This Week, We Drink to Heal the bay

Abode Restaurant & Lounge is everything I like in a Santa Monica retreat:  It's cozy, modern, sophisticated, comfortable - and really close to the beach.  Nothing beats a heat wave like a refreshing ocean breeze.  (Along with a cocktail-for-a-cause, of course...)

100% of the proceeds from the Tahitian Black Pearl Martini go toward ocean protection.  In addition to a 12 millimeter Tahitian black pearl, you get to take home the satisfaction of knowing that you and your liver did something good for the environment.

If protecting the Santa Monica Bay is not enough to pull you in, try Abode's "Seven Till Seven" M-F Happy Hour.  Ten sumptuous "small bites" are 7-bucks each, and for an additional $7 the establishment will pair them with a flight of three two-ounce pours of wine.  Premium well cocktails are also $7. 

Martinis are normally offered for $10 during Happy Hour... however if you mention The Liquid Muse, this week, you will get them for $7! 

Owner Anastasia Israel gives special care to her cocktails, and even brings in fresh herbs from her own garden for drinks such as the Lavender Martini and the Spa Cocktail.  One of my favorites is the Elderflower Green Tea Martini, which infuses organic green tea with vodka, is topped with Elderflower liqueur and garnished with beautiful edible flowers.

In addition to a wonderful cocktail line-up, Abode offers a multi-course vegetarian Garden Menu for $75; brunch with champagne or Mimosas; and a three-course business lunch for $28, Monday through Friday (martinis not included...).

Please e-me if you try the Tahitian Black Pearl Martini.  At $300, it may cost a pretty penny but it's a small price to pay to keep our ocean beautiful.