Compass Star Sparkles with Evening Wine Bar

Winding down from the week is easier with fine wine, good food and a cool breeze — and The Compass Star has it all.

The new evening wine bar, complemented by a small plates menu, is elegant yet relaxed, offering deals on a variety of wines, including $5 glasses of the wine of the day. Black tablecloths and candles set the mood to sip and taste, Wednesdays through Fridays from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

"It's casual, with a touch of upscale," said resident sommelier Sean Andrade.

On the seasonal small plates menu is a sampler selection of Chef Rachel Zavala's finest house cured meats, featuring spicy andouille, dry cured pork loin, pâtés, and more. The menu also includes artisan cheese boards, international tasters and gourmet sliders, all of which are made using local, sustainable and organic ingredients.

The new venture has been a success since it began July 11, said Andrade, and the addition of the patio a few weeks ago has helped. "Business has increased," he said, adding that the outdoor area has expanded the restaurant's small interior space. "It also helps more people notice we're here."

With the new bar, a few doors away, The Compass Star might seem to be facing some stiff competition. But Andrade says that the two businesses complement one another. "We do wine and small plates; they do cocktails and comfort food," he said.

The Compass Star offers half price bottles of wine on Wednesdays, and $1 off wines by the glass on Fridays with the code "Foodie Fridays" or a mention of The Compass Star Facebook page.

Have you tried the new wine bar and small plates menu at The Compass Star? What did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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