Cold cocktails are good even on a chilly night. Photo: Megan Stringer/Axios
👋 Megan here! The new Merci Jones bar is a great addition to a growing nightlife district north of downtown.
Dig in: The latest from San Antonio's Empty Stomach Group opened a couple of weeks ago for Fat Tuesday.
The vibe:Merci Jones offers classic cocktails at affordable prices in a casual, contemporary atmosphere. It's easygoing but not something you find every day, as prices for even a regular martini seem to climb ever-higher.
There's spacious indoors and patio seating for those who feel like people-watching.
What to try: The Army Navy ($12) with gin, lemon juice and orgeat.
Six word review: Tart, bright lemon balances sweet orgeat.
Pro tip: Go early. Cocktails cost $7 before 7pm.
Zoom out:The River North area has grown into a strong district, where you can easily bar-hop on foot.
Start with happy hour at Merci Jones followed by dinner at Shiro Japanese Bistro. Then catch a jazz show at River Sun and end the night at River North Icehouse.