Comfortably hidden below LIVE in the spot that used to house Goodnite Gracie’s in Ann Arbor, The Last Word bar opened quietly about six months ago. Their updated yet understated approach to nightlife compliments the almost antique, rustic charm of the place, accentuated by the candelight, the friendly and knowledgeable staff and the smattering of old photographs, books and reclaimed Michigan wood adorning the walls.

And it turns out that this relaxed atmosphere is a great backdrop for the real stars at the Last Word: the craft cocktails. All are made expertly from a wide array of ingredients both ordinary and extraordinary, and some of those ingredients are even made in-house. For instance, when we visited, I found out that they have been experimenting with making their own limoncello (an Italian lemon liqueur) that may someday be available to order.

Who knows? Maybe if you’re lucky the bartenders will also be able to read your mind and create a drink based on the flavors you like. In my case, the drink I liked the best was the one I asked them to make for me with the flavors of ginger, cucumber and lemon. But you may not even need that luck since overall unique and surprisingly tasty combinations of ingredients abound on their drink menu, inspired by the core spirits used in each. For example, they showcase spicy, smoky Mexican flavors with many of their mezcal cocktails while nodding to Italy with lemon, rosemary and vodka, yet keeping it stateside with drinks once found in a speakeasy of the roaring 20s.

When we first glanced at the menu, it was as if we were mesmerized by the endless drink choices on offer at The Last Word. Yes, you can have a basic gin and tonic made with top shelf Hendrick’s gin, but here, taking a chance on something you think sounds odd may just pay off with something extraordinary. And, if not, you can always share with your friends!

They also have appetizers, small plates and desserts that are perfect for sharing, and I’m pretty sure we ate every last morsel off of the plate. Whether it was the deliciously different fried chickpeas, the hummus, soft pretzels, the olives or the cheese plate, all the food was good, simple, with an elegant presentation that complimented the drinks well. And serious carnivores will rejoice over the selection of salted, smoked and cured meats available on the charcuterie plate.

From the atmosphere to the drinks to the food, The Last Word bar has a good thing going, so go check it out. It seems to be a welcome addition to Ann Arbor that you sooner or later may find yourself frequenting. After all, they describe themselves as “a lovely cocktail bar hidden a touch off the beaten path yet exactly in the right place,” and I think they may be right.

The Last Word Bar is located at 301 W. Huron Street in Ann Arbor and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 p.m. – 2 a.m. For more information, find them on Facebook and Twitter or check out their website at thelastwordbar.com.