May 21, 2012

Alex Roth, Zach Sosna, and Thomas Zipperstein at Japps

Wow, what a weekend. So many events going on it could’ve made your head spin.

Friday: Hammer Time and Cincy’s Spring Fling

Saturday: OTR 5k with a post race block party celebration, PLN Dodgeball tourney on Fountain Square, Meals on Wheels, Celestial Ball, and Exhibitionism

Sunday: Arthritis Walk at Sawyer Point and RAIN, a Beatles tribute performance at the Aronoff Center

Oh yeah, and did I mention the Reds took 2 of 3 from the Yanks at Yankee Stadium? Good deal.

New summer drink, not an Arnold Palmer but a Reverend Palmer at Embers Restaurant: black tea infused Bulleit Bourbon, lemon simple syrup, lemon bitters, and fresh mint. Sounds good about now. 

While I did attend the Hammer Time event on Friday evening, with so many events to choose from on Saturday night, I went with the less predictable, but equally as enjoyable route, dinner at Embers followed by a night out in Over the Rhine Cincinnati. When I rolled up to Neon’s at a quarter till 10, the place was packed. I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised. It was a gorgeous night, the courtyard there is awesome, and people want to go out.

man’s best friend looking for some love

One of the best things about Neon’s is that pets are allowed. I spied an adorable French bulldog, amongst others, in the crowd. Following a couple of vodka sodas, our pub crawling crew headed to Japps Since 1879.

the cool gin

If you haven’t been to Japps, it should be on your list of places to procure a drink. The vibe is totally different from Neon’s. Both good, just different. Think craft cocktails, high brow, and that air of sophistication. I bet you didn’t realize you could get culture at a bar, but Japps does just that. I ordered the Cool Gin. I saw another gal at the bar with one, and she kindly offered me a sip. I was convinced.

The Dirty Bird, poster outside of the bathroom at Bakersfield 

Next up, Bakersfield on Vine Street. Nothing washes down a night of good drinks like midnight tacos. Bakersfield has only been open since February and is still riding the high of being the new kid on the block. Doesn’t hurt that the food is flavorfully delicious.

taco time

I decided to call it a night there, after a few bites of the short rib taco. It’s nice to know that, even on a day when there are plenty of other events to choose from, the city still lights up to show you a good time.

Gotta love the Queen City.

| | |