Perfect December Evening at Coal Vines

Ahhh--December!  Chill in the air, bustle of Christmas shoppers, the magical beauty of the Plaza lights, pizza roasting over an open...oh wait that's supposed to be chestnuts isn't it?  Mrs. Ref here to report on our December GAS Club meeting.  The festive evening began as we viewed the Plaza lights (driving round and round and round to find parking!) and a short walk later, entered the corner space previously occupied by ReVerse.  Greeted by a larger than life-sized print of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra on the back wall, Coal Vines rocks a cool vibe with the bar wall lined with wine bottles, a wall of windows facing Brush Creek and dark tables in a dark space occupied by a crowd filled with Christmas Sprint--or wine--or something...  But there really does seem to be a fun, festive, warm feeling in this space.  I do have fond memories of the place when it was Reverse as I spent a few evenings with my work buds over happy hour there. 

The new space seems to maintain a sophisticated aura even if the menu is bit "dumbed down" for this suburban crowd. The menu is brief, but that's a blessing when you're with a group and easily distracted.  I shared the White Pizza with tomotoes, mushroom, and spinach with Grandpa and I loved the crispy, flavorful crust, but I can't say I was really impressed with the pizza---with just five(?) basic offerings I would expect something closer to perfection.  Still,  I enjoyed it, and pehaps the abudant Ricotta and lack of salt would be perfect for someone like Mr. Ref who thought it was quite wonderful.
I like to think of myself as someone who knows a thing or two about wine (maybe not more than 3 things), but I found the wine list thin, moreover, our server seemed to know less than I.  She was friendly and trying--even bringing a sample of a wine that she personally liked, but "unable to find" the one Grandpa wanted.  Not sure if there was much more than 20 bottles offered--but guess that bottle got lost in the "crowd".
Yes, I've eaten better pizza, seen more interesting, extensive wine lists, but I can't say I've had a better time that I did on that perfect December evening when the GAS Club convened at the Pizza and Wine bar called Coal Vines.  Final Score 4 of 5 (extra points for ambiance)