Dessert at Oak Long Bar and Kitchen

After entirely enjoying our meal at Coppa, Nick and I decided to move on to somewhere new for dessert. We wandered down Dartmouth Street back to Newbury when Nick came up with the genius idea of drinks and dessert at Oak Long Bar + Kitchen!  Having not been there since the massive renovation, I was excited for our next stop.  Upon walking in, I was totally turned around because there is an entrance in the spot where I used to sit in the big comfy chairs, and the space is about three times the size of the old Oak Room with combined dining and bar areas.  Dominated by a long, centrally located bar (go figure) the space is light and airy, but still has the imposing high ceilings to remind you of the history and opulence of the Fairmont.

The New Oak Long Bar and Kitchen

Although the space was packed, Nick and I were able to grab a table for 2 and the server had no problems with our drinks and dessert plan.  While we were looking over the menu we enjoyed a sampling of savory biscuits with a smoky bacon (we think?) dip.  I mean, the 10 minute walk from Coppa took a lot out of us!

Biscuit and Dip

While the space and most of the menu has changed since the renovation, the impressive cocktail list remains.  Nick got the Alive, Alert, Awake, Enthusiastic, which is made with Finlandia Vodka, freshly brewed espresso, FAIR cafe liquor, simple syrup and a splash of vanilla.  This drink was rich and perfect.  As in, rather than my simple black coffee in the morning, this would make a lovely upgrade!  All the ingredients were balanced.  Honestly, I almost stole Nick's drink!  Definitely a must try.

Alive, Alert, Awake, Enthusiastic

I went with one of the classics from the Fairmont: the vodka martini with a twist.  While the initial shock of the $19 cost seems high, when the equivalent of two and a half drinks arrives at your table you know you're in good hands.  Our server poured only a small bit out in the glass and left the remainder in the carafe that was sitting on ice on the table, ensuring ice cold vodka for each pour.  Needless to say, if you like a good martini, these are exceptional.

Vodka Martini

For dessert - the whole reason for our trip! - I went with the ice cream sandwich that I spotted on someone else's table.  This thing is ridiculous.  The sandwich is made with a big scoop of ice cream between two pieces of cake, which is all smothered by chocolate sauce.  The dessert is even served with a tall glass of milk!  While a totally impressive presentation, the cake was a bit dry and crumbly.  However, I enjoyed the ice cream and sauce plenty.

Ice Cream Sandwich

Nick, sticking with his stone fruit pattern, got the peach and plum fruit crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.  The crisp was good, with a nice crisp consistency on top that maintained its texture even with the warm fruit underneath and the cold ice cream.

Fruit Crisp

As expected, the drinks were delicious and I loved the new space.  The desserts, however, left a little to be desired.  This will not prevent us from heading back to sample their dinner menu as there were plenty of items to tempt us.

Have you been to the renovate Oak Room and LongBar?  What do you think?