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In a neighborhood that somehow glimmers as much as it fades, this upscale wine shop / wine bar adds a bright patch of European class. Owners Ashley and Jay Donayre, strong believers in sampling before buying, hold weekly tastings that encourage a liberal sip before customers decide on the right bottle or glass. Since the bar (a long, dim hallway of couches and small tables) and the store (well-stocked with over 350 vintages) are divided by a completely transparent glass wall, you’ll likely be ogling the shelves as you drink one of the menu’s 35 international vintages and nosh on an eclectic selection of cheeses and cured Spanish and Italian meats. Such attractive advertising is no coincidence. Donayre encourages patrons to browse the store, purchase a bottle and for a $15 corkage fee, pop it open at a table next door. — Melissa Noble

First Thursday of every month, 7:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

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