My Favorite Downtown Bars

This place is all about ambiance - it is very committed to the theme. It is in a basement, so you may feel skeptical at first, but trust the venue. There is a comprehensive menu of a variety of tropical cocktails (all with adorable, individualized glasses they are served in). I love sitting by the fountain, but the swings next to the communal light-bright are also a fun, interactive choice. I'd recommend a cocktail, but you really can't go wrong. AND they have fun mocktails!

The theme here is: cyberpunk! The food menu and cocktails perfectly compliment the aesthetic.

One of my favorite happy hour spots (or check out all day Tuesday happy hour). Delicious, seasonal cocktails you can pair with food from Mood Tapas out front. Mood always marks their vegetarian options, and there is always a decent selection. The entrance is either from the alley or through Mood (pull hard on the door - it's an old bank vault door and requires some muscle). The aesthetic is cozy and a little moody - invoking more of an early, turn of the century, pub.

Definitely a dive bar, but the food is tasty and the drinks are all themed for various video games/nerdy interests. But, the true reason to go here is to dominate in Ms. Pac-Man (or tekken/joust/pinball etc.)

For dinner: Anju Korean is my go to. 80% of the meals can have cauliflower subbed in to make them vegetarian. It is a lot of food, so bring a friend to share! Drinks: After I order my food I like to head upstairs to Meso bar. It's usually a little less crowded and they always have some interesting seasonal cocktails. Unsure of what you want? Trust the bartenders and ask for a mystery drink.

This brewery offers a variety of beers, order a flight to narrow down a favorite. Want something a little stronger? Try a beer cocktail, expertly paired with a local liquor.