February 14, 2006

Raising the Bar

Mint Julep Opens

Mint julep (noun)
 
1. an alcoholic drink made of bourbon whiskey (sometimes brandy or rum), sugar, crushed mint leaves, and shaved ice.

2. equally retro and refreshing, the 18-month-old Brookline boutique that just opened doors on a second store, on Harvard Square.

Distraught by the chain-ification of the area, Mint Julep owners Brooke Garber and Stephanie Nist wanted to bring a little funkiness back to the Square — to the tune of their new shop, which stocks labels like Ben Sherman, Tibi, and Ella Moss.

Even Brookline devotees might find themselves crossing the Charles to pick up additional lines from Ted Baker, Orla Kiely, and Rachel Pally — as well as local accessories from the likes of Garnish and Designs by Hillary.

The new location is so close to the eternal line at the Border Cafe, you can easily duck out and buy yourself a new getup before they’ve even poured your margarita.

Or, more fittingly, your mint julep.

Mint Julep, 6 Church Street, Cambridge (617-576-6468).