Situated on Montgomery Street, an easy walk from Union Square, the Bubble Lounge has been demystifying Champagne since 1998. The co-owners wanted to create an atmosphere conducive to sipping bubbly, while at the same time having such a large wine list as to make the sparkling option accessible to everyone.
They succeeded.
The Bubble Lounge Decor and Menu
The front of the establishment consists of three pairs of French doors behind a narrow patio area, allowing passers-by a perfect view of the interior. The building used to act as a courthouse and prison in years gone by, but this isn't immediately apparent during the first steps through the entrance.
Red brick walls are adorned with all manner of paraphernalia; from retro posters that take the viewer on a trip through Champagne nostalgia, to mahogany shelves displaying old bottles and unusual glasses all the way to the high ceiling.
Seating is in the form of comfortable red velvet sofas and armchairs, arranged around low tables. Guests can sink into the chairs while they choose from one of the three hundred labels, perhaps ordering from the eclectic menu as well. The salads and sandwiches are fitting for the Lounge's concept, an example being the Brie and smoked duck with fig jam. And, of course, there's oysters and caviar.
Another excellent idea is the cheese selection. Several types have been sourced from around the world, each chosen especially to complement the Champagne.
Private Function Rooms at the Bubble Lounge
For parties desiring a little more privacy, there is the Krug Room. Named after one of the finest Champagnes in the world, this room is tucked away in the cellar, where the building's history as a jail becomes apparent. Low, arched ceilings and narrow passageways are from the original structure, and the owners even found shackles embedded in the concrete when they refurbished.
However, with a lick of paint, subtle lighting and leather sofas, the area that must have once housed the cells has been transformed into an intimate VIP area. There is also a long, cavern-like room next door that becomes a dance floor every weekend.
The Bubble Lounge is perfect for a romantic evening, birthday celebrations or even a different after-work drink. But it doesn't come cheap. A bottle of agreeable Champagne and a light bite costs around US$100 plus tip. For people on a budget, there are sparkling wines available that are reasonable in both price and quality.
However, the Champagne is an intricate part of the whole experience that really shouldn't be missed.
John Clarke - I am a UK-based 747 pilot who enjoys both fiction and non-fiction writing in my spare time. My favorite genres are humor and travel. I ...
