Brix & Rye: A Subterranean Speakeasy

Looking in through the large front windows it looks to be a social club of sorts, with candles flickering, small wooden benches and tables scattered about the open room, a shuffle board lining one wall. 

Travel downstairs and owners Matt Michel, of the 1943 Pizza Bar, and Evan Bucholz have created an environment conducive for cocktail consumption. A well stocked bar consisting of bottles of Rye, Bourbon, Whiskey and Bitters line the wall behind the bar. Names and labels unfamiliar to most, but to Evan, the master mixologist, they’re the tools of his trade.

A black ceiling, dark grey walls, a long wooden banquette lined with Edison bulbs casting a golden hue across the room all set the vibe for the perfect place to hang out, meet friends and linger over Manhattans, Old Fashioneds and other classic concoctions. A menu and kitchen that is shared by the 1943 Pizza Bar offers up plates of olives, crostini, salads and of course pizza.

Brix and Rye Bar | 308A Main Street | Greenport  |  631-477-6985 

Spring's Top Grape: Chenin Blanc & Sauvignon Blanc

Our top picks for spring are whites, both brimming with notes of citrus.

Palmer Vineyards recently released its 1,800 cases of 2014 Chenin Blanc, just in time to replenish their sold out 2013 vintage. A crisp, light bodied wine with hints of grapefruit and lemongrass. The secret sauce to this one is its mineral undertones infused by the salt air of the Long Island Sound.

Paumanok’s 2014 Chenin Blanc. Its dry, tart finish of grapefruit and pineapple makes this a favorite pairing with oysters and other shellfish. Chilled, we think it’s perfect on it’s own.