The Early Word on Revamped Cocktail Bar Ah Sing Den

Ah Sing Den, brainchild of mother-daughter duo Trudy and Micki Spencer, debuted last month on East 6th Street after East Side Showroom unexpectedly shuttered. Named after the owner of a Victorian-era opium den in London frequented by elite writers such as Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle, Ah Sing Den stays obediently on theme with Asian-influenced "tipples and morsels" and alluring surroundings. Read on for the early word on the sips, bites, and space.

Drinks — Like East Austin Showroom before it (both Spencer and Spencer productions), Ah Sing Den has a notable craft cocktail program comprised of both signature and classic cocktails. Zagat recommends the Burmese Mission, made with Thai basil and syrup made with a Japanese spice mixture.

Food — However, "not even the cocktails can overshadow the Asian-inspired bites at this well-stocked, dimly lit bar," cooed Tasting Table. The website’s ideal meal includes the salmon nori cigars, mussels ("heady with lemongrass broth") and dessert with either the chocolate mochi or forbidden rice pudding. Rob Balon described the menu as "small but innovative."

Atmosphere — As to be expected, design maven Mickie Spencer wows again with the space. Zagat pointed out, it’s "accented by embellished light fixtures, tropical colors and cozy tables for close conversation." Arianna Auber with Austin 360 agreed, "The space is lovely and inviting, with Mickie Spencer’s usual striking design touch."

The overall experience — Some Yelpers lamented the loss of East Side Showroom; "They tried to improve it and it was a downgrade," complained Yelper Austin B. However the new aesthetic and flavors won over most reviewers. Plus, Ah Sing Den makes for an ideal late night snack stop because the kitchen is open until 1:30 a.m. Not hungry? It can still be a feast for your eyes—Zagat reported that it’s great for people watching.

• Ah Sing Den Opens With Asian-Inspired Drinks and Food [EATX]
• East Side Showroom’s Asian-inspired replacement now opened [Austin 360]
• The 13 Best New Restaurants to Try This Week [Tasting Table]
• Ah Sing Den [Zagat]
• Ah Sing Den Opens on E 6th St [Dining Out with Rob Balon]