On a warm evening as the sun faded over Davis Square, I wandered into Foundry on Elm on a Monday for its $2 oysters and of course, to sample from the cocktail menu. Foundry on Elm has a phenomenal location, with outdoor seating and open windows, as well as marble countertops and plush red leather seats. The restaurant became busier throughout the night as large parties gathered and stood talking and couples slid into booths. I sat at the stylish full bar, as per usual, with a view of the live goings-on and a few televisions.
The first Foundry cocktail I tried was the Sardinian Sunset, made of olive oil gin, aperol, Pimm’s, lemon and crushed grapes, served on the rocks and garnished with a grape and orange slice. I was skeptical of the olive oil gin, but this drink was very flavorful. As a huge fan of Aperol, I loved the subtle fruitiness of this unique drink and the gorgeous orange tint.
My second drink was the Bubble Bath, which the bartender told me was by far Foundry’s most popular cocktail. In a coupe glass and decorated with a sprig of lavender, it included vodka, lychee, lemon, plum-lavender syrup and prosecco. Bubble Bath is an apt name for the drink; it’s bubbly, refreshing and delightfully fragrant. Both drinks were sweet without being overwhelming, striking a nice balance between the taste of liquor and the flavors of the drink.
Foundry on Elm does a pretty fine job at being what it is: a simple and classic restaurant and bar. None of the drinks were the most memorable or creative I’ve had, but they were very enjoyable sips in a nice atmosphere. Hearty and delicious meals abound to accompany the drinks, which are delightful, fun and refreshing, especially on a balmy October evening as the breeze drifts in to usher summer into fall.
Foundry on Elm, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville
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