Before the Date…
The work week’s done it’s toll as the clock pushes towards 5pm. Your attention span has dwindled to unimaginable lows but there is hope on the horizon. Not too far away, in the back of a small wine shop, a wine party is being prepared. Waiting for you, yes you, to step out of the office to sip away the weeks worries.
So gather the crew cause it’s Friday after work and there’s some real business to be done.
St0p #1: 5pm – 6pm
NATURAL WINE TASTING
in the back of a local wine shop
What to Know
Opened in 2013, Bar & Garden specializes in wines without herbicides, pesticides, fungicides or chemical fertilizers used in their production process, hence the “Garden”.
This wine shop is in an old liquor store in the in the middle of the Arts District. It is $10 for tastings, and well worth the price of admission.
Tastings begin at 5pm. They pour until the wine runs out. The earlier you arrive the better.
If you want to bring in cheese, chocolate or other wine pairing items that’s welcome. The regulars seem to have it down to a science.
It’s on a honor system where you pay at the end when you leave. They’ll also ask you to write down your favorite wine from that tasting, they realize it’s hard to remember.
Bottles from the tasting are discounted if you enjoyed a tasting. Grab one, or two for Stop #2 as they have a corkage.
St0p #2: 6:30pm
FRESH CASUAL PASTA
FROM A TRUE ITALIAN FAMILY
What to Know
This is the latest incarnation of a Mid City favorite. Their first location is in a tiny strip mall featured on DTC #5.
Ordering is a walk up counter, pray for a table model. The line does move somewhat quickly and they have room for 90 people however, prepare for a small wait.
What to order: Homemade gnocchi with pesto (or anything), fresh pappardelle with arrabiata, and cotoletta alla milanese.
A wine list is available but grabbing a bottle from stop #1 is the call. There is a $15 corkage fee.
St0p #3: 8pm
DESSERT…MORE WINE
ON A GORGEOUS ROOFTOP
What to Know
Absolutely call to get a reservation. Making it at 8pm will give you enough wiggle room to take your time.
Definitely ask for your table to be on the far side closest to the train. They have heaters out there so you’ll be all good. If the tables aren’t available grab the couches near the outside bar.
It’s all about a couple glasses of wine and that dessert menu. Enjoy.