Nosh and sip at Saloon in Davis Square

[Erik Jacobs for Boston.com]

There's a new hotspot in town. I spent some time last night at the new Davis Square establishment Saloon, a subterranean, pre-Prohibition style bar. It's owned by Ken Kelly and David Flanagan, the same folks as Foundry on Elm (which just happens to be right upstairs.) Opened in December, Saloon has an extensive list of brown liquors (bourbon, anyone?) as well as interesting beers. On tap you'll find things like Pretty Things St. Botolph, Goose Island "Sofie," and Founder's Red Rye PA. The food from Chef Derek Clough skews more toward the turn-of-the-century American bar foods, like deviled eggs, dates wrapped in bacon, steak and kidney pie, and lamb ribs. There are also a host of classic cocktails, including the Daisey (pictured below), which is made with whiskey, yellow chartreuse, lemon, black currant syrup, and soda.

One of my favorite things about this place though is the decor, designed by Peter Niemitz. It's dark and moody, maintaining that throwback vibe via an architectural arch (which was salvaged from the former Capital Grille location on Newbury Street) and appropriately tarnished mirrors behind the bar, as well as tufted leather banquette seating areas throughout the dining room. There were not that many people seated in the dining room when I was there, however it was a Monday night. There were plenty of folks at the bar though, which is where I prefer to sit anyway. Seems like it'd be a great date spot or a fun night out with some thirsty friends.

Has anyone else been to Saloon yet? What do you think? Share your thoughts using the comments section below.

Saloon is located at 255 Elm Street in Somerville. 617-628-4444. saloondavis.com