Happy birthday Blackbird! In the seven years of its existence the wine shop and cheese bar has established itself as a fixture in the Beaumont District and as an unpretentious refuge for grown ups. It’s one of the best wine shops in town for affordability and choice—owner Andy Diaz is often to be found buzzing around full of enthusiasm for his latest discovery—and there’s an adventurous cheese selection either to enjoy by the plate or to take home (or, if you’re a real cheese fan, both). The rest of the menu of charcuterie, salads, crostini and panini has an unexpected finesse to it (the Little T baguettes help) and Diaz has recently expanded into beer, adding rotating taps. With the profusion of bottle and wine shops that have markets and menu offerings, Blackbird may no longer be unique but it does well at sticking to its philosophy of showcasing artisanal producers, whether that’s an Italian cheese maker, Spanish winery or local brewer.
Tomorrow the Bird will be celebrating its anniversary with oysters on the half shell, shrimp cocktail, cake and FREE bubbles. Plus, all wine and cheese will be discounted at 10 percent off! Blackbird Wineshop & Atomic Cheese, 4323 NE Fremont, September 18, 6 pm–9 pm