I am not a vodka person. I am especially not an infused-vodka person. To me, non-infused vodka reeks of hairspray, while infused vodka reeks of pretentious cocktails and strained conversation. But levels of pretension and strain are low at Razzy’s, a dive bar as yet undiscovered by local graduate students who’ve invaded such former holes-in-the-wall as Charlie’s Kitchen. And at Razzy’s, the infused vodka is damn good.
Maybe it tastes even better because its competition is $6 pitchers of light beer. A draught would fit in better with Razzy’s décor, perhaps, with its Christmas lights and classic-rock-heavy jukebox. But during trivia nights or Sox games, or when they’re just hanging out, people at Razzy’s knock back the infused stuff willingly.
The vodka comes in three flavors: pineapple-cherry, apple pie, and chocolate-cherry. All are infused on site. They’re served on the rocks in portions that make for easy conversation or willing participation in Friday karaoke. (The last time I was there with a group, the count was three to two in favor of chocolate-cherry, closely followed by apple pie.)
The vodka has a perfect complement, and it’s not the chicken fingers. It’s the free bowls of popcorn, endlessly refreshed as the bartenders pop more. The sweet-and-salty combination is a winner that befits its local following.
Available for $5 at Razzy’s, 585 Somerville Avenue, in Somerville. Call 617.623.9784.
