We missed going to the (Astoria) Schooner all summer. 
When the Holens decided not to renew the restaurant space lease (and focus on their Baked Alaska Restaurant and Cooking School)- the local food critics assured us all that Hotel Elliot had kept the good things (martinis and menu) the same- and upgraded a bit in the already very nice decor.It was on a Wednesday- and (gasp) we decided to have our burger night at The Schooner- after late shopping for Thanksgiving groceries. Brett looked at the clock and said we could still make it to our usual The Depot Burger Night. But I said that The Schooner has great burgers (buffalo) and besides- I was really craving their fantastic and (locally) famous martini. It had been since early summer since we stopped in.
I was happy to see Frida- who works at Poshe Salon. She tends bar in the evening. Frida gives great facials. She is so cheery and upbeat- perfect for a bartender.
But the menu had changed. It was pretty and informational (about the history)- but no Buffalo Burger. I settled on Angus Sliders with Blue Cheese. They were actually pretty yummy. It is on the appetizer menu. Brett had the appetizer tempura lamb chops-served in a Marguerita glass. interesting. Kind of tasty.
I ordered my Blue Sapphire Martini. hhhmmm. warning flag was when asked, "Dry?" I smiled, thinking 'duh'. They should name this martini- "Lamaze Special".... it was filled with chipped ice!!! OK, my births were C-sections- but I took the natural childbirth class... and to this day- when someone is whining about how hard the work is- I ask if they want me to feed them chipped ice. (for those metaphor challenged- the husband/father feeds chipped ice to the mom while she is in labor and doing all the work)
If I wanted my gin on ice- I would order it that way. And it doesn't get served 'up'. We will be back at The Depot next Wednesday.