There's been buzz surrounding the Liberty Hotel (215 Charles Street, Boston, 617.224.4000) since plans to remodel the old Charles Street Jail were first announced. Now that the doors are finally open, it's the Liberty's trio of dining and drinking venues that has us hooked. The Lyons Group's Alibi is a sophisticated lounge that's carved, aptly enough, into the jail's former "drunk tank." The space has a sleek underground feel, with a circa 1851 stone floor, brick walls, and plentiful leather seating. Along with a spacious outdoor patio, inventive cocktails, and a funky vibe, Alibi has all the markings of a hotspot - though the barred windows and cell doors won't let you forget its previous life. Upstairs, sunny eatery Clink has a similar setup, though its sandy-wood accents give it a warmer feel. Executive chef Michael A. Goodman focuses on small plates and inspired yet approachable dishes; his menu also offers tableside Japanese hot-stone cooking. Still in the works at the Liberty is Scampo, a contemporary Italian fine-dining restaurant helmed by iconic Boston chef Lydia Shire, due to open later this fall. We'll be regulars in no time.
