My wife found this little gem online while looking for a place we haven't been to before for her birthday. She hit the jackpot on Sidebar! When we walked in we felt like we were transported to Chicago or New York with how beautiful and classy we found the decor, tables, chairs, the bar, hell the whole atmosphere is so refreshing compared to any other cocktail bar downtown. Let's start with the staff. The second we walked in we were greeted by Sarah with smiles and excited "hellos" and "welcomes!". To me that's big points right off the go! She explained how it's Java, a coffee place in the morning but turns into a very comfortable, relaxing upscale cocktail lounge at night. They're tealight candles on every table. Candles mixed in the decor and on one long high top table We both were amazed at the beautiful floral arrangements. When they told us 12 hours was put into the arrangements I quickly thought "more points!" We then met Danni, who we asked "is this all you?" Which she said"yes." I'm happy she has the imagination beyond what others lack when it comes to comfort for their patrons. I also want to mention a very kind gentleman named Andrew who I'm not sure what his job is there but I do know he came to our table and sang a lovely rendition of happy birthday to my wife! Again, big points across the board so far! Their happy hour is from 4pm to 6:30pm where they have specialty cocktails on Mondays to Thursdays. And trust me. That don't mean they make their drinks any different for the price. My dirty martini was the best I've ever drank. My wife thought her Margaritas was also the best she's ever had. And you can't deny yourself an old fashion. You will not be disappointed! Food wise they have a small menu of snacks, small plates and a flatbread (pictured) that is too die for! We also ordered the Old Bay chips (pictured) with lemon aioli which goes so perfectly together. One of the other ladies that met us and helped with our orders was Mina, a delightful young lady we really enjoyed talking with. Her drink making abilities astounded me! Everyone was extremely attentive to us. At this point I was no longer in the mindset I've had everywhere else that this can't be so perfect there must be something somewhere wrong! But nope, every single thing about our experience at Sidebar was top notch perfect! We will and already have planned our next visit if for anything else for the positive, happy, warm, relaxed feeling we got from the staff and lounge itself. You will not be disappointed by choosing Sidebar for a meeting, date night or just a quick after work cocktail to unwind! So do yourself a favor and go there. I'll even say don't walk, run to it! You'll love...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreI went to Sidebar for the first time at their grand opening. I do not drink alcohol, but I wanted to go somewhere different with my daughter. Sidebar has way better non-alcoholic options than Iāve ever had before. I have tried non-alcoholic margaritas in the past at another establishment and it was disgusting. Here, I had two different drinks. One was something pink with mint that was reminiscent of a tequila sour and the other one I went to the bartender and said I love lemon and she made me a drink that was so tart and good! We also ordered the Old Bay Chips with lemon aioli and they were delicious! The decor was very eye catching. I wasnāt sure where to look at first, it was all so beautiful. The atmosphere was great, the staff were very friendly. We will go...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreMy mom and I went to Sidebar for a girlās night out and we absolutely love it there!! We both had multiple custom mocktails that tasted just like their alcoholic counterparts. I told them what flavors I liked and they made a drink that I loved. Add that to their small plates that are irresistibly delicious, I absolutely recommend Sidebar to everyone who likes a night out with friends. And itās so beautiful in there. The bartenders know what theyāre doing and are very attentive and welcoming. We had such a fun night out. Iām glad we have an awesome bar to go to in South Bend!! All in all, Sidebar has great service, an amazing atmosphere, tasty drinks and food⦠thatās a winning combination for me. I can definitely see myself returning in...
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