First officially opening its doors on November 20th, The Eastman Bar in Rochester is quickly becoming one of the premier places to be! This upscale and intimate cocktail bar is owned by Nathan Hamood, who also happens to own the coffee shop that it is hidden beneath; Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters, which has many locations in the metro-Detroit area.
What is The Eastman?
The Eastman Bar is the new speakeasy bar in Rochester, it is located underground in the basement of Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters and is named after the person who first built the building back in 1890, Jefferson Eastman. The entrance, albeit not as hidden as a true speakeasy, can be found through a side door in the alley behind the building, giving it an “off-the-beaten-path” vibe.
What to expect
This is a formal cocktail bar, so definitely don’t expect it to be a sports bar environment or a place to go for cheap beer, rather this is a spot to try classic cocktails that have been reinvented and reimagined using local ingredients and spirits. The atmosphere is incredibly cozy and bright with charming art-deco style decor and ambiance, making the space feel welcoming and spacious, which means that this is the perfect place for groups of friends or just drinks with someone else.
You should note that this is not a dinner venue, so while they have a few minor snacks to order from, you should plan out your meal elsewhere before you come here to enjoy your cocktails.