Since turning into a Gastrobar, O'Dowds has made quite a few changes, including a new spring menu. You'll also love the ambience and  feel of the classy new decor. Last week I went to O'Dowds to sample the new drink and food menu. I highly recommend trying out the new menu. Here a just a few new items to try:

Shareables

1. Shrimp Wontons

These shrimp stuffed wontons are seriously the best thing I have ever tasted. They have a crispy outside and a soft creamy inside. If you're a fan of Chinese food and shrimp, you're going to love these. Don't forget to dip them in the delicious sweet and spicy chili sauce.

2. P.E.I. Mussels

These mussels were extremely delicious and satisfying! They almost melt in your mouth. The best part is that they're not too fishy, you can tell that O'Dowds uses only the freshest ingredients. You get ½ a pound of Prince Edward island mussels steamed in beer brother and smothered in garlic, shallots, and saffron. You also get a side of a gluten free French baguette.

3. Social Cheese Board

This board is perfect for cheese lovers. Every high-quality cheese you'll ever want is featured on this dish. It's the perfect shareable plate served with  with crostini (or crackers), preserves, and mustard.

4. Hummus Platter

Who doesn't love hummus? O'Dowd's hummus is served with cucumbers, roasted tomatoes, Greek olives, feta cheese, olive oil, and a delicious flatbread.

5. Braised Pork Belly

This is also a great side to share. This braised pork belly comes on skewers that are easy to eat. The meat was soft and delicious. You'll get a side of sweet and spicy mustard sauce to go with it and fennel slaw.

6. Roasted Beet Salad

This beet salad was delicious. It's served with poached beets, strawberries, mandarin oranges, mixed green veggies, goat cheese, and toasted pecans. The cider-citrus vinaigrette is to die for.

Drinks

Now for the really fun part: O'Dowd's new drink menu. There are so many different drinks to choose from and they're all equally delicious and visually appealing. Two of the most popular drink menu items are the Bottled  Lavender Bee's Knees, The Manhattan Calling, and the Lavender Lemon Drop Martini. Also be sure to check out the three new Jameson Whiskey flavors.

1. The Bottled Lavender Bee's Knees

The drink contains Hendrick's Gin, lavender simple syrup, honey, and lemon. It's just the right amount of sweet.

2. The Manhattan Calling

If you're down to drink something slightly stronger, the Manhattan Calling is the drink for you. It consists of Bulliet Rye Blvd., The Calling IPA, Sweet vermouth, and brandied cherry.

3. Jameson Shots

O'Dowds has an array of Jameson that they serve. Be sure to check out their new flavors that go down pretty easy. The three flavors featured in the photo are Jameson Caskmates, Jameson Cooper's Croze, and Jameson Black Barrel.

If you're looking for a real steal, head down to O'Dowds during happy hour from 4-6 pm from Monday-Friday. They have 4.00 snacks and you can get draft beer $3.50.