The Trifecta: Food, Booze, and Good Company

A hidden happy hour gem is easy to miss if you're not paying attention. Just below street level, an intimate wine bar known as the 8th Street Cellar provides for a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. From 4-7 the wine cellar offers $18 bottles of red and white wine. There is also a bottle of Prosecco for $18 if you're celebrating or just care for some bubbles. If you don't want to do a bottle, you could get the glass of the day for $5. Of course, I got a bottle--a bottle of Tempernillo.

The Mac' and Cheese was pretty ridiculous and even made colette say that she'd come back for it. The shrimp and chorizo dish that we split was good, but nothing in comparison to the mac and cheese. Overall, the 8th Street wine cellar was a great place whether you're looking to catch up with an old friend or take a date. 8th Street Cellar sets you up with a variation on my trifecta: cheap vino and reasonable priced plates--all you have to bring is the good company.

After a great experience at 8th Street Cellar, we walked over to Tertulia on 6th Ave. Tertulia could be defined as a regular, informal social gathering--perfect! Chef Seamus Mullen runs the kitchen showcasing the wonderful flavors of Spain. Unfortunately, we were too full to eat; but agreed that we had to come back to Tertulia. We did get some of their "tap" wine that is poured from a barrel into a rocks glass. The bartender later explained that Tertulia puts all wine below $50 in rocks glasses because its a more casual feel. I don't usually like drinking wine out of a rocks glass, but here it felt OK. The menu looked awesome and the plates being served around us looked even better. The staff was very friendly and the prices seemed reasonable. I guess we have a spot for our next outing!