The Hot 10: Raising the Wine Bar
With no disrespect to the wine bars of yore, today’s versions—defined by eclectic lists, first-rate food, and owners who want to please (not intimidate) the clientele—make drinking wine more fun.
Published Oct. 2008
By Andrew Knowlton
1. Terroir, New York
2. Bar Bambino, San Francisco
3. Top Flr, Atlanta
At this two-story gem in Midtown Atlanta, the small but smartly chosen list changes weekly and always includes interesting varietals from small-production wineries. The full-flavored, rustic food—duck confit and applewood-smoked-bacon pizza, grilled hanger steak—completes the experience.
4. Tria Cafe, Philadelphia
5. The Local Vine, Seattle
6. Cork Wine Bar, Washington, D.C.
7. Brasserie du Vin, Honolulu
8. Tasca, Los Angeles
9. Max’s Wine Dive, Houston
10. Lavomatic Café, Cincinnati