Blue Monkey

A speak-easy morphed with Casa Bonita brings you the Blue Monkey!

For myself, there's a trifecta checklist when it comes to thoroughly enjoying a bar, and the Blue Monkey crosses off all three:

1) Originality, from the menu to the venue, it's gotta be unique and boy is the Blue Monkey. It has plenty of seclusive seating areas from leather couches, to a cobblestone patio. It also entertains a piano man that isn't the center of attention, but is more of an ambient surprise.

2) Quality of drinks, From the old fashions to the martinis, the Blue Monkey has knowledgeable bartenders that spend time on your drink and it pays off. Sure they're pricy but it's comparable to the quality.

3) Mood/atmosphere- This is more subjective and greatly varies from me to you, but for my third must-have, a bar must have the right setting. The Blue Monkey isn't a blaring cover band kind of place, but rather a venue that has positive vibes from real conversations flowing throughout the entire place. It makes you feel good to sit back and take it all in while enjoying a fantastic cocktail.

Blue Monkey is definitely different than any bars we have up in Nashville. It's a unique piano bar with a weird "have an affair" here vibe. But that's not to say I didn't have a great time on a slow Tuesday  night! The staff is friendly and the drinks were tasty!

The Blue Monkey has a gravitational pull that lures me in after dinner at Five Points. Best time to arrive is between 9 and 10 -- later than that, and the place is standing room only.

Regarding martinis -- the BEST, most consistent cocktails regardless of whether you're looking for classic greatness or sweeter concoctions. I truly enjoy the Manhattan version I ordered. Well balanced, bold, and accompanied by a side car (basically an extra martini in a tall shot glass).

The ambiance is provided by a dark, intimate lounge perfected by comfortable leather furniture from armchairs to sofas. The bar in front provides seating for about 30; outdoors patio is great in the spring and fall. Stroll past the bar through the various rooms until you find one that you want to enjoy. Piano lounge in the back is the best place to sit back and sip.

Diverse clientele. Come dressed up or down. Nobody feels out of place here. Absolutely love it!