Everson Royce Bar

The only real marker for Everson Royce Bar is a simple neon sign that just says "BAR" glowing above an orange door set into a plain concrete facade. The entrance leads you into a compact indoor space dominated by a long, 40-foot marble-topped bar on one side and a blue tufted banquette on the other. But the whole place opens up once you walk through to the back. The main space is the massive back patio, a sprawling, open-air yard that feels like a neighborhood secret. Long picnic tables are arranged under strings of lights, creating a casual, communal atmosphere. Along one side of the gravel-covered ground, there's a full-length bocce court that sees steady use throughout the evening. The whole area has an urban backyard feel, right down to the large mural by the artist Junker that covers the back wall. The menu is built around well-made drinks without any pretense. You’ll find a focused list of classic and creative craft cocktails, a curated selection of natural and organic wines, and a solid tap list of craft beers. During the summer, frozen drinks become a popular order. For food, the focus is on straightforward comfort items meant to be eaten with your hands. The cheeseburger is the go-to order for just about everyone, served alongside a pile of fries, and the buttermilk biscuits are a constant favorite. Its size makes the patio a natural fit for large groups, and the bar makes it easy by allowing everyone to run their own individual tabs. There’s a paid parking lot right next door, which is a rare convenience in the Arts District.