November 25, 2008

The Serge Strategy

Gainsbourg Bar Opens

You’ve got more in common with Birkin and Bardot than that pretty pout and penchant for minis: You’re a Gainsbourg lover, too.

Or will be once you enter Greenwood’s so-named new bar.

Rocket Queen Hannah Levin, Scott Kannberg, and bartender extraordinaire JJ Wandler (Tigertail) keep their new haunt no fuss but traditionally French. Exposed brick walls, cement floors, and vintage chandeliers set a mood of which dirty pop master Serge would approve.

Snack on smelly cheese, frites, and escargot while you nurse a Château du Donjon rosé, Terre de Mistral Cotes du Rhone, or a flute of Jean Laurent blanc de blanc. European ales keep the palate clean when barroom chatter gets naughty — and French flicks and a lurid rock soundtrack means it likely will.

Good thing there’s plenty to wash out your mouth.

Gainsbourg, 8550 Greenwood Avenue (206-781-2224).