Shenlong

Chi is supposed to be part of everything that exists, a life force or spiritual energy, translated literally as "air" or "breath." And Chi Bistro has certainly breathed new life into the old Las Margaritas space on Old South Gaylord. The Asian-influenced room, with its clean lines and minimalist design, had such a calming effect that I floated right up to the pretty new bar and ordered the Yang cocktail ($7), made with Pama Liquor, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Finlandia vodka, pineapple and cranberry juice. Harmony is key to chi, and this cocktail was a tiny bit out of balance, with too much sweet and not enough tart. In an attempt to restore my equilibrium, I next tried a Spiritual Dragon cocktail, the Shenlong ($7). Made with Absolut Ruby Red, Pearl Pomegranate vodka mixed with fresh lemonade and pomegranate juice, this proved a much more harmonious mélange of yin and yang -- or in this case, sweet and sour. Asian philosophers believe that trouble, in the universe or physically, is a function of disharmony, of things being out of balance. Next time I need to regain mine, I'll go Chi one on.