At a bar I don’t know, I’ll usually order off their menu or go for beer. I’ll try whatever they are saying is their specialty, or I’ll just pass on the whole mixed drinks affair. If I’m at some new bar I’m probably not trying it out as my new favorite spot, I’m probably visiting someplace and will never be back. I just want something tasty and easy.
Over the course of this summer I went against my better judgement and I tried to order boulvardiers at two different bars. Both times it was at a nice bar that appeared to have a modern cocktail program and both times led to lengthy discussions about what I was asking for.
Clark chukkas are one of my go to nice, and casual shoes (boots). The Clark’s are great value for the money too. I like their Wallabees too, but those tend to be pricier and are a less universal style.
A clean pair of Adidas Stan Smiths can look good too. Really any of the simple sneakers will look good with most outfits, like these, the Nike Cortez, or whatever. I don’t like sneakers that look too technical or chunky, but that’s just me.
Johnston and Murphy has a mixed reputation and are expensive, but I’ve liked the two pairs I’ve had from them. They’ve been worth their price too, the last pair I had from them lasted about 8 years.