First Look: Frank’s Oyster House and Champagne Parlor

 

 

 

 

 

I’ve been trying to establish an on-going Friday night ritual – one that used to be a regular part of life but somehow got misplaced – of a Friday night Happy Hour.  In past times we’d sometimes have a "regular" spot, especially in the summer when a particular lakeside deck was our destination of choice, and sometimes mix it up a bit.  I’m taking the opportunity now to visit lots of places, some new, some old favorites. 

 

I’m not quite selecting a place every week – either due to schedule or a desire to have a night out on my own – but am probably inviting folks out two or three Fridays a month.  It’s been fun and I plan to continue it for some time. 

 

 

 

 

 

This last Friday we visited a newcomer to the Seattle restaurant scene, Frank’s Oyster house and Champagne Parlor.  Frank’s is located in a neighborhood  northeast of downtown and sits on a block with a couple of interior decorating shops, one of which is more of an "antique" or at least an old-stuff shop. 

 

 

 

 

 

I arrived a few minutes prior to their opening time of 5:00 pm and was glad I did, as the line-up outside was already forming.  Just before the doors opened one of my friends joined me and we were able to secure a nice window spot large enough for the rest of the group. 

 

The interior is a do-it-yourselfer’s dream.  Recycled wood panels the walls in an eclectic pattern; furniture seems to mostly be unique antique or flea market finds; the big chandelier in the bar is made of recycled pipe and reminds me of one I’ve seen somewhere else. 

 

Frank’s  Happy Hour has specials on cocktails, beer, wine and food.  Since there were four of us we managed to make a good dent in the menu – both the food and the drinks.  The most popular drink at our table was the specialty cocktail of the night, the French 75, which is a lovely concoction of sparkling wine, gin, lemon juice and sugar.  The bartender did an especially nice job with the lemon twist garnishes!

 

 

 

 

 

We tried to eat our way though most of the discounted menu, but fell a little short.  Still we managed to sample the oysters on the half shell (three varieties); goat cheese deviled eggs; mini-lobster rolls; smoked fish chowder; cheddar cheese & ham biscuits; house-made potato chips; potato skins with truffle oil; and I think at least one other item which escapes me at the moment.  Yum.  I need to go back again.  Soon. 

 

Happy Hour was busy although later arriving groups were funneled into the dining room so that the lounge remained active but not jammed.  We had great service although I’ve heard from others that is not always the case.  I really like the idea of a great little neighborhood place like this – many of those arriving early seemed to be from the area and they were returning for  their own Friday night ritual.  Too bad it’s not in MY neighborhood but I’m glad that this sort of place is finding a home outside of the downtown area.