What is it about those tiny bubbles that can elevate moods and make everything feel just a little more celebratory? Get your fill of sparkling wines at Air’s Champagne Parlor, whose owner Ariel Arce has masterminded a collection of thoughtful choices from around the globe.
WHO TO TAKE: YOUR FRIEND WHO EXCLUSIVELY DRINKS BUBBLY OR THE ONE THAT’S LOW ON CASH AT THE MOMENT
You may have seen our previous posts on Riddling Widow, which we absolutely adored. Well, consider this place Riddling Widow 2.0. They’ve moved their quarters upstairs and transformed into a sweet, art deco den of sparkling splendor.
There are quite a few selections that are priced reasonably, so it’s easy to go for the extra bottle! Prices start at $28 with the majority under $55. But if you insist on splurging, there are many choices for you to explore as well. Regions covered: France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Greece, Spain, and the good ol’ USA.
There’s also an extra special deal every day of the week at the so-called Parlor Hour, which happens from 5:00 to 7:00: get three glasses of bubbly and snacks at an unbelievable $30! Themes vary for each day. Tuesday is for rosé, Wednesday showcases female winemakers, Thursday hauls out the bubbly from Spain, Friday from Italy. The weekend gets a little more exotic with unique grapes featured on Saturday. Sunday offers their “Drops of God” selections of wines that are worth way more. (that’s the day I want to go)
We accompanied our sipping with an assortment of light bar bites—the hamachi tartare and the duck confit, which came with a side of spice and crunch and lettuce for wrapping it all together. The place has since limited their menu to more snack-type food like oysters, caviar, charcuterie, truffled frites and cheese selections. The service here is splendid and friendly. I especially wanted to give a shout out to Amanda, a host supreme, who flawlessly managed the crowds and made our time at Air’s even more welcoming.
AIR’S CHAMPAGNE PARLOR 127 Macdougal St (betw w 3rd/w 4th Sts)
