I am so overly tardy on a proper post – I just seem to get busier by the minuet at work, leading to longer hours and allowing much less time for inspiration and writing when away from the studio.

Although I had to peel myself away from my desk last night – I did make time to sneak in a bit of a catch-up with friends for happy hour.

We made our way to The Violet Hour and both drink and decor was enough to demand that I carve out some time to gush.

Although this hushed pre-prohibition inspired lounge opened in summer of 2007, it was just last night that I finally made my way through the unmarked, graffitied wooden doors.

Upon entry, you are thrown into a world of calming design, of muffled conversations and of a modest luxe that allowed me immediately relax. The ornate framed sign requesting all patrons turn off their cellphones made me giddy with ease.

Designed by architect Thomas Schlesser, the decor of The Violet Hour is about so much more than the beautiful furniture and fabrics seen throughout. The space was designed to inspire conversation – more of a salon – with the use of floor to ceiling velvet curtains acting as partitions to add intimacy and privacy for guests.

Even the open rooms are laden with precisely positioned ultra-high wing backed chairs to allow one’s group to feel segregated and secretive.

The lights are so dim that candles are necessary to truly get a sense of the copious pages that are their drinks menu.

As I typically find myself sticking to wine or bubbly over cocktails – I did find myself drawn to one of their creations – the Juliet and Romeo – selected the “third best cocktail in the states” by GQ Magazine.

Not only was I drawn to the charming cocktail coupe/saucer it was served in, the selection of ingredients were not to be passed up: gin, mint and cucumber infused rose water. It was truly one of the most delicious and refreshing cocktails I’ve had.

There has been a steady buzz about the Violet Hour from day one, garnering prestigious claims from Esquire Magazine, calling it “One of the best bars in America” and CondeNast who noted that it is “One of the best bars in the world“. Along with buzz, however friends, comes a wait. This chic scene does not take reservations and works on a first come first serve basis. Both a wonderful pro and a frustrating con; they only let a small number of guests in at a time – to ensure the art of conversation and cocktail is always center stage.

Although there is certainly an aristocratic flair to both the design and essence of The Violet Hour, I found that the staff was quite welcoming and our server, Krista W. was an absolute pleasure.

Whether sneaking away with your amore or celebrating with your besties, the gorgeously glamorous speakeasy The Violet Hour effortlessly impresses.

{photo credits} floor to ceiling curtains by michael robinson photography, other images from the violet hour website