Monday night was my last trip to Jardinere. It will close its doors for good this weekend.
Jardinere holds more memories for me that I realized when we went in earlier this month. My family and I have gone there for special occasions, for a before theater drink or meal, or just as a place to nibble and pass the time in quiet. I’ve had more than one interesting conversation there; more that one delicious dish, and, oddly enough, received the best hair compliment of my life (so far) there.
When you walk into Jardinere, you are treated to a quiet and calm oasis. A warm, rich interior with a horseshoe bar and a beautiful ceiling that illuminates small sparkles and the afternoon light turns to dusk. The second floor visible about the bar, you can see table tops nudged against the balcony railing that has dimly lit wine coolers built in at every railing post. Does it sound elegant? It is. Opulent? Not really, it fits in. It doesn’t stand out and scream but instead invites you forward into a space that is never boisterous. The soft walls and warm colors absorb sound, the soft carpet on the staircase muffles the traffic to and fro while the sturdy brick walls make you feel nestled into a safe space you can sit and relax.
It’s a destination that is going out in the same style it came in. With grace, delicious food and just a touch of whimsy.