1826 Restaurant & Lounge

Yeah…I know, this one’s late. But hey, look at the bright side – it’s not too late. I mean…you’re not going to be scrambling around on Friday, that’s for sure. Plus, this one’s worth the wait. I’ve got three great spots for you to check out, each and every one tailored to fit whatever mood you’re in. As long as it’s not depressed…depressed dining is a no go…but these spots will put a smile on your face.

Ready? Let’s go.

Transparency seems to be the new age trend, and while I generally like to keep a private life, the place I’m about to tell you about is worth being a little out in the open. Though secret, unknown, tucked away, and even underground lounges are far more thrilling to discover, 1826 Restaurant & Lounge is just one of those places that turn public party naysayers on the path of reconsideration.

Why? For the sheer fact it’s an architectural beauty. The place is comprised entirely of glass, meaning anyone outside can look in – but honestly, from the outside, it’s a pretty nice view to soak in. From the inside, make it to the top floor and you feel like you’re the observer to the outside world, instead of the observed.

1826 has it all. Insanely great music, clean lines, elegant bar, and a mixed menu of cocktails and food that’s bound to get anyone who’s full hungry, and anyone that’s “not drinking this weekend” having a “sip or two.” Welcoming walk-ins and taking reservations, this is a great go-to spot for when you want to impress that high maintenance date or a few friends who are looking for a place that’s swank and modern. The key here is quality, plain and simple.

So here’s the deal – book a reservation for about 9:30 or so, you know, to give yourself enough time to hit the gym, freshen up, and put on your finest (no tennis shoes and t-shirts here, please). Ring up your friends or that date and say you’ll either meet them at 1826 or be picking them up. The former always works out better. If you’re really feeling adventurous, rent a luxury car from Lou La Vie for the evening…if you don’t already have one.

Step inside and get ready for some fun. It’s always good to start out with drinks. Order a cocktail or simple drink while browsing the menu – they have options for vegetarians and steak lovers alike, and a unique way of making it known. Enjoy every bite of your meal (the tastes are explosive) then head upstairs to the lounge area to schmooze and booze the night away. This is Miami, after all.

But hang on – let’s say you don’t want a “fancy” night out (pfft, please). Let’s say you’ve been through a break up (*cough*postValentinesDaycliche*cough*) and instead just want to be forgotten by the world with a few bros or ace girls. You want that nice dinner to make you feel powerful and independent, but are perfectly comfortable in your “slumming it” attire.

Or, maybe you genuinely just fancy a night in with the lads/girls. Your pick.

What do you do? Where do you go?

In the Sack, of course….that being the name of the place – not your actual bed. No. No sexy parties. Not now.

While In The Sack does encourage you to make love, not meals, they also allow you to either take out or order-in -WAIT FOR IT- gourmet food. As in, food that looks pretty…and tastes pretty damn good. Not to mention some fine wine and spirits (beer, too).

Ergo if you’re busy with your new found habit of smoking and knocking back bourbon like it’s water or crying into a pint of ice cream and watching Sleepless in Seattle, don’t worry – these guys have you covered. Meaning no dumb decisions on whether or not you’re sober enough to drive, and no concerns of your messy hair and smeared makeup.

So go ahead, order up that grilled flank steak with a side of roasted asparagus, and Guinness chocolate chip bread pudding for dessert. Just don’t forget the whiskey, and some Irish Cream to continue satisfying that sweet tooth of yours.

Save the best for last. This next one puts a unique spin on nightlife and stay at home dining, all while carrying it out flawlessly and with perfection.

Situation: You wanna suit up, dress nice. You want nice drinks, with friends. You also want to stuff your face with comfort foods.

Solution? Now’s the time to head to Vegas and see a different doctor to get your comfort food prescription over at Rx Boiler Room. Remember that neat little underground spot I told you about a few weeks back? Well, same concept, except don’t let that stop you from reading – these guys have their own nice little spin on things.

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Like this awesome floor piece, for starters.

It’s recommended to make a reservation, although there are a plethora of seats – you still want the best ones. Besides, it’s Vegas, baby. You deserve the best and nothing less. Aesthetics wise this place has a steampunk feel to it, something that somehow, never gets old and always seems to fascinate.

So where were we? Oh right, comfort foods. Get them here, along with epic cocktails made by mixologists who really know their shit.

Workin’ hard or hardly workin’, eh Mac?

Both their food and drink menus have been ever so affectionately renamed as well – Nourishment Charts and Libation Charts, in respective order, full of tasty and original delights from these awesome chefs. My recommendation? Get together a bunch of friends or a date who likes to eat, because you’re going to want to try everything.

Start with BBQ beef spring rolls or an Inside Out French Onion Grilled Cheese, then move on to a spin of a certain fast food chain’s famous bucket experience, with crispy fried Game Hen, or some Peking Duck Lettuce Wraps. From there, take your pick from some choice sweets with Croughnuts or a bit of Pie Americana. Throw in some fun-to-say drinks like Pizzazerac and Time Traveler’s Tea, and you’ve got yourself a night out, with the palette comforts of a night in.