Absinthe Salon

The verdict

Even before you take a sip of absinthe at this boutique bar, you've already been transported to another time and place. The Absinthe Salon evokes the bohemian stylings of Paris circa 19th century, and serves up the heady spirit to match. The absinthe preparation ritual is hypnotic – a water fountain is placed on the table, and a sugar cube is placed on a slotted spoon, suspended above your crystal-glass of absinthe. The water slowly drips onto the sugar, which dissolves into your glass, making your beverage cloudy, and releasing its herby aromas. There's a three-drink limit per customer at the Absinthe Salon, for good reason. Though you won't feel any serious hallucinogenic effects, it certainly does have an effect on your feel-good levels!