I remember when Soda was a place I could walk in and see a friendly neighborhood face behind the bar. There would be an interesting soundtrack and if you'd like the bartender could offer some intelligent banter. Those times seem few and far between these days. Over the last year the familiar faces have dwindled and it seems each time I go in for a drink there is a new one behind the bar. The personality of Soda Bar is slipping away to mindless robots that can almost make a basic cocktail. Very little thought is given to the music that is being played. Almost as if the house ipod is on continuous shuffle. Don't get me wrong there are a few personable bartenders left and if you are lucky enough to encounter one you'll be pleasantly surprised. Nothing beats a well mixed cocktail, good tunes and a bartender that knows how to hold, entertain a crowd and set a mellow vibe.
It leads me to believe it's all a matter of shotty management. It doesn't take a rocket surgeon to figure out if you are the only late night bar left in your neighborhood it would be smart and profitable to keep your kitchen open till at least 2, the bar open till 4. Reliability goes a long way. A moron could run this place and still make money and apparently is...
Don't get me wrong though. The food is great, they show some pretty interesting films and the patio is revamped. Just watch out for the vermin. Saw them scare a few patrons this past weekend.
Pros: Great neighborhood spot
Cons: Bad management and rodents
more