David Myers is the uncrowned king of Downtown, being the brainiac behind Basta!, Bleu Blanc and Poppys, all located in the Renaissance Hotel. When stepping into Basta!, it's easy to get wowed by the interior, and even though the bar is playing second fiddle to the restaurant itself, it’s reasonably cosy and welcoming. As a lot of other bars directly connected to restaurants, it’s not the most inviting one for long cocktail sessions, but the menu is reasonably challenging and fun, and the staff is on their toes.
Come here for the food (excellent pizza - and steaks), allow yourself to be impressed by the interior, and round off the evening in the bar with one for the road.
Atmosphere: 5/8
Beautiful interiors that really come to life in the few hours between afternoon and early evening - thanks to both the sunlight and the aperitivo hours.
Cocktails: 5/8
Simple but well executed versions of the classics - a few twists, some really good, others less succeeded.
Bartenders: 5/8
Given the setting, in which most guests opt for a drink before or after dinner, the staff is forthcoming and eager to please when someone is coming for the cocktails alone.
Ice: 4/8
While they do have one of those ice sphere molds, the cocktails are served with small ice cubes - the market may not be ready yet.
Lobby Level
Renaissance Downtown Hotel
Marasi Drive