Bars & Clubs
Fit for a King
The elegant Marben caters to the local condo crowd
Image credit: Ronit Novak
Concept: At long last, King West residents have a place to call home. In fact, home was obviously on the mind of Bay Street boy wonder–slash–restaurateur Simon Benstead when he opted to give his slick new resto-lounge the same name as his childhood residence in Suffolk County, England. Presumably, the similarities between the two properties end there. Far from a family-friendly retreat, this Marben—with its textured cotton wallpaper, white onyx bar and plush banquettes—has the stylish sex appeal of a James Bond movie. Secluded nooks are perfect for wooing a first date, while a spacious street-level patio and front bar area prove ideal for a serious Saturday night cocktail session.
Crowd: The aforementioned condorati mix and mingle seamlessly with BlackBerry-wielding investment types, freshly manicured fashionistas and the after-work advertising contingent. From Thursday to Saturday, resident DJ Eric Ling spins a crowd-pleasing playlist largely comprising funky house beats, with the odd injection of Frank Sinatra and Beyoncé.
Cocktails: With good-enough-to-guzzle drink specials such as the Lost My Cherry Blossom (fresh black cherry and pineapple juices mixed with Bacardi Vanilla, Chambord and prosecco, $14), one might want to be mindful of over-consumption. Bachelors viewed through martini glasses may be sleazier than they appear.
Marben, 488 Wellington St. W., 416-979-1990. Monday to Saturday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. No cover.
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