PUB CRAWL: Mission Bar and Tapas

 

If there’s one thing that Mission Bar + Tapas truly embraces about Spanish epicurean culture, it’s that life is meant to be savored.

 

The intimate Pittsfield, Massachusetts, oasis celebrates flavor. From the tangy spice of paprika-dusted garlic shrimp to the creamy zest of house-made aioli to the rich warmth of a smooth Tempranillo wine, each bite or sip fills the mouth with pungent layers of aromas and flavors.

 

Rotated monthly, Mission’s selection of Spanish wines features classic varietals like Garnacha, Albariño, and Monastrell, as well as several blends. And while the lively chalkboard behind the bar may list selections unfamiliar to many, servers are always more than willing to share their knowledge, make suggestions, and answer questions.

 

The only mixed drink available at Mission is dubbed the Black Ribbon, a distinct take on a Black and Tan that layers the darkest beer on tap (Great Divide’s Yeti Stout, for instance) with golden Pabst Blue Ribbon. But the ever-changing beer selection leaves connoisseurs perfectly satiated—with six selections of local and national microbrews on tap, as well as a sampling of bottled gems from England, France, and Germany, plus the recession-proof two-dollar PBR, served straight from the bottle. Other selections include those from local superstar Berkshire Brewing Company, and often from Brooklyn Brewery, Allagash, and others, varying among stouts and porters, whites and wheats, and amber ales.

 

The atmosphere is also well worth savoring. Mission welcomes visitors with window-seat cushions and a wealth of high tables, suitable for seated groups and crowds of standing minglers. The rough texture of the space’s Tuscan-red walls plays off sleek wood accents, and the pendant fixtures hanging from the antique pressed-tin ceiling shed light on the busy, patinated copper bar.

 

Live music is a major draw, with an impressive roundup of performers from across the country as well as locally sourced open-mike Monday nights. The combination of tasteful libations and delectable cuisine (in bite-size, shareable portions—don’t leave before trying the bacon-wrapped dates dusted with crushed peanuts) served in a trendy yet laid-back atmosphere has established Mission as the nightspot in Pittsfield and has helped energize the northern block of the city’s culturally reawakened main street. (JUNE 2009)

 

THE GOODS

Mission Bar + Tapas

Pittsfield, Mass.
www.missionbarandtapas.com