Wine, Women, and Song - Redux!

#14: Wine Bar.

Full disclosure: Last night was my second time at Wine Bar (Church just south of Front).  Still, it easily qualifies as a first, due to it being a unique experience this time around.

Piera and I were seated at the kitchen.  That's right, the remarkable design includes a bar framing the kitchen, so that while patrons sit, eat, and drink, they have the opportunity to watch and possibly even interact with the chefs (depending on how busy it gets!).

We quickly created an impromptu food and wine tasting menu, with the help of the sommelier and chefs.  While I assumed the wine would be excellent - which it was - the food was outstanding, both in terms of presentation and taste.  It was a treat for the senses.

We were soon joined by Mary, one of the owners of this gem.  Mary and I had met in screenwriting class years ago, and stayed in touch sporadically over the years.  It was fantastic to see her again and catch up after all this time, especially over delicious wine and delectable apps.  Here's a shot of Mary, Bryan (another one of the owners), Piera, and me - and a LOT of jars.

This is easily one of the very best wine venues the city has to offer.  I'm already looking forward to a return trip!

#15: Berber Lounge.

So many things stood out on the first trip to Berber Lounge (Front west of Church, just around the corner from Wine Bar).

The handmade Moroccan decor was beautiful, and helped us to feel instantly transported out of the city and into a foreign land.  The plush couches were inviting and comfortable.  The food didn't disappoint.

#16: Suzana Da Camara.

Still...the best part of the Berber evening was the live music.  Suzana Da Camara wasn't just a singer...she was an experience.  A theatrical combination of cabaret, jazz, blues, performed in English, French, and Portugese, she was one of those unforgettable musical pleasures that come along very rarely.

After the final set, we had a chance to briefly sit and chat with Suzana and Mike.  They were both extremely friendly and personable, and it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to get to know these artists a little better.

Here are Piera and Suzana, two incredibly lovely women - though I think the pic more than speaks for itself.

Although I rarely buy merch when catching new live music, we snapped up a couple of CDs immediately after the show.  I think my copy is already almost worn out. :)