Scottsdale has come a long way in recent years. Once wrapped up in the drunken, college-town revelry at places such as Patty's First Avenue Lounge, it's denizens have taken -- at least at first blush -- a more sophisticated approach to a night on the town. Perhaps that is why the J Bar, or "The Bar at the Mondrian" as they call it for the time being, has been such a hit. But is it going to last?
Past trips to the J Bar have been enjoyable. The crowd was hip enough, ego seemed to be in check, service was acceptable and they served up a decent variety of beer, wine and liquor. I've always believed that the reserved booth seating was a little pretentious and made the place seem like it was trying too hard to be some kind of hot Los Angeles nightclub. But that's me, I suppose. Perhaps that's why Mondrian decided to bring in some changes when they bought the place in early 2006.
While structural alterations are in the offing (an expanded outdoor seating section, among other improvements), the first thing that seemed to go was the beer menu. It's no secret that I enjoy Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. It also is no mystery that I have a hard time coping at places where beer drinkers are akin to hillbillies and the beer menu includes little more than a half dozen selections that end in "light." Unlike at the J Bar, Sierra Nevada is not available, nor are any other consumable beers --- a serious disappointment.
Beyond the lack of beer, the place seems to be about the same. Our server on a recent night was pleasant enough and tolerated my absentmindedness. The prices seemed reasonable and the music was upbeat without being too heavy. Thus far, "The Bar at the Mondrian" appears to be traveling the same, hip path has the J Bar --- minus the beer.