The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co.

Drinks here are not exactly cheap, but this is one of the few places that I feel confident saying that you get what you pay for. I have never gotten a cocktail here that was anything less than perfect. They have safe options that will appeal to anyone, and options for those of us who aren't afraid to get a bit weird and adventurous with it. The staff is always a delight and very knowledgeable about their offerings, service is absolutely top notch. The atmosphere is great, a little dark and moody, exactly what a little hidden gem of a cocktail bar should be.

3.5. Exclusive atmosphere, pricey drinks. We did not make a reservation and got in right away, however, this was 10pm on a rainy Friday night. It started getting crowded as the night went on and I imagine reservations are needed when the weather is nice. The doorman/hostess was so overprotective of people coming in that it ruined the vibe. For example, if you came in on your own, the bar tended kicked you back outside until the doorman could let you in. This did not happen to us as the doorman was by the door when we first came in, but we watched it happen to multiple parties after, as the doorman was also responsible for seating parties. It made the place feel snobby, even if this wasn’t the goal. Drinks were honestly too expensive for me to return. It’s cool, yes, but nothing worth the price, even with complimentary shots. Cocktail menu was rather traditional and nothing was super innovative. Two decent cocktails (manhattan and a bramble) plus alright ice cream for $50 pre- tip. Ice cream was a small scoop and tasted like store brand vanilla mixed with passion fruit puree. Overall, cool place to stumble upon, not necessarily a negative experience, but definitely not worth the price for me to return.

If you’re from out of town, as we are, this place is fantastic for after dinner cocktails. Hats off to Ryan, who theatrically played up the undeniable speakeasy element. There’s scarcely a clue where the bar is in the alley. He opened the door and slammed it on us, twice, before letting us in. The vibe is very chic and the people watching superb. Place was packed by 10. Wouldn’t hesitate to return.