Best Intentions

Brothers Chris and Calvin Marty bought the old Marble Bar and reopened it as Best Intentions. The dive bar charm remains, although the bar is a little sleeker and the drinks are much better. The Armitage Avenue watering hole is a self-proclaimed “fancy cocktail bar” that serves up balanced drinks and elevated snacks. 

The vibe: A classic Midwest bar, complete with wood paneling, glass block windows, comfortable bar stools, a record player and a patio.

The food: Interesting dishes like calf liver mousse complement classic bar bites like burgers, fish sandwiches and harissa chicken. The matzo ball soup with "big-ass matzo balls" is a must-try.

The drinks: Best Intentions offers an extensive list of spirits, from gin and tequila to brandy, whiskey and Amari, plus shots of Angostura, mules served in tin cans, horchata margaritas, and, of course, Malort. 

Time Out tip: Settle into a table on the patio with a group for minty Wondermint Malted shakes and a “baker’s dozen” of griddled cheeseburgers with hand-cut fries and house-made, curry-laced Joppiesaus.