The Eastman Lounge has been transformed into the Temple Bar & Grille, and this is a Temple worthy of worship. Located at 109 East Avenue --- a convenient location for a break from those upcoming summer festivals --- you'll find a pleasant surprise.

Mike O'Leary, previously the owner of Milestones (now High Fidelity) decided to take a new spin on the bar scene. You won't find live music here, but instead a lounge area. I wouldn't call the place sexy or cutting edge, but definitely comfortable and cool. A coat of new paint, a few couches, and flat-screen televisions surround the place. Not to mention jazzy artwork under low lights, which gives Temple a polished feel. I checked it out on Friday during happy hour for that much-anticipated cocktail after work to start the weekend. The crowd inside was professional types, relaxing and drinking beer.

Blue Moon and, of course, Guinness are on tap in this Dublin-inspired bar. Grab a pint to wash down some of the tasty food. Temple opens at 11 a.m. during the week and the owners hope to bring in the lunch crowd to their cozy spot; the menu features the typical bar food along with a variety of paninis and sandwiches. Once the temperatures rise above 60, there are plans to expand Temple Bar and create an outdoor patio for people-watching and enjoying the few months of warm weather.

Speaking of, it's almost that time of year where every weekend there's a festival to attend. In a few weeks the Lilac Festival will be here (May 11-20). Shortly after that we have what looks like one of the best line-ups for the Jazz Fest, (June 8-16) and then the Corn Hill Festival (July 14-15). Of course East End Fest, Park Ave Fest, Greek Fest, Italian Fest, and any other reason we can think to party will be showing up on the calendar of events. Save a seat for yourself at The Temple to catch all the action.