Classic Comfort xx

The owners of a new business were inspired by a trip they took three years ago to Melbourne, Australia.

At that time, champagne was already the drink of choice for Krystal Curtis and Scott McElhaney. In downtown Melbourne, they visited The Champagne Lounge and enjoyed its seating areas and art.

After that, the married couple sought out additional ideas in Greece, Costa Rica, England, France, Belgium, Canada and Mexico.

Their goal was to create a champagne lounge that is laid back and non-intimidating, yet classy. The decor includes a 1938 Baby Grand piano.

McElhaney said they looked at Vancouver as a potential location, but they knew they found the right site in Camas.

“Camas is up-and-coming,” he said. “It is a great downtown. We were looking for a lot of windows.

“The city was incredible to work with,” McElhaney added. “Any time we had a question, there was an immediate response.”

Curtis credits building owner Jerry Nies with being very accommodating.

Beverages at Krystal’s include French champagnes by the glass or by the bottle, sparkling wines from around the world, northwest wines, hard ciders, champagne cocktails and mimosas. Souvenir “Kool Kat” logo champagne flutes are available to purchase.

Beer from Heathen Brewery is on tap, and gluten-free beer from Harvester Brewing is also available.

Non-alcoholic beverage options include Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, blood orange soda, guava soda, orange juice and water.

Food options include cheese fondue with bread from Columbia River Sourdough Bakery, a Camas Farmer’s Market vendor. Assorted meats can be added.

Fruit and assorted sweets are served with the chocolate fondue. Cheese, bread, fruit and meat plates are available.

Individual chocolate truffles from Liveat, of Camas, can also be purchased, along with cupcakes from Divine Bites.

Krystal’s Champagne Lounge, 500 N.E. Fourth Ave., is open for customers age 21 and older, Wednesday through Saturday, from 4 p.m. to midnight. The lounge is also available for private parties, events and corporate meetings Sunday through Tuesday and during the day before it opens for business Wednesday through Saturday.

A ribbon cutting will occur during this week’s First Friday festivities, at 5:30 p.m.

For more information, call 954-5981, email krystalschampagnelounge@yahoo.com or visit www.krystalschampagnelounge.com.