Carlile Room & Sparking Rose

Sometimes the best things come in the form of a totally unplanned event. Which coming from a type A planner says something. Lately it seems that my life and that of others is so planned out, it's hard to just 'get together.' A few weeks ago something magical happened. A friend and I just got together (on a Friday even) for happy hour at a new Seattle spot by Tom Douglas, The Carlile Room. It was perfect. Excellent drinks albeit not so great happy hour deals. Oh well. I enjoyed my pink bubbles so much I found out where I could buy it in Seattle and promptly ordered a few bottles. (On a side note one should check out Mad Wine for good deals). My friend enjoyed their beer BUT they too thought the delicate bubbles of the rose were intoxicating and promptly ordered a glass and then another. I have to admit, I was hesitant to try The Carlile Room, especially since it has been promoted as a place to go before going to The Paramount. I had visions of a hotel lobby bar with ugly carpet. It is in fact does not even have carpet and great design work inside. As far as food goes, we only tried some small bites; however, the menu looked great. What we had was tasty: homemade chips and dips, little mozzarella croquettes and barbecue pork sandwich. My favorite were the croquettes, but really how do you go wrong with fried cheese?!? The best part was having time to connect with an old friend. Our lives can get so hectic, so planned, it was nice to be spontaneous for a change. And did I mention the pink bubbles? Those ALWAYS help a night go well.