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We didn't think it was possible, but hidden in Mount Vernon one finds a taste of the big city at an affordable price. The stylish cafe/restaurant/bar and lounge XS calls Charles Street home, but once you make your way to the second of this gem's four stories, you'll swear you're in downtown Manhattan.
Vibe: This four-story spectacle may seem a bit overwhelming and even flashy at first, but once we settled in we were quickly won over. Depending on the hour, the multifaceted XS serves folks seeking an early morning breakfast or cup of Joe, a romantic dinner over Asian-inspired cuisine or a low-lit lounge with an extended drink menu.
Crowd: A mixture of young professionals, artists, students and partiers can all be found at XS. Being four stories high provides plenty of seating and the wide layout keeps things from getting too crowded. (The to-go counter on the first floor has crowding issues, but the mash comes and goes in waves correlating with UB's class schedule.)
Libations: The cocktail menu offers extensive options for drinking fans. The bar features sake, martinis, drinks on the rocks, a wide variety of wines, domestic beers and hard-to-find imports. Get a closer look at some XS poisons.
Sounds: Every night of the week, from 8 p.m. to close, a DJ spins beats to keep the night alive. On our visit, techno filled the atmosphere. The really cool thing is that the dj perches 15 feet above the main dining area.
Service: Our service was consistently fast, as our waitress was friendly and on point. All of our appetizers and drinks arrived within minutes, and our entrees only added a few minutes to the wait. Impressive? When the food hits your mouth you won't believe how fresh and full of flavor it is, making the quick service even more satisfying.
Bottom line: If you're not careful, it could be easy to run a high bill. But with several appetizers and entrees for less than $10, those who need to watch their wallets should not be afraid to indulge in XS's great atmosphere.
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