The Food Whisperer: Ayer history and cool drinks at Bar 25

Ayer offers up another great date night spot with Bar 25—a cozy and appealing space offering craft beers and cocktails, great food, and a friendly staff.

Inside Bar 25. (Courtesy photo)

Located in the same building as Union Coffee Roaster on Main Street, the restaurant has been open six months, and according to bartender and beer program coordinator Chris Hooper, business is very good. On a recent Saturday night, Hooper stepped away from the bar and talked shop. He said the stretch of rainy weather this spring dulled crowds a bit, but the brightened forecast helped break that plateau. “People were chasing the sun, but now it’s back to business,” he said.

Hooper even gave me a quick history lesson when I asked about two peculiar hand-painted portraits on the wall next to my table: One depicted Frederick Ayer playing the clarinet, and the adjacent portrait was of Dr. James Cook Ayer on the saxophone. Turns out, the two were brothers who made their fortunes a century ago; Frederick, a textile tycoon, and his older brother, a patent medicine manufacturer, were titans of their industries. According to the New England Historical Society, the town of Ayer was named in honor of Dr. James Cook Ayer. The musical instruments were added to the portraits for fun, a nod to Bar 25’s jazzy, cool vibe.

Speaking of cool, everything about the place exudes style. From the built-in bookcases, crown molding, and wainscoting to the wooden high-top tables and sleek bar, the interior of Bar 25 doesn’t fail to impress. The uniquely crafted cocktails and meal offerings make the restaurant a must-try for those who enjoy keeping it fresh and local.

“Our philosophy is to be as fresh as humanly possible,” said Hooper. “We don’t purchase juice except for cranberry juice because who has the time to squeeze cranberries?” he joked.

Bar 25 offers a a seasonally adjusted menu, locally sourced and made from scratch, as well as uniquely crafted cocktails, in a jazzy cool setting. (Courtesy photos)

I can attest that the simple watermelon margarita made with tequila, freshly pureed watermelon, and freshly squeezed lemon juice with a wedge of watermelon for garnish tasted like summer in a glass. Other offerings include the Cucumber Greyhound (consisting of vodka, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, and freshly squeezed lemon juice); New Orleans Pimm’s Cup (Pimm’s No. 1, Moti’s saffron-infused rosewater lemonade, and soda); and Violet Beauregarde (Triple Eight blueberry vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and elderflower liqueur). I can also attest that the saffron sangria tasted as lovely as it looked. Cocktails range from $9 to $14. Hooper said although the cocktails made from fresh juices are big draws, the most popular albeit surprising best-seller is the classic Old Fashioned containing bourbon, cane sugar, and bitters.

Hooper further explained that Bar 25’s seasonal menu proves to be good for staff and customers alike. “The staff is constantly learning, and it keeps things from becoming stagnant,” he said. Hooper said the food served at the restaurant is made from scratch and sourced as locally as possible. In fact, my Greek salad greens came from Little Leaf Farm in Devens. Other standouts include the house-made hummus plate and generously sized flatbread pizzas served on a slate. A slightly more adventurous diner might try a lobster roll on toasted brioche with pancetta and American cheese, or the hot dog  stuffed with caramelized onions with pancetta and American cheese, topped with caper aioli. Appetizers cost $8-$12, signature sandwiches $9-$24, salads $10, and flatbreads start at $12. The current seasonal entree is the half rack of fire-braised baby back ribs served with corn on the cob, sourdough toast, and asparagus cole slaw for $22. For those who can’t wait for the dinner bell to ring, the restaurant is open for lunch on select days.

Craft beer lovers won’t be disappointed with Bar 25’s thoughtfully selected brews, many of which are local. Feel free to direct any questions about the craft beers or cocktails to Chris Hooper; he truly seems to love his job and discussing his craft.