Eating at the bar in the South End --tonight.

[twentyoystahs]

We've got a rare kid-free 2 hr window tonight and here's what we are hoping to do: Grab a few seats at a restaurant bar, enjoy a somewhat lively scene as well as good food and drinks. I know pretty much all the spots in the South End, and I do have a few places in mind, but just thought I'd throw this question out there --where would you choose and why? Looking for fairly casual: i.e. Hammersly's might be a bit too higher end; Delux on the other end of the spectrum --If Eastern Standard was in the South End, that's where I'd go. We'll get there early enough that I don't think finding a spot at the bar will be an issue. Thoughts?

[C. Hamster]

Im too late too but I'd add Union to the list

[jajjguy]

I'm obviously chiming in too late, but I want to throw a little love Sage's way. Table or bar, it's great eats in a relaxed not-too-loud setting.

[MC Slim JB]

Good recs already. Also consider Buttery Bar-Bistro, Sage (new small-plates menu), Pops, Coda, and Toro (closest cocktails to ESK in the South End).

[Joanie]

Since you mentioned ES, I'd say Union for something somewhat similar. Rocca was my other first thought. Have you been to Banq?

[twentyoystahs]

Haven't been to Banq. I looked at the menu when it first opened and wasn't all that intrigued. It's definitely a cool space though, so if the food's good, it might be worth trying.
Rocca's ok, but I'd rather go to Stella for that type of food.

Keep 'em coming....

[hsquare2southend]

As a neighbor of Banq, and one who wasn't impressed with the food when it first opened, I have to tell you that the food there is excellent now. I have had 2 incredible meals there in the past 6 weeks. Eating at the bar itself might be a little chaotic, but the hightops would be nice. The red snapper is fantastic.

[lulu806]

I'd also recommend Union - we were there a few weeks ago and everything was perfect except for the mussels which tasted a little off. The gnocchi with duck confit were incredible and the chicken was delicious.