically every song you’ve loved throughout the years. I've had just as much fun there on a random Wednesday night after work, as I have on a bustling Saturday evening approaching close.
Beyond the atmosphere, the offerings and service are impeccable. The bar food is simple, but elevated— the burger was TO DIE for, and I barely left the quesadillas for anyone else. With Dean Fearing behind the menu, is anyone surprised by this?!
The cocktails are equally perfect--- from "Dean's Signature Margarita" to the "Flower Child" (my two faves), to the beautiful Empress 1908 gin cocktail and "Old Voice" smoking whiskey drink. The presentation on each of these, and the precise balance of flavors... truly *chef's kiss* (or in this case, would it be bartender's kiss!?)
I think a lot of the reason people don't frequent hotel bars perhaps as much as say, non-hotel bars, is the perceived cost. In this case, the bar also offers bottles of wine that would be PERFECT for splitting with a friend or hot date, while keeping the tab on the lower side. It is just as much a weekly hangout spot as it is a special occasion treat in my mind... talk about finding a place that can do both!
While the inside is dark, sophisticated, and very mood-driven, the outside patio is just a perfectly serene, comfortable setting. The patio comes alive on Friday’s & Saturday’s, with live music bumping things up at 7:30 both nights. They also have DJ's playing late night inside for those who prefer the latter. The attention to detail in creating a unique, elevated experience is simply unmatched. If you haven’t yet experienced Rattlesnake Bar… this 👏🏻 is 👏🏻 your 👏🏻 sign to get on over there. In the meantime, please enjoy some photos I took while I was there! Cue the drool.