by Taylor Divico

Created on: July 31, 2009   Last Updated: April 04, 2011

Pick your poison! From corks to taps, Rochester's South Wedge neighborhood livens with a fine mesh of desirable drinking holes. This restored section of the city is becoming increasingly popular for young professionals interested in affordable living and partying in a safe section with old-school charm and plenty of bar-hopping opportunities.

BEST AFFORDABILITY AND ATMOSPHERE: SOUTH WEDGE COLONY BAR AND GRILLE

This mellow South Avenue spot offers economic prices and a lounge-like atmosphere, making for comfortable conversation and an unpretentious vibe. If the earthy wall tones and comfy leather couches don't put one at ease, the fact that this friendly neighborhood bar won't break the bank should. Dollar drafts, five dollar pitchers, and discounted well drinks are offered every night of the week. Late night munchies aren't a problem either. The Colony kitchen stays open until two o'clock in the morning, serving up pub favorites such as; hot wings and burgers. Entertainment is abundant providing themed fun with; NFL Sundays, Karaoke Night and Open Mic. Mondays, while pool tables and dartboards allow for casual gaming enjoyment.

BEST ENTERTAINMENT: LUX LOUNGE
The multi-award winning Lux Lounge puts a hip spin on things with themed nights and specials reminiscent of the 1960's Haight-Ashbury culture of creative and communal neighborhood fun. Out-of-the-box entertainment such as; Arts and Crafts Night, Burn Your Own Burger for a Dollar, and B-Movie Backyard Bonanza, combine old-fashioned fun with cheap food and drink. Friday happy hour draft and mixed drink specials begin at four o'clock in the afternoon with free pizza taking the experience to a whole new level at six o'clock. Featuring and supporting local artists, the Lux Lounge offers visual delights for those capable of seeing straight after indulging in the Lux ritualized Pabstsmear. This nightly offering allows for a well shot of choice to be combined with a Pabst for a minimal three dollars. Now, that's a bargain that's cheap and exciting to watch!

BEST WINE: SOLERA
Knowledgeable and welcoming sommeliers make this intimate bar a favorite for the wine connoisseur. Reasonable pricing per glass, ranging from five dollars and upwards to nine dollars, makes Solera a relaxing bar for young sophisticates on a moderate spending budget. Solera offers a fine selection of reds and whites by the glass, bottle, and half-bottle from around the globe, with an extensive list of reserves, predominantly representing California

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>