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| - This place is a gem of a hotel lobby bar. I'm sure they hate being referred to as a lobby bar, but it is what it is. It's owned and operated by Kimpton, but with the atmosphere and offerings comparable to other successful gastro-lounges in the Phoenix area, I think this place would also do well if it were a stand-alone operation. Come for a cocktail, or two, grab some 'gastropub tapas', and wash them down with another cocktail, or two.
Service at the bar can take longer than you'd like, but understandably so. The mixologists aren't just shelling out drinks, but rather, handcrafting cocktails that fire on all cylinders--presentation, taste, and price. I love the bourbon-heavy menu, with the Lawless and Old Belle being my go-to cocktails. Yea, they're up there in price, but Old Fashioneds are $6 on the HH menu Mon-Fri.
As stated in most reviews, the Kimchi Pork Belly Sliders are pretty bomb! Most of their bar menu items can be ordered in different sizes as to promote sharing and sampling of more menu items, a definite plus.
Unfortunately, I think the bartender told me the kitchen was closed when I was there on Sunday. I think I hit the lull between lunch and dinner service(3-5pm). It was definitely a bummer. Of course I don't know what your numbers look like, but I hope you have all the variables factored into your equations. I would've stayed and ordered another drink if I had food to go along with it. One drink alone would've covered an hour worth of kitchen labor. You should consider posting a sign that says,
"We apologize to our patrons Sat-Sun 3-5pm, but our dreadful attempts at saving four hours of labor per week result in a disservice to our customers. We'd rather you eat and drink elsewhere."
All in all, 5 stars for the drinks and food (when I can get it). 1 star deducted for teasing me with a cocktail, and not pleasing me with food.
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