Innovative cocktails & cool food from a reinvented fine-dining spot, now a chic bar.
Formerly the fine-dining establishment Contra, this Lower East Side gem has reinvented itself as Bar Contra, a sophisticated bar that still serves an impressive a la carte menu. Spearheaded by Dave Arnold, known for his experimental approach to mixology, the bar offers a unique cocktail experience that pushes boundaries. Diners can expect creative dishes to accompany the innovative drinks, making it a destination for those seeking a modern and artistic take on New American cuisine. While some may find the cocktail style intensely dry and boozy, many praise the establishment's overall cool vibe and outstanding beverage program.
Bar Contra offers a New American cuisine with a focus on unique and cool food, alongside expertly crafted cocktails. Dishes are generally well-received, and specific drinks like the Firefly Mule have been highly recommended. There is a sentiment that some of the cocktails might lean too dry and boozy for some palates.
"The Firefly Mule cocktail has been specifically highlighted and highly recommended by customers."
Customers generally have a positive view of Bar Contra, often praising its unique cocktails and creative food. There are some mixed opinions on the drink profiles, with one user finding them too dry and boozy, while others rave about the experimental techniques and outstanding drinks like the Firefly Mule.
Important Note
One reviewer found the cocktails to be too dry and boozy.
"Bar Contra is mentioned as a potential food-oriented wine bar to visit depending on the mood and menu."
Neutral"The drinks at this lovely little spot were outstanding."
Positive"Bar Contra is amazing and everyone should try David Arnold's scientific and high-concept drinks."
Positive"Recommends adding Bar Contra to the list."
Positive"Bar Contra has cocktails by Dave Arnold, known for experimental techniques, but their style is too dry and boozy."
Negative"Bar Contra has great cocktails and cool food."
Positive"Corrects a previous statement about why Contra closed, mentioning it was more about a personal shift for the owners and that it is now happily open as Bar Contra."
Neutral"Clarifies that the former restaurant Contra has reopened as Bar Contra, shifting focus from fine dining to being a bar, though it still serves an a la carte menu."
Neutral"In a reply, a user notes that Contra seems to have closed."
Neutral"User suggests Contra as an alternative restaurant recommendation to the ones initially listed."
Positive
