Food & Drink, Bars
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The Realm
Realm of the 52 Remedies transports visitors through time where secret concoctions stimulating vitality and vigor are developed, cherished, and prescribed. This hidden speakeasy conjures up images beginning with an apothecary of the future, treasuring traditional Chinese medicinal treatments and methodologies, later to reveal a mysterious path to the past leading to where it all began. Serving cocktails and small plates inspired by the flavors, unique ingredients, and artistry of the Far East, enter a world not seen by many before and perhaps discover the cure to what ails you.
Unlike the traditional hidden speakeasy door, this conspicuous entrance, located inside Common Theory, is positioned purposely as a bit of a tease and a level of semi-transparency and austerity that almost insists that guests investigate further. Upon entering, guests are immediately brought from the present into the “apothecary”, an all-white streamlined apothecary of the future with shelves showcasing exotic herbs and tonics to smell and touch as well as unique merchandise for purchase. Guests must then find their way through a series of surprises as only designer Michael Soriano, renowned for his elaborate hidden entrances, can do.
The path ultimately leads guests into the “realm”, a chic 1920’s speakeasy with elements influenced by Chinese and Korean cultures from much further back in time. The space contains private group seating that resembles a giant lotus flower, as well as elevated private booths created from rustic timbers adorned with silk and flickering lanterns. A detailed textured plaster sculpture created by Heidi Brucks from H2 Finishes depicts a mountainscape directly behind the backlit bright green jade bar and large clouds suspended from the ceiling hover over the center of the central seating area.
The Inspiration
The Wushi’er Bingfang (Chinese: 五十二病方; pinyin: Wǔshí’èr Bìngfāng), or Recipes for Fifty-Two Ailments, is an ancient Chinese medical text discovered in the tombs of Mawangdui, dating back to around 215 BCE under the Qin dynasty. It provides over 250 elixirs, concoctions, incantations, and other medical treatments for various ailments. With about 9,950 characters, it is the longest of medical texts discovered in from ancient China and has paved the way for the development of Chinese medicine today.
The original manuscript of Wushi’er bingfang is kept at the Hunan Provincial Museum in Changsha.
The Apothecary
This space pays tribute to traditional methods of building health and longevity—physical, as well as mental and emotional. Enter into a place of calm and tranquility for the mind, body and soul and prepare yourself for uniquely crafted remedies for your ailments.
House Rules
We kindly ask for all of our patrons to adhere to the following rules while enjoying their time inside the Realm. Our goal is to preserve the intimate atmosphere while providing guests a memorable experience through our carefully crafted beverage & food offerings and superior service. Thank you in advance for your understanding!
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We will not be able to accommodate growing party sizes.
We are only able to accommodate for the number of guests stated in your reservation, and all guests must be present prior to seating. -
We are 21+ only. We check ID!!!
Please do not forget your ID! -
Please stay seated at your table unless using the restroom
No need to order from the bar top, let us come to you! If you need to run outside, please let your server know. This is to avoid additional traffic in our limited space. -
Photography is welcomed, but please refrain from using flash.
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Please be patient, our drinks are labor-intensive.
Patience is a virtue, You’re here to enjoy yourself, so please enjoy your company while we prepare your drinks. We promise it’ll be worth it! -
Speak-easy!
Indoor voices please! It’s a small space, so please be mindful of other parties. -
2-Hour time limit for all parties
Due to our limited space, we want to make sure other reservations and wait-listed parties are able to enjoy the Realm as well. -
4-way maximum split checks.
Pro-tip: Venmo your friends instead! -
Most importantly, we want you to:
Be present. Enjoy the space and ambiance, quality time with your friends and/or loved ones, and of course, your drinks!
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