East Side Wino

A boy recently took us to Bar Covell, which was a great date spot but (we think) an even greater setting for a girls night out.  At this cozy, New York-esque wine bar, you don't have to bother with the whole staring-at-wine-list-like-you-actually-know-anything-about-it charade.  Rather, the bartender will simply ask you a series of questions and make an informed - and affordable - decision based on your answer.  If you like the wine chosen for you - bottles of which are ordered by Covell in only small qualities - you can buy a bottle to take home at a 10% discount.

Our date didn't feed us, presumably because copious amounts of alcohol + no food = money well spent for him.  When out with girlfriends, however, we assume you're not looking for the same result and would therefore prefer to put a little food in your stomach.  We saw other patrons enjoying cheese plates and such, but if you're looking for something more substantial and still broke girl-friendly, we recommend any of the following nearby restaurants: Little Dom's, Edendale Grill, Red Lion Tavern, Umami or Figaro.

For those of you who aren't hipsters, the local bars might be a bit intimidating. If you're feeling brave, however (or have an asymmetrical haircut), The Thirsty Crow is one of our favorites.