I've been to a lot of bars in my life. Few have had the right mix of music, atmosphere, women and decor.
The Blake Street Vault is one of those places that just got it right. The owners, who have owned 14 bars previously, overlooked no details in putting this place together. After finishing dinner across the street, we spotted the beautiful lighting and just walked into what was to become a fantastic evening.
More pictures and commentary after the break ...
These are the owners, Carol and Jim. Wonderful people with a great story and a great bar.
After a few massive chalice-sized beers, Carol invited us to taste whiskey. The owners went down to the Jack Daniel's Distillery and selected a barrel of "Single Barrel", a super-fine whiskey, individually crafted, signed, which produces 240 bottles, which are labeled with the owner's name and bar. Carol allowed us to taste the Single Barrel along side the standard #7 and Gentleman Jack. I think it speaks to our palattes that Spammer and myself both preferred the standard #7 ... but it was a great experience. Carol gave us the whole history of the Single Barrel and even more. We love people who are enthusiastic about their trade.
This is a shot of the bar from above. It's only been open for 5 weeks, so there was still room to move. Expect that to change.
We did miss a clear picture of the custom-installed and absoutely gorgeous tin ceiling. You can just make it out above, but it's one of the many touches that the Blake Street Vault employs to make it one of the most beautiful bars that I've seen.
We didn't get to taste the food, but if the passion and attention to detail that we saw in other aspects of this place are put into dining as well, I have a feeling we will be eating a lot of meals here in the future.