Just stepping inside the threshold at The Commodore, any dull weeknight becomes tinged with a little glitter of old world glamour. The sleek space is all black and white; crystal and glass. The bar’s history includes such famous guests as the Gatsbys. The hotel once housed the Ma Barker gang (before they kidnapped William Hamm.) It’s an excellent place to lay your own plans for adventure, or just dive into one of the expertly made cocktails and call it a Friday night odyssey.
The bar staff has given every spirit and every cocktail attention and forethought. The cocktail list is built entirely with bottles available within a day’s drive. If you’ve wanted to sample some of the locally brewed booze, but your local L.Q. doesn’t carry a wide array: Now is your chance. Flights are available (on custom-made boards).
Or, if that’s too much commitment, start with any of the cocktails. The Fitzgerald is as classy as they come. The name comes from F. Scott, who reportedly drank gin because it wasn’t detectable on the breath. (Fitz, that’s vodka, but we’ll forgive you this time.) DuNord’s Fitzgerald Gin is mixed with lemon sour made from scratch, classic angostura bitters and finished with a lemon twist. The glass it’s served in shines like the Chrysler Building and affords a reassuring weight in the hand. This is a drink of substance, elegance and a bit of a bargain for just $9.
Cocktailing on Crocus Hill has never been better.
The Commodore Bar and Restaurant
thecommodorebar.com
79 Western Ave. N., St. Paul
651-330-5999
