BEHIND BARS

As I write this column this week, I am sitting on a flight on the way to Manhattan.

I make this trip just about every year to allow me to get a taste of big city living again, and take in some shows as well. All next week will be dedicated to giving you a firsthand look, complete with pictures on the best restaurants and bars to check out when you hit New York.

We are going into the boroughs as well. This promises to be excellent for anyone interested in New York's metropolitan lifestyle.

Tommy Condon's

I recently read an article explaining that England's pubs, normally famous for vast selections of different kinds of beers, were experiencing a downward trend. So much so, that with the state of the economy, many patrons are just staying home to enjoy their pints. You wouldn't know this by looking inside Tommy Condon's at 160 Church St., downtown. The place has gotten creative with their beer selections as well. Here are just a few ideas for all you Irish music sing-along fans: The Black and Red is Guiness and Killians, The Croen Float is Guiness and Cider, The Three Star is a pint that's equal parts Guiness, Harp and Bass. One of the establishment's most popular items is the Rose O'Grady, which is Harp served with a lime. Check out Tommy Condon's on your way down to the Market next time. It's a rompin' good time.

Squeeze

Meet Reay Rountree, owner and bartender at Squeeze, 213 East Bay St. Reay Has been in the business bartending since the days of ACME at 5 Faber St. He certainly has come a long way since then. Reay's idea was to have a sophisticated bar that remained friendly and comfortable. If you have not had a chance to squeeze in to Squeeze, give it a go. It is a small space, but one that has a huge martini list and is growing in popularity.

Chai's Reggae

Wednesday nights the sounds of the islands can be heard coming down King Street.

Chai' Tapas Lounge hosts reggae nights and the music is intoxicating. There is nothing better than a mojito served while taking in the awesome music from reggae band Mystic Vibrations. There is never a cover. For more information, call 722-7313.

Healthy cocktails

Well it's week nine and I have done it.

I am officially down 46 pounds. I have opted to go to 60 now.

This week started off just like any other. I started jumping rope. My trainer, Marietta, seemed to think it wasn't a smart idea, because in her opinion I wasn't ready for it.

Obviously you know I had to show her up. I started doing 40 and took a break. Then came another 40 and then one more round of 40 as well. Well about the time I had hit No. 118, I pulled a muscle in my leg. Trainer is always right. It's all good. I am better now and am up to just under 200 of them a day. I want to get up to 600, but don't hold your breath. This week's healthy cocktail comes to us from a friend at the Rockville Regatta. It's called a Pineapple Twister. Take fresh pineapple and mince it in a blender, then pour 1 ounce of vodka, and soda water into a rocks glass and top with the pineapple. Shake and serve with a pineapple garnish.

If you have a great club promotion or cocktail that you would like to share, drop me a line at lroberts@postandcourier.com.