Bar Lina

Walk through the beloved, turquoise-hued Lina Stores deli on the corner of Brewer Street, past shelves of pasta and polenta, and, through an unassuming door at the end, you’ll find the entrance to their subterranean drinking den Bar Lina. There is no signage. If you know, you know. Small but perfectly formed, with room for just 28 quaffers tucked along the deep red velvet banquettes and high bar stools, it’s the low-lit, after hours antithesis of their bright and breezy upstairs shop. The menu, however, unites the two. Daily taglieri boards of meats, cheeses and fat slabs of focaccia vary depending on the deli’s current wares, while the all- Italian cocktail menu offers a comprehensive selection of spritzes and negronis, plus innovative signatures. A Bloody Martini remains almost clear with its additional tomato water element, while the Porto Nuovo - named after the Milanese district is heavy and sweet, made with grappa, vermouth and cola syrup. Advance booking is highly recommended.