Finding a cocktail bar that pulls off a delicious food menu alongside inspired drinks can feel like a rare win, but Love Thy Neighbor hits that sweet spot effortlessly. Blending a sleek space with a subtle Japanese influence across both its backbar and kitchen, it is easily one of the coolest new spots to pull up a seat.
Inside, the room strikes a great balance between rugged and refined. Love Thy Neighbor pairs industrial stone booth seating with a warm, polished bar. It feels chic without being stiff, making it just as good for a quick drink as it is for staying through dinner.
Scanning the cocktail list, the Japanese inspiration comes through immediately. The Hoji Negroni was an instant standout: built with mezcal, hojicha, sakura, Suze, and root, it brings a soft, tea-infused smokiness while staying exceptionally smooth and spirit-forward. If you want something fun and unexpected, get the Wagyu Coke. Using bourbon, wagyu, dark cherry, and house-made cola, it takes the familiar comfort of a classic cola and turns it into a rich, velvety drink with a deep, syrupy finish that never feels overly sweet.
Photo from Vinesh Vora
On the food side, the kitchen turns out a sharp lineup of Japanese-accented bites designed to go with the bar menu. The Pastrami Tartare is a must-order. It is deeply savory and smoky, topped with cured egg yolk for extra richness and served with crisp crackers to scoop it up.
Photo from Vinesh Vora
Their fried dishes hit the mark, too. The fries arrive piping hot, light, and impeccably crispy alongside a creamy burnt shisito aioli that you’ll want to put on everything. The Karaage delivers on all fronts with a golden, flavorful crunch. But, the real star of the food menu has to be the Miso Mussels. Tender and perfectly cooked, they come swimming in a fragrant, rich miso broth that practically demands extra bread just to sop up every drop.
Whether you’re tucked into one of the stone booths for a full spread or perched at the bar sipping a Hoji Negroni, Love Thy Neighbor delivers an elevated, effortless night out. Put this one right at the top of your radar.
