The Second Glass

Going to Zon’s on a Monday night is like going to a party with very socially adept friends; everyone you meet introduces you to everyone they know. I came into the small and cozy bar alone, but I left with about half a dozen new friends. The bar area is dark, but cheerily decorated by whom I can only imagine is the owner’s aunt, who studied art in Eugene, Oregon and returned back East years later. The bar only has six stools, but the tight space, lit by Christmas lights and a monkey lamp, can comfortably fit a few dozen friendly faces.The other half of the establishment is a restaurant, with tables, but unless you are here on a fi rst date or truly want to be left alone, the bar is the only place to be. The menu ranges from burgers ($11) to mac and peas ($15) to baked halibut ($23), with a daily soup and regular specials. The wine list is very unpretentious with most wines by the glass or bottle. The beers should also to be noted, but neither the wine nor beer list is extensive – there is a Mag-Lite next to the mini-fridge containing the beer in case things get lost – they are more than adequate. I don’t live in JP, but if I did, this would be my bar.

2 Perkins Street, Jamaica Plain | 617.524.9667 | www.zonsjp.com

Don’t Miss:

Domaine Talmard, Burgundy, FR 2004
This was the bartender, Winston’s choice. Light with a strong acidity, but very agreeable. - $8/ $32

Sipp Mack, Pinot Blanc, Alsace, FR 2004
Balanced acidity, a touch sweeter than I typically enjoy, but the pour was heavy so there was no need to complain. – $6/ $24

Stags Leap, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, 2002
This is a steal at twice the price. Although I didn’t have the bottle (I’m not oppose to drinking a bottle by myself but it wasn’t really the time or place) I always keep an eye out for steals. This bottle costs more at some wine stores than it does at Zon’s. – $58 per bottle