As soon as the elevator doors opened up, the change was undeniable. There were stained-glass motifs, steel beams, and fuchsia and gold accents—giving the place an upscale, industrial feel.

The most prominent change was the bar, which was relocated from the center of the room to the front, where the dance floor used to be. The bar is also now a long, white marble L-shape, instead of its rectangular predecessor. The evening featured some of The 13th Floor’s new signature cocktails, including the Hemingway Daquiri, a delicious concoction of rum, maraschino liqueur, and grapefruit juice.

Curiously, they didn’t install beer taps, but instead featured bottled beers like Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Franziskaner Hefe-Weisse, Stone Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale, Evolution Lucky 7, and Flying Dog Atlantic Lager. The local nods were a very nice touch. The menu also features nearly 40 wine selections.

In general, the new space has a much more sophisticated feel (no more animal-print carpet, though some booths did have a snake-skin pattern) and, it seems, the owners are trying to attract a more upscale clientele. One thing hasn’t changed, though: The skyline views are just as stunning.

[Image courtesy of Merkle Photography]

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The name (which was chosen because of willow trees’ resilient and independent qualities) also reflects the organic feeling decor of the place—all earthtone accents and beautiful sage-colored walls. The former Sam’s Kid space is well transformed with community tables in the front (seating 10-12 people), a Spanish tiled, teardrop-shaped bar, and a striking lounge upstairs—complete with fireplace and retro furniture (some salvaged from 1920’s Guilford mansions).

The concept of Willow, as described to me by co-owner Ryan Perlberg, is an “infusion lounge.” The drink menu heavily relies on house-made infusions (crafted by RYE and Willow bar manager Doug Atwell): think rhubarb vodka, jalapeño tequila, and blackberry bourbon. The menu also includes abbreviations, which are $7 shot drinks, a concept brought over from RYE.

The cuisine consists of casual Latin fare like mix-and-match tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and taco salad and includes proteins like Korean BBQ, vegan chorizo, smoked lamb, and pork adobo. Perlberg points out that the menu is almost entirely gluten-free.

Judging from opening weekend (the lounge was packed both Friday and Saturday) and the success of the other two Broadway businesses, Willow is sure to be a hit for customers who want innovative cocktails and affordable food in a beautiful atmosphere.

[Images: courtesy of Willow]

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