Champagne, Martinis, and Fresh, Plump Oysters?

[rp1760]

A few close friends would like to get together during this holiday season to enjoy conversation and a few of life's simple pleasures. Since Paris, sigh, is not an option, we are searching the Twin Cities for a festive place. I know of Meritage, and Sea Change. Are there other places we should consider? (Note: we will not be having dinner. This will be a late afternoon fete.)

Thanks, and Happy Holidays!

[ibew292]

Most people on CH don't like Stella's Fish Cafe but for Happy Hour I find it very good. Oysters from Coastal and at HH $1.00 per.

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Stella's Fish Cafe
1402 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408

[Brad Ballinger]

If you are truly "into" oysters, I would steer you to Meritage. They have their own supplier (not Coastal). You will dig the atmosphere of the bar section. And I'm pretty certain they have a full liquor license.

[dalewest]

+1 for Meritage. Last time I was there they had a pretty decent happy hour special on the oysters (2 for $3). Its a beautiful spot as well.

[Foureyes137]

Another vote for Meritage...oyster selection is bar-none in the cities right now, ambiance in the bar is first rate, and the champagne selection is tops.

With the oysters however, I have to recommend the muscadet they have for glass pours. It is bright and a great compliment.

They have a full license and make a decent martini (low ball, up, olives please!).

[mull0263]

Another vote for Meritage.... Chef's choice oysters 2 for $3 during HH (Tu - F 4 to 6 PM) are a steal given the quality.

[mitch cumstein]

How about Barbette or any steakhouse bar in town? Even the living room bar at the W, maybe Prohibition would offer the wine list and menu from Manny's, no? Oceanaire? I know there has been talk of the food quality decline after Chef Kimmes left the kitchen, but the sourcing should have remained in tact. I think that Meritage and Barbette would evoke Parisienne Brasserie in the afternoon.

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Oceanaire Seafood Room
1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Barbette
1600 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Manny's Steakhouse
825 Marquette Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55402

Meritage
410 Saint Peter St, Saint Paul, MN 55102

[gryffindor249]

They have been getting fresh oysters at The Lexington of late...I would call ahead to see if they are available. In any case, there are few better atmospheres in which to enjoy a martini then their bar...

[Codetron]

I'll put in a big vote for Sea Change. Sit at the Waldorf bar (the curved seating area that wraps around the kitchen) and let Holly the raw bar expert serve you some of the best oysters in town. The bar makes great martinis and has a good selection of champagne.