Stepping Into the Relic Lobby Bar
Step into the Relic Lobby Bar, and you’re instantly transported to a world where the beats of hip-hop pulse through the air, mingling with the clinking of glasses and the laughter of patrons. This hidden gem, nestled in the heart of the city, has become a mecca for those seeking an unparalleled cocktail experience infused with the vibrant energy of the urban music scene.
As I push open the heavy wooden doors, the first thing that strikes me is the intriguing juxtaposition of old and new. The lobby’s high ceilings and ornate architectural details hark back to a bygone era, while the sleek, modern bar and the pulsating beats from the DJ booth suggest a decidedly contemporary vibe. It’s as if the Relic has managed to seamlessly blend the vintage charm of a bygone era with the cutting-edge cool of the present day.
Cocktails with a Hip-Hop Twist
The Relic Lobby Bar has gained a reputation for its exceptional cocktail menu, which puts a unique spin on classic recipes. But here, the drinks are more than just a delicious concoction of spirits and mixers – they’re a celebration of the vibrant hip-hop culture that infuses every aspect of the establishment.
Take, for instance, the “Notorious B.I.G.” – a bold, smooth blend of Hennessy cognac, blackberry liqueur, and a hint of lemon, garnished with a toasted marshmallow. As I sip it, the warmth of the Hennessy mingles with the tart-sweet notes of the blackberry, creating a flavor profile that pays homage to the “King of New York” himself. It’s a drink that’s as complex and multifaceted as the legendary rapper it’s named after.
But the Relic’s cocktail menu doesn’t stop there. The “Run-DMC” is a refreshing take on the Moscow Mule, infused with vodka, ginger beer, and a splash of lime, while the “Kanye Cooler” is a colorful, Instagram-worthy concoction that blends tequila, pineapple, and a hint of chili for a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
The Vibe: A Melting Pot of Creativity
As I sip my “Notorious B.I.G.,” I can’t help but be captivated by the energy that permeates the Relic Lobby Bar. It’s a melting pot of creativity, where the city’s movers and shakers – from artists and musicians to entrepreneurs and tastemakers – converge to indulge in exceptional cocktails and immerse themselves in the pulsating beats of hip-hop.
The bar’s walls are adorned with vibrant murals, paying homage to the legends of the genre, from Tupac to Biggie, while the DJ booth is manned by a rotating cast of talented artists who keep the dance floor packed with their skillful blending of classic tracks and the latest releases.
But what really sets the Relic apart is the sense of community and inclusivity that pervades the space. Here, it doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned hip-hop aficionado or a newcomer to the scene – everyone is welcomed with open arms, invited to sway to the music, and encouraged to explore the unique cocktail menu.
The Relic’s Origin Story
The Relic Lobby Bar’s origins can be traced back to the turbulent year of 2020, a time when the COVID-19 pandemic swept through the city, forcing countless beloved establishments to shutter their doors. It was amidst this challenging landscape that the Relic’s founders, a group of passionate music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts, saw an opportunity to create something truly special.
“We knew that the city needed a space where people could come together and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of hip-hop,” explains the Relic’s managing partner, Alex Denton. “And what better way to do that than by combining our love for exceptional cocktails with the infectious energy of the urban music scene?”
The Relic’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but the team’s unwavering dedication and the support of the local community have been instrumental in its success. “When we first opened, there were a lot of skeptics who didn’t think a bar like this could survive in the midst of a pandemic,” Denton recalls. “But we were determined to prove them wrong.”
A Melting Pot of Creativity and Collaboration
And prove them wrong, they did. Today, the Relic Lobby Bar has become a hub of creativity and collaboration, attracting a diverse clientele that includes local artists, musicians, and industry professionals. It’s not uncommon to see a table of up-and-coming rappers discussing their latest projects over a round of custom cocktails, or a group of graphic designers brainstorming their next mural design while sipping on a “Kanye Cooler.”
The Relic’s commitment to fostering this creative community extends beyond the confines of the bar itself. The team regularly hosts live music events, DJ showcases, and even hip-hop-inspired art exhibits, providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and connect with like-minded individuals.
“This place is more than just a bar,” says Denton. “It’s a sanctuary for those who live and breathe the culture of hip-hop. Here, they can come together, exchange ideas, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.”
A Cocktail Celebration Like No Other
As the night wears on, the energy at the Relic Lobby Bar only continues to build. The dance floor is alive with bodies swaying to the infectious beats, while the bar remains abuzz with lively conversation and the occasional burst of laughter.
And through it all, the cocktails continue to flow, each one a unique work of art that captures the spirit of the hip-hop movement. Whether you’re sipping on the “Notorious B.I.G.” or indulging in the “Run-DMC,” one thing is clear: this is a cocktail celebration like no other.
So, the next time you find yourself in the city, be sure to step through the heavy wooden doors of the Relic Lobby Bar. Here, you’ll discover a world where the past and the present collide, where the art of mixology meets the soul of hip-hop, and where the only thing that matters is the beat of the music and the company of fellow enthusiasts.
After all, as the old saying goes, “Hip-hop don’t stop.” And at the Relic Lobby Bar, it never will.
