Went to see "There Will Be Blood" the other night, which I have to say I found rather disappointing. Too much build up perhaps or maybe too close on the heels of "No Country For Old Men", which you probably already know is a favorite in these parts second only to "Miller's Crossing" as far as the Coen Brothers go. Anyhow, it was another cold and drizzly evening when the Pollock and I emerged from the theater and naturally decided a drink was in order (you cannot spend two and a half hours watching other people drink and not want one yourself, I dare you to try). Looking for somewhere dark and quiet and hopefully not containing anyone we’d have to make small talk with, we ended up at the Top of the Mark. True, it seems we’ve been on a fancy pants kick lately as far as watering holes go, but sometimes its just worth it. Jesse got himself some 12 year old Jameson that was smooth as butter I had a few of the most delicious dirty martinis in the world (it would appear that gin and I are finally friends again). We also tackled the charcuterie plate or “meat platter” in layman’s terms. Surprisingly, it was quite large with all sorts of salami and proscuitto, pickles, onions, pate, greens and a healthy dollop of mustard. Plus, when I asked for an extra olive our awesome waiter brought a whole glass full and with a bunch of tomolives in there to boot. Yep, its expensive (at least $10 a drink), but you definitely get what you pay for (I was daffy after a glass and a half) and you certainly can't beat the view.
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Buy me a drink? Since 1939 the Top of the Mark has been located on the 19th floor of the Mark Hopkins Hotel. It still is. As for the Mark Hopkins, you can find it at the corner of California and Mason, way up on Nob Hill. During WWII, servicemen would buy and leave a bottle in the care of the bartender so that the next soldier from their squadron could enjoy a free drink; the only requirement being whoever had the last sip would buy the next bottle. Leave one for me and I'll leave one for you...