Venturing out on the town on a frigid Tuesday night does not necessarily set expectations of a hoppin' scene.  However, at Bin 28 you may very well be surprised.  On this past Tuesday evening, the metropolitan chic restaurant was well attended with not a stool left at the generous bar.

Upon entering the front doors, you are presented with a well thought out draft drape to protect those enjoying the warm ambiance inside from the bitter cold outdoors.  Pushing the drape aside, you are welcomed into an inviting open dining and bar area that buzzed with good music and cheerful chatter.  Coats can be conveniently hung at the front of the house so as not to clutter the eating area and guests are welcomed to their table with a refreshing carafe of fruit, mint-infused water and a menu to impress. 

Your server takes a moment to explain the small plate and communal options so that each guest is sure to understand that, if hungry, several plates should indeed be ordered.  You are then onto your drink order.  While wine is the specialty of the house there is a full bar option for those who prefer something different.

The evening began with a 2009, Sonoma County, B. R. Cohn Chardonnay that was surprisingly smooth and fruity.  Amongst 4 of us we ordered 6 plates to share.  All of which were quite delicious, but in particular we gobbled up the grilled hanger steak with sweet potato puree and shaved chestnuts.  The combination of flavors was fantastic and the medium-rare steak was perfectly cooked. 

The Maine crab cake with green apple and fennel salad was another big hit along with the hand cut parmesan herb frites, a type of french fry. These frites were so addictive that we ordered another round as well as an order of the sweet potato frites which were equally as scrumptious.  The outrageously good dipping sauces that accompanied the frites only added to the gluttony. 

As we picked and talked our way through our first bottle of wine, we decided to make our next selection a bit oakier and went with the 2008 Estancia Chardonnay Monterey County which paired nicely with the remainder of our meal.

The experience at Bin 28 was perfectly delightful and will definitely be a place to return for good food and wine and a fun vibe. The spacious back room is something to consider too for either a cozy setting or a larger group.   Either way, you'll be sure to enjoy this one-of-a-kind local hot spot.

Bin 28 is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5-10 p.m. with dessert and cheese until 11 p.m. and drinks until 12 a.m.

Visit www.bin28winebar.com for more information.