Cry Baby Gallery is an intriguing speakeasy with a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of a hidden gem. Nestled behind an unassuming façade, a gallery, the speakeasy promises an adventurous experience for those who enjoy uncovering secret spots. The entrance itself adds a touch of mystery and excitement, creating a memorable first impression for patrons.
Upon entering, one is immediately drawn to the creative and eclectic decor. The ambiance, a blend of vintage charm and contemporary flair, is undoubtedly one of Cry Baby Gallery's strongest points. The dim lighting, quirky artwork, and cozy seating arrangements contribute to a distinctive setting that encourages exploration and conversation.
However, the initial charm begins to wane when it comes to the bar area. The space around the bar is rather tight, making it somewhat uncomfortable when trying to order drinks or engage in conversation. The limited room becomes especially problematic when the venue gets crowded. Patrons often end up standing in a way that blocks access to the washroom, creating an inconvenient situation for anyone needing to navigate through the crowd. This lack of space management detracts from the overall experience and can make the evening feel more stressful than enjoyable.
The drink menu at Cry Baby Gallery is inventive, showcasing a variety of cocktails crafted with a mix of classic and novel ingredients. However, despite the creativity behind the drinks, they fall short of delivering the "wow" factor. While the beverages are certainly enjoyable, they do not stand out as exceptional or particularly memorable. For a speakeasy, where the expectation is often for innovative and top-tier cocktails, Cry Baby Gallery's offerings are somewhat underwhelming.
The crowd and atmosphere can also be hit or miss. While some nights may attract an interesting and lively mix of people, other times the vibe can feel a bit lackluster. The energy in the room heavily depends on the night and the specific patrons present, making it an inconsistent experience. This variability can be disappointing for those seeking a reliably vibrant and engaging evening out.
Overall, Cry Baby Gallery is an interesting spot that provides a unique speakeasy experience with its intriguing decor and hidden entrance. However, the cramped bar area, occasional issues with the crowd, and the merely average drinks prevent it from being a top choice. While it's worth a visit for those who enjoy uncovering secret bars and appreciate an unusual ambiance, it may not become a regular haunt for speakeasy enthusiasts seeking consistently impressive cocktails and a...
Read moreA colleague highly recommended this spot to me, insisting that I’d love it—and she was absolutely right. From the moment I arrived, the experience felt unique. The entrance features a small art gallery, and at first glance, you wouldn’t even realize there’s a bar inside. It’s only when you hear the music drifting through that curiosity kicks in. Stepping through the curtain reveals a beautifully designed cocktail bar with a warm and inviting ambiance.
The service here is impeccable. The staff is attentive, ensuring water glasses are always refilled and checking in on drinks without being intrusive. As a cocktail enthusiast and mixologist myself, I could tell right away that the mixologist here are highly skilled. Not only do they craft the menu’s cocktails with expertise, but they’re also willing to go off-menu, tailoring drinks to your personal preferences. That level of flexibility and knowledge truly sets them apart.
The cocktails are well-priced ($18),offering great value for the experience. The menu itself is a creative touch—playfully named drinks, each tied to the art displayed in the space, making the entire experience more immersive.
If I had one small wish, it would be for king-sized ice cubes, especially for classics like the Old Fashioned and Boulevardier—my personal favorites. It’s a minor detail, but one that would perfect an already fantastic experience.
With so many vibrant bars lining this street, this one stands out as one of the best. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates craft cocktails, art, and...
Read moreWe were taking a stroll in Little Portugal on a Tuesday evening. We wanted to stop by a bar and grab an early drink + dinner. Stumbled upon this hidden cocktail bar on Google, the front of Cry Baby Gallery looks NOTHING like a bar lol. It is a legit art gallery, showcasing artwork from various local artists (changes 3-4 weeks I think, someone told me). Once you passed the black curtains, and you will enter into the hidden bar!
The bartender said there is usually a bouncer in the back corner on Fridays and weekends. Since it was a Tuesday, after saying "Hello" to air for about 3 to 4 times, we finally took a peek behind the curtains, and was then welcomed by the bartender and owner.
Some drinks I would recommend: Burner Phone (bourbon based, love how strong is it) Unattended Babbage (got lots of depth, my fave!) Communion Gold (for coffee lovers) Michter's Bourbon (single shot, smokey good)
This place is all about drinks, and no food (maybe like a snack plate but that's about it). It seats about 30 people - at the bar and table seating available - good for couples, small groups, and intimate conversations.
It is dark and cozy inside, with a warm yellow hue. The circle mirrors on the wall are amazing for selfies FYI lol. One washroom at the back, and one downstairs. If you're feeling adventurous, use the one downstairs ;)
I'd come back again; they have an amazing selection of alcohol, prices are decent, and...
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