BESPOKE: FIRST PREVIEW OF MESS HALL

Harlem's most anticipated bar opening for 2015 will happen this coming Saturday but we were able to get a sneak peek of the notable establishment on FDB just south of 118th Street.  It has taken about a year to finally happen but the owners of Double Dutch next door will be debuting a companion social spot that takes after the early watering holes that used be in Harlem a century ago.  Taxidermy is also a feature on the wall and is something not really seen in Harlem since the days of the Elks Lodge so everything old is new once more.

As mentioned previously, we really like the departure from wood floors that establishments uptown are going for these days and the mosaic tiles at Mess Hall really brighten up the interior which also features reclaimed wood beams forming a continuous arches along the length of the space.  What is also great here is the paneling on the wall which is adds a little formality and color that balances out the neutral tones.  Another refreshing point to note is that MH does not have any visible television screen so patrons might actually have to talk to one another to be amused.  Such a novel idea!

Specialties at the bar will include craft beers, bourbons, scotch and distinct cocktails so there will something for everyone.  The lower FDB corridor had started to look really commercial in a very dated lounge sort of way over the past few years and just a little bland.  Mess Hall has finally introduced a good pairing to the cozy neighborhood cafe but for those who want a less formal place at night to hang out during later hours.  More on this Saturday's opening in our past post: LINK