Colonie — A Girl's Guide to Drinking Alone

127 Atlantic Ave btw Henry and Clinton Sts, Brooklyn Heights

The Place: A swanky, sexy restaurant that’s a great spot to take yourself on a date.

The Time: Wednesday, February 1, 7:15pm. I’ve got a lot going on right now. I just moved into a new apartment, my book is being published (shameless plug: buy Cocktails in Color, available wherever books are sold!), I’m going to India to see one of my best friends get married. See, it’s a lot! I’m yearning for a little chill, me-time so I head out into the cold night and walk literally one block to Colonie.

The Vibe: Soft and romantic, but still has a bit of an edge. When I first moved to this neighborhood, my friend told me Colonie was one of his favorite spots to go on a date, so I guess I’m out with myself! An exposed brick wall is opposite the bar, which has that distressed industrial look to it. The mirror is so weathered, it’s barely a mirror anymore. There’s a wooden ceiling, a lovely looking plant wall, fun geometric lamps above the bar. Two guys quickly snag the corner of the bar, usually my fave spot, but I grab a seat nearby. It’s definitely popular – friends, couples, dates, a few larger parties who head to the seating area in the back. Somehow there are people sitting outside?? Whatever, to each their own. The music is atmospheric and fun, but unobtrusive. It feels very cozy and intimate, but not serious, which I appreciate.

The Bartender: There are two, both friendly and professional. I overhear the bartender with the glasses give great wine recommendations, but he also gives his honest opinion. (“Yeah, the beaujolais? Not my favorite!”) When I order a glass of Gruner to go along with my pasta, he tells me it’s an excellent pairing, but that he has “a wine on deck with more personality” if that’s what I desire.

The Drank: Before the wine, I have to get the Clarified Elote Punch. My creative partner, Olivia, (again, shameless plug: buy our book!!) is affectionately known as the Milk Punch Bitch. If there’s a milk punch on the menu, she’s ordering it, so I’m channeling her tonight. It’s milk-washed mezcal, Nixta elote liqueur (one of my fave products), lemon, agave, mole bitters, all clarified. It’s delicious–silky, gently smoky, bright. It’s over ice though, which dilutes it a little too quickly for such a delicate cocktail. Maybe a big rock? I’m always partial to a big rock. I also get the Campanelle pasta with mushrooms, garlic and kale. It rules, and the Gruner does pair well with it so my bartender friend was right on the money.

Was I Hit On?: No. Just as I’m about to head out, a solo guy sits next to me at the bar, and I get a little nervous. But I needn't worry because he just stares at his phone and houses his crudo.

Should You Drink Here Alone?: Yes. Colonie is a delightful, albeit expensive, place to treat yourself or loved ones. Everything is delish, the vibes are on point and I’m thrilled to live right nearby.