Hidden behind a door in the hallway of Burke & Wills, is the stairway to the Manhattan Cricket Club, which may be the only reasonably grownup bar in a sea of frat-ish drinking establishments. Tiny, with only room for about 20 or so people, this spot has tables for two or small families or friends catching up, in a setting that we reluctantly describe as speakeasy-esque. The term, which has been applied now to every single bar serving decently mixed cocktails in a 19th century "inspired" setting, has no snotty connotation here however. The bar is easy going, friendly, and while they serve such hilariously monickered cocktails as Down the Stretch They Come (a bourbon, agave, lime mixture) and Bonfire of the Calamities (a smokey vodka, lemon lime concoction), they will also pour you a decent straight spirit, or make you something more to your liking. On our recent visit, that was something with red pepper puree, black pepper, lime and tomato essence - fruitier than a Bloody Mary - which we hope they add to the menu. Either way, we'll be back to investigate.

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