Sambar is adjacent to Ballard's hidden gem, Le Gourmand, and is in fact run by the same owners. Sambar is tiny, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in a hip atmosphere. I've eaten there a half dozen times and haven't had a bad meal yet. Sambar specializes in cocktails and even if you profess to not like them, Sambar will break down your resolve. The menu is small and portions are appetizer-sized – perfect noshing. Order a few off the menu and be sure to listen for specials as they usually reflect something wonderful cooking in the adjacent French restaurant. Also, Sambar is open late: to midnight, M-Th, and to 2am on Fri and Sat.
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