Le Club by Partage

This light-bite sibling of Partage opened less than a week ago from the date of this review, so of course I hastened to check it out. Atmosphere: Echoes of Partage's design in the snug space, but with its own posh stamp. As might be expected from its mission statement, champagne was the key motif, from bottles to bubble lamp fixtures to color scheme. Rotating French art was screened over the bar. Bar chairs seemed a tad low for the vertically challenged. I had intended originally to just order a small snack, but that quickly went out the window after perusing the menu and hearing Matthew describe the specials. Champagne Problems ($23): An elegant drink with a gentle spiced citrus bite. Oyster Special ($20): Got me with the mention of "cheese". Half dozen BC mini bivavles, pungent but clean zesty taste, might have liked the crisp yuzu chip garnish to be more evident for the texture contrast. Champagne Flight: The Regular level at $40 (Telmont Réserve Brut, Drappier Blanc de Blanc, Pommery), very decent pours. Cheese Board ($25): Most excellent selection of soft, hard, mild, sharp cheeses, great variety of accoutrements, and fab crusty baguette. Jalisco Sour ($20): Interesting twist, the berrilicious wine top lending a subtle smooth juiciness to the sour base, and followed the liquid level down (rather than become muddled or dissipated) while the glass was drained. Value: A YMMV. The bites were very shareable, drinks and food were quality. Service: Very winning and informative from Matthew, and from what I observed the other fellows behind the bar also.