A Quick Shot of Bourbon

Adams Morgan's Blue Room closed earlier this month to make way for the expansion of Bourbon, its upstart downstairs neighbor. Owner Bill Thomas explained that he didn't really want to close the popular lounge, but he chose to focus on Bourbon, which, as you may expect, focuses on Kentucky and Tennessee whiskeys, classic American comfort food and American beers and wines.

The former Blue Room space has been under renovations for two weeks, and you can get your first look at the new Bourbon tomorrow when the local poetry and storytelling group SpeakEasy hosts a special open mic performance from 6 to 9. A private party is being held on Saturday. Then the upper level closes again. Why the brief tease? Thomas explains that the SpeakEasy event was booked before the Blue Room announced it was closing. He feels the most of the upstairs is ready, but says he'd like a little more time to work on details, including a new lineup of wines by the glass, before opening to the general public. Expect an announcement in about two weeks.

In the meantime, the best reason to pay a visit is the refurbished back patio, now with high wooden walls (to keep down noise), plenty of tables and a long counter for resting drinks when the space gets busy. There's no view to speak of, but thanks to its off-street location, this is a relatively serene happy hour destination. Besides, there's nothing like relaxing with a tumbler of Buffalo Trace bourbon (two ice cubes, please) after work on a pleasant spring day.

-- Fritz