Continuing the nautical theme, we decided to stop by the Rusty Knot on our way back downtown for a quick drink. The bar was opened by Spotted Pig owner Ken Friedman and Freemans owner Taavo Somer in 2008, but you may not realize it when ordering a 99 cent Busch on tap or a $4 can of Bud. The cocktails are served in tiki cups with paper umbrellas, and include classsics such as a Dark & Stormy, Zombie and Spiced Colada. Happy Hour is  Monday – Friday from 4-7pm, and Tuesday night is 2 for 1 all night (a bargain if you’re drinking the $12 cocktails). The food menu recently changed with the departure of chef Joaquin Baca (Momofuku) and the addition of chef Sue Torres (Sueño) - which will include more Latin inspired items such as Tacos al Pastor and Mango Lollipops (luckily the pretzel dogs remain). Unfortunately the menu on the wall had a masking tape “X” across it, and when we inquired the bartender said the kitchen was closed for the night “due to a malfunction”. I’ll definitely be back to try the Tacos al Pastor!

NOTE: The space is small and on peak nights the line can stretch down the block.

Cocktail:

• Dark & Stormy – dark rum, ginger beer, fresh lime juice served over ice

GOOD FOR: DIVE BAR CHIC, PLAYING POOL, TIKI COCKTAILS, TRENDY, CHEAP BEERS, HAPPY HOUR