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| - This place combines so many of my favourite things; fine vodka, bad ass historical figures, beautiful barmaids... Needless to say, I'm impressed!
I don't usually go out in the East End, since most of the places recommended to me are in the West. But with a name like Rasputin Vodka Bar, I pretty much had to check it out. A gorgeous little lounge in Leslieville, this place has a great atmosphere. What I really love is the balance between class and kitsch. Candles and chandeliers, lots of wood finishes, plush seating; huge poster of Rasputin, Russian trinkets and army caps. A few reviewers don't seem too impressed by the army caps and yes, they're a little tacky (emblazoned with "Rasputin" on one side and "Vodka" on the other), but also part of the charm. The place has a touch of elegance, but no pretension whatsoever.
And then there's the bar, completely stocked with a huge selection of vodkas. I had a "Bony M" cocktail (like the bar, I chose the drink based on the name). It was vodka, cherry liqueur and sour cherry juice...delicious! Some of the prices were a little steep, but you're paying for quality -- money well spent.
If you haven't been here and you like vodka you should definitely stop by soon. And if you live in the West end...it's worth the trip over the bridge.
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