At 410 Austin St., east of downtown, La Ruina creates a Tropical American atmosphere in a historic structure. The Modernist in the Pearl neighborhood, whose former owners are behind the new idea, offers a menu of specialized rums, tequilas, mezcal-based cocktails, and house-made sangrias. According to the venture’s owners, the specialty drinks at La Ruina with Latin American roots, like mojitos and Pina Coladas, will be served by mixologists with more than 20 years of combined experience. Partners Harmel and Gerry Shirley previously ran The Modernist, a bar on East Grayson Street renowned for its inventive cocktails and an amazing selection of non-alcoholic spirits-based zero-proof drinks.

La Ruina has a mix of modern and conventional decor, featuring dimly lit booths and accents of pink and floral motifs. In order to set the mood, the room also has a striking brass chandelier that was taken from the recently closed Cadillac Bar downtown. The bar has a spacious patio in addition to a nice interior area for drinking.

La Ruina serves a wide range of cocktails that can be converted into spirit-free drinks. Try one of their rum cocktails, the Buzo De Las Perlas, which can be non-alcoholic, depending on your choice. It is made with coquito butter, orange & lime juices and served slightly frappe’d.