The buzz: Portsdown’s Infinite Studios shows no signs of slowing down with the opening of this bespoke cocktail bar and Japanese-leaning omakase counter restaurant.
The decor: The cavernous space is understated, with the large square bar acting as the anchor. With all black walls, concrete floors and a wooden bar, it’s a pretty blank canvas compared to many other bars these days. Lights are low-lying and strategically-placed as if on a sound stage.
The drinks: Leading the bar team is Taiwanese bartender Red Chuang whose bar program is all about classic cocktails with a twist. The place doesn’t have a proper menu just yet, so feel free to order drinks based on your taste and alcohol preferences. You can’t go wrong with Negronis and Last Word cocktails made of gin, chartreuse and citrus. All cocktails go for $25.
The food: On the other side of the bar are omakase-style counter seats for Japanese bites. Although the menu changes daily, there are small plates of king crab with ikura sauce and botan ebi broth and lunchtime chirashi bowls. Dinner time sees ten courses of small plates for $95. Plus, you can get your cocktails paired with food.
The music: Since the space is conceptualized by music producer Andrew Lum, the tunes here are pretty select. While early night beats vary from acoustic songs to experimental genres, the late night cocktail crowd gets a sample of soothing bossa nova, funk and jazz music.
The crowd: Currently comprised of in-the-know types and Japanese food fanatics. It’s pretty relaxed and not at all a dress-up-to-enter type of place.
Why you’ll be back: Once you make the trek, the music, cocktails and small plates mix is pretty addictive. The place also plays host to local music acts, too.
