Lantern Bar: An Adult Spot for Drinks or Dinner

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Lantern, the justifiably acclaimed restaurant from chef Andrea Reusing, is a must-dine spot in Chapel Hill.  What in-the-know locals have discovered is that the same delicious, Asian inspired cuisine can be had in the much more intriguing atmosphere of the Lantern Bar.  Accessible through a separate entrance around the the corner from the main restaurant, Lantern Bar has a transportive quality. It is a cozy, dark space visually dominated by the large red lanterns over the booths and the large bar.  You definitely don't feel like you're in Chapel Hill, or anywhere else in the south. It's the kind of spot you might wander into on a side street in a larger city, and yet it is steps from Franklin Street.  Come for the wide selection of handcrafted cocktails, imaginative wine list and tempting menu of Asian treats.  

The Food

Lantern's food is held to a very high standard and have never had anything "bad" there.  Many are still trying to get over the loss of the Korean Fried Chicken on the menu.  Hopefully, it will reappear one day.  Until then, there are seasonal offerings like the smoked eggplant and consistent favorites like the Arctic Char Bento to satisfy your cravings.   Typically, we come here to share appetizer plates, but the full menu is available as well.

Smoked Eggplant with Pinenuts at Lantern

 

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Sake and Tea-cured Arctic Char Bento at Lantern

 

Lantern Charcuterie

The Drinks

The Red Geisha is  a refreshing combination of fresh strawberry puree, lime, ginger and vodka.  Perfect for a warm summer evening, it was refreshing and not too sweet.  With the charcuterie, we tried the 2011 Freisa from La Casaccia.  It paired well with the rich pork flavors of the pate and the rillettes.

Red Geisha at Lantern

 

The Atmosphere

Dark and sexy.  As one friend has said, "The lighting there makes anyone look good."

 

The Service

All the servers are very knowledgeable about the food, cocktails and wine.  The appetizers come out as they are ready which works for some people and not others.  The servers are quick to clear empty plates and keep water glasses filled.  The room is small, so the servers are able to observe your table and fulfill requests without being intrusive.