aliveOne

This is a larger bar than it seems. Your first step inside makes you think, "well, isn't this cool?" It's comfortable, clean,  and as far as dimly lit bars go, a classy place to hang out. Step into the basement and think "did I just step off the plane in another city?" You'll be in a tight-spaced secondary bar with some chic seating and space to hang out. We went on a night when there was a DJ actually mixing records (a rarity, I might add) and had a blast dancing with complete strangers. The type of people that go to this bar seem very friendly.

This two floor bar is called aliveOne, but the basement will always be known as the Magic Basement to me. Was it called the Magic Basement at one point in time? I'm not sure, but it sure is magical. When I do go to aliveOne, I typically start and end  in the Magic Basement.

On the weekend there is a DJ spinning, drinks flowing, and good conversation occurring. I like the decor, especially this one painting of three hands. Occasionally, the Magic Basement will be rented out to a private party and there will be a light spread at 11 the bar staff will take it away. So if you plan on vulturing some of it make sure you do before it is taken away.

We ended up here on a Saturday night about 11pm.  We are a group of early 30-somethings that do not match the typical Mt. Adams mold.  So that is why we were so excited to walk into this bar and find exactly everything we love in a bar.

First, no cover... Hard to find in Mt. Adams.  Great jukebox... Which when it plays, it doesn't play it so loud that you can't keep talking.  One of the best bartenders in the city--- Our favorite from Millions- Greg.  

Best part--- Ambiance.  We were able to make it to the bar without having to push through 14 people.  We were able to easily find a table to sit at.  Everyone was able to talk and hear each other without shouting, but it wasn't so quiet that we couldn't get a little rowdy and raunchy (2 things we do best).

Unfortunately, midnight hit and that all changed.  Suddenly the line was out the door with early 20-somethings.  In order to make it to the bar, you had to swim through 14 backwards baseball cap popped collars wearing dudes.  We exited quickly at that point.  

So, if you have bar preferences like mine, hit up this place anytime before midnight...