With its focus on libations and laid-back conversation, the new Bedford Hills Wine and Beer Bar has “taken off,” says owner Marci Manfredonia. “We’ve been open only a few months, and the bar is jumping. People stop in after work or while waiting for a train. For some, it’s a night out with friends. Others meet family members there to catch up on household news.”

As proprietor of Custom Candle Co., Manfredonia had noticed that her customers often wanted to just sit and talk, but her shop didn’t have room. So she made room in an empty space next door, opening it up as community gathering place where people can talk and hang out with family and friends or wind down and meet interesting people after a long workday.

“I thought, ‘With all that good conversation going on, why not offer some beverages and maybe some small variety of food as well? And that’s how the Bedford Hills Wine and Beer Bar was born,” Manfredonia says. Favorite menu items include fresh mozzarella, tomato and basil or spinach and artichoke dip, complemented by local wine or beer.

The bar hosts events like informative talks, meditation classes, live jazz nights and game nights. (Next up is a Paint and Sip class, scheduled for 7 to 9 p.m., July 23.) It also hosts team fundraisers and caters small events like bridal showers, baby showers and engagement parties.

Location: Bedford Hills Wine and Beer Bar, 27 Adams St., Depot Plaza, Bedford Hills, NY. For more info, visit BHWineAndBeerBar.com.