We'll admit some skepticism when the people behind The Vig took over Mabel's on Main. After all, they had big shoes to fill with the former Aaron May concept being known as an Old Town hotspot for craft cocktails for years. However, with some modest upgrades, the already moody, luxe, vintage-inspired lounge is looking more inviting. Jorge Gomez took over the kitchen's bar menu, while Rich Heider handled the drink offerings.
Stopping in for happy hour at The Beverly Monday through Friday from 4 until 7 p.m. is a good opportunity to try a handful of each without spending a lot of money.
See also: Happy Hour at Second Story Liquor Bar in Scottsdale
The Offerings:
Drinks: ½ off Specialty Cocktails $2 off beer $2 off wine $2 off well liquor
Food: $4 Mac & Cheese $4 Truffle Fries $5 Deviled Eggs $5 Beverly Classic Wedge Salad $5 Roasted Brussels Sprouts $6 Petite Sophisticate Sandwich $6 Margherita Flatbread $6 Cabot Street Wings
The Good: First off, we just have to mention that our server, Megan, was attentive, fun, and full of recommendations, taking her time at every table despite being the only server and bartender on shift at the time. Secondly, and you might have noticed this reading the menu offerings, the deals during happy hour are insanely good. Our group left spending about $50 for six cocktails and four dishes.
There's a lot to choose from on the menu, but if you're going for cocktails, the piña colada, Gone with the Gin, and Call of the Wild are all tasty for rum, gin, and whiskey fans, respectively. The bar also offers a daily punch offering for $5 during happy hour. Out of the food we had, the thick-cut truffle fries and creamy mac and cheese won us over the most.
The Bad: It's really hard to complain about anything because of the prices Beverly has set during happy hour. However, we will say some of the cocktails ranged on the more serviceable end. If you're looking for something strong, bold, spirituous, or adventurous, just consult your bartender before ordering.
In terms of food, it's obvious that roasted Brussels sprouts with pancetta and Marcona almonds is going to taste good, but the sprouts themselves were on the slimy side. The deviled eggs also were on the "just okay" side, with nothing really different or interesting about them -- not really bad, just not really good either.
Overall: There might not be a better bang for your buck happy hour spot than The Beverly. Cocktails and food are good, sometimes great, but the service was fantastic. Definitely hit up this newly redone bar and restaurant weekdays after work for a good wind down.
The Numbers: Ambiance: 4 Food: 3 Drink: 4 Service: 5 Deals: 5
Total: 21/25
