The Xavier Schipani iconography sets the tone. Part midcentury clip-art, part contemporary graffiti; it tells you that Irene’s honors the past while looking to the future. Sandwiches, rotating blue plate specials, and classic snacks like pimento cheese and pigs in blankets are the focus here, but you won’t find them using dried onion soup. Be warned that the cocktails pack a punch, but you can go to the coffee window the next morning if you need a pick-me-up.
This article appears in May 5 • 2017.