I never blog about places I don’t like… until now. I was attracted to Rockwell VT when first reading a brief write-up about in the LA Times. Rockwell VT is a new neighborhood spot and everything about it was alluring – I can walk there, and they have interesting specialty cocktails, a gorgeous outdoor setting, and food. I was so excited to try the Rockwell I was ready to fall in love.
My first cocktail was The Autumn. Not so much. More like a tropical summer. Overly sweet raspberry “puree”, basil and lime. Palatable, but nothing special.
The Gemini – I’m not a fan of infused liqour and here was a perfect example of why: the mandarin blossom infused vodka used for this cocktail dominated the entire flavor composition of this drink. I could taste orange and nothing else.
The Addison was my favorite of the cocktails because it was the one that was not overly sweet. Gin, cucumbers, dill and lemon – I enjoyed it.
My friend spotted this can of Kern’s behind the bar! For such a nice place, touting a cocktail list like they do, you would think they would use fresh ingredients. Disappointing. One would also think $13 would get you a drink in a glass. Not so – Rockwell serves all of their overpriced drinks in plastic cups.
The menu sounded great – or so I thought. We ordered their flatbread, which was actually a pizza. It was basic and uninteresting. We also ordered the Kobe sliders with a blue cheese fondue. The brioche bun was delicate, the meat dry, and it was generally unimpressive, especially for the price.
I want to love you Rockwell, I do, but you didn’t live up to the hype. To be fair, this is a new bar. There are many kinks to work out like inadequate seating and flighty service. Hopefully, the next time I visit there will be improvements to it all.
Anonymous
October 5, 2009I guess I should be glad I never made it! Since I like old standard cocktails like martini, old fashioned, and manhattan, this does not sound like the place for me either!
-Leti
Gera @ Sweets Foods Blog
October 5, 2009It seems a nice place to visit, the Addison cocktail sound an interesting option in my next drink adventures 🙂
Cheers!
Gera
Gera @ SweetsFoodsBlog
October 5, 2009It seems a nice place to visit, the Addison cocktail sound an interesting option in my next drink adventures 🙂
Cheers!
Gera
Maria
October 7, 2009Sorry it wasn't a favorite!
Maria
October 7, 2009Sorry it wasn't a favorite!
NMOS
October 10, 2009Those mini slider burgers are pretty popular these days. You'll see them everywhere, not just in fast food joints but also at upscale lounges and stuff. Looks tasty.