Sometimes pounding a beer with the jukebox blaring is just the thing, and sometimes a little quiet reflection with some sophisticated ambience is what's needed. Stop by Remy's, 225 E. Monroe St. It's just the place for jazz, class and cocktails. It's the kind of place where Marilyn Monroe could hang with her favorite gent. Drop by, soak up the atmosphere and have proprietor Matt Schwartz whip up a Marilyn Monroe martini. It's a little sweet, a little colorful, a little dry and very sophisticated.

And, because the liquors involved are different densities, they float in different layers, which is very mysterious looking. Although honestly, a lot of things look mysterious after drinking three or four Marilyn Monroes.

How to make it
In a cocktail shaker over ice:

• 1¼ oz. Absolut Kurant
• 1½ oz cranberry juice; pour into a 6 oz martini glass
• Add ½ oz  Chambord
• Gently pour champagne on top to fill and garnish with a cherry.

Story published Friday, March 5, 2010 ( Volume 5, Number 2 )