It's enormous beaux-arts façade is easily missed while walking the congested streets near the Galleria de Arte. Built in 1913, the building was originally home of the Allemand family - the last of whom died in 1992. Thereafter, the building underwent a modest rehabilitation (more reconfiguration) and opened as a multi-use restaurant, bar and cocktail lounge. An unmarked entryway leads to a receiving hall and dramatic staircase running the interior of the building and adjoining the various entertainment spaces to each other. Staff is confined to each individual venue, meaning that few guests don't come to realize they're in the right place until well up the staircase. A distinguished cocktail lounge offers a sultry atmosphere of a dark, candle-lit corners and ornate settees amongst the buildings numerous glass doors and partitions. The main bar features abstract artwork as well as a model of the Hindenburg hanging from above. An upper lounge area is open for special events and the occasional 'underground' �" or perhaps above ground party attended by BA's fashion elite.
Tips
During the summer the outdoor patio and shed play host to silent movies and film noir on giant outdoor projection screens.
Last Word
The ground floor takes a bit of navigation, but is home to the in-house restaurant specializing in Latin-fusion cuisine with a trendy twist. Many locals insist that the restaurant has seen better days �" so you may want to eat elsewhere in the neighborhood.
