Concierge.com's insider take:

When Cure opened in 2009, it became a linchpin in the development of Uptown's Freret Street district, now one of the city's fastest-growing nightlife areas. Located in a renovated firehouse, this contemporary cocktail bar sports an airy, smoke-free vibe with plenty of elbow room, cozy banquettes, and an intimate courtyard for alfresco imbibing. The rotating staff features some of the most creative mixologists in town, with a constantly changing cocktail list that reflects both the season and their collective tastes. "Winter Is Coming" pairs a heady rum with mellow walnut liqueur, cream, and chocolate bitters. A tiny kitchen runs late into the night (Monday through Thursday until midnight, Friday and Saturday until 2 am) serving small plates and sophisticated bar food from Sazerac-roasted almonds to a more substantial short-rib sandwich layered with shiitake mushrooms and gruyère.—Pableaux Johnson

Open daily from 5 pm.