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[title]Best New Bar The Aviary
Opening just two weeks after its adjacent sibling, Next, Aviary easily could have played the role of Off Broadway, the place to take in an aperitif if you can’t get into the main attraction. Instead, it demanded its own spotlight, emerging as a destination for disarmingly creative cocktails served in an ultra-plush setting, one of pillowy white banquettes and carpet cushy enough to sink stilettos into. Sitting back and settling in is the only way to enjoy the show, orchestrated by executive chef Craig Schoettler, a master of the obscure known for filling futuristic serving vessels with booze that infuses before your eyes, concocting 32 types of ice and incorporating white-hot ingredients ranging from finger limes to Batavia Arrack, rum’s ancestor from the island of Java. Add to this the best (albeit tiniest) bar bites in town and the Aviary steps out of the Next shadow positively shining. 955 W Fulton Mkt.
Other nominees the Barrelhouse Flat, DiSotto Enoteca, Elixir, Telegraph
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