Colleen C.
Yelp
Admittedly, I spent quite a bit of time at "The Living Room" at the W Hotel. Frankly, it's cold as balls in Minneapolis, and I didn't really want to leave my hotel, so there we have it. Throw in a pretty decent happy hour, some super swanky, Alice-in-Wonderlandy-esque digs, and well...I'm cozied up with cocktails for the better part of TWO evenings. Yes, two. Don't judge me. It's cool here.
Happy Hour is tops! Specialty cocktails and select small plates for $5.
*Cherry Vanilla Fizz (errr, x2). Ice cold vodka, cherry, agave nectar, splash of gingerale. Served in a very large martini glass.
*Prawns: 2 for $5, not bad, sauce a little heavy.
*Meatballs with venison, lamb, etc: greek yogurt sauce. YUM. Also a bit heavy on the sauce, but tasty.
Stepping away from happy hour, the champagne by the glass is lovely, as is the specialty cocktail selection. Um, hello champagne cocktail with St. Germaine? Yes, please. Only one, I'm tipsy just thinking about it.
Service: I have a beef with the W here, and its not about the smiling servers who really are quite adept. But, why are the girls dressed like this? Your whole schtick is super class, and they are wearing skin tight black get-ups (zipped down, hiked up, slit up the side, you get the idea) and nude nylons? They look like Hooters graduates, get them some clothing and something they can actually look good in. I mean, really...nude nylons!? Ick. They look a cut below what they should, and I am guessing that's the dress code's fault, not their own. They're cute, class 'em up!
You can also order off the menu from Manny's (steakhouse next door), which is quite convenient after consuming 2-3 Cherry Vanilla Fizz' when a Chopped Salad is indeed, in order. Quickly served right to my posh lounging area!
Overall: A posh spacious lobby/hotel bar fit for an after work drink, extended happy hour, chat with a friend, great for groups with lots of plush seating arrangements,etc. The lighting is low (good) and the crowd is decidedly yuppie, but hey...$14 cocktails attract that kind of crowd, I'd assume.
Cherry Vanilla Fizz, I'll be making you at home!