Cypress

There was a place in my hometown that changed hands every six months or so. Every time you'd finally get an inkling to break free of the daily routine and try the spicy orange beef at the shiny new Hunan Wok, you'd find a Jack's Burger Hut in its place, with a Taco Corner in the queue not far behind it. Neighboring eateries were anchors, sitting back with quiet indignation, observing the revolving door—an ominous reminder of the industry's fickle nature. One they could fall prey to at any given moment. But most haven't, giving strength to the explanation that their unfortunate neighbor suffered from the old "Doomed-Space Syndrome." The face of Capitol Hill's 15th Avenue has been blemished by its own cursed spot. On the southeast end lies a space that's been home to more than six establishments (perhaps not the best noun) in recent years. What was once Hopscotch, Jake's, Mangos, Maguire's, and Kozak's now sees new hope in the form of the Mediterranean- flavored Cypress Lounge. Open just a few months, the bar—brainchild of Nectar owner Jed Smithson—shows signs of becoming a welcome resident. Its cavelike booths, comfy couches, and plentiful bar stools are often filled with people boozing (they tout ample beers on tap and a full bar), chomping on innovative menu items like polenta fries (the hummus plate ain't bad, either), or catching a game on one of the wall-mounted flat screens. The decor seems a bit confused, with warm antique glass light fixtures coupled with paintings splattered Pollock-style, but overall it has an ample amount of allure. Enough, we hope, to stave off that pesky reoccurring DSS. AJA PECKNOLD