I hadn’t been to WA Frost in several years when I found myself there not once, but twice, last week. Surely this must be a sign, I thought. Et voila: Frost’s new lower-level lounge. Normally used for private events only, the cozy, cavernous basement is now open daily for cocktails and canoodling. Based on the abundance of wicker down there, it’s clearly doubling as a storage space for the outdoor patio furniture. Find an alcove—I like the one that shares a glass partition with the wine cellar— and curl up with a glass of Pinot. Exclusive to the Lounge are a series of “micro entrees”—smaller portions of fully formed concepts such as a grilled petite filet with butternut squash puree ($16). I prefer Frost’s sandwiches as bar fare, and the fried egg BLT with sriracha aioli ($10.50) never fails to satisfy (or soak up any excess alcohol). Happy hour is also available in lounge from 4–6 p.m. and 9–11 p.m., which are as good a time as any for select wines by the glass, a mini cheeseburger and fries, or a signature cocktail for $5 a piece.
WA Frost
374 Selby Ave., St. Paul
651-224-5715
