Alobar is located just off of Cumberland in a newly developed nook with slits of light set in the stone walkway that feels like the Yellow Brick Road to happy hour. The room is lovely and dark with deep banquettes in caramel, oxblood and sea-foam green— pops of colour amid the polished neutrals and a bar glowing amber. It’s very Drake-meets-Yorkville. There is flattering lighting and mirrors with sightlines to every cushioned seat, and a dark padded wall that means not only can you see and be seen, but also hear and be heard. Generous tables glisten with USDA Prime ribeyes, jumbo prawn cocktails, Dover sole and 14-oz veal chops. Drop by for snacks, and that can become a de facto meal of scallop crudo with Asian pear and shiso, butter and parmesan-glazed ricotta gnudi, the textural bliss of the Aloette wedge salad, plus a side of sparky cauliflower with grapes and almonds. Wines chosen by Christopher Sealy might include an elegant Gamay from an unlisted, open bottle. All of this is rounded out by playful desserts—mille-feuille, sour cherry cheesecake, rhubarb sundae—from pastry chef Maxine Nycz. (Hint: Get there before 5:30 p.m. when drop-ins stand a chance of a seat and the house cocktails are just $10.)
Photos: STEPHANIE MADEIRA
