Follow the black and white floor tiles to the bar here for food that is upscale and familiar, with a touch of "up north" hospitality that evades any trace of pretension. Across the street from the verdure of Loring Park, Lurcat is a fine place to grab a few appetizers before going out for a night of music, theater, or other entertainment. It's also the type of establishment good for taking a few friends after work, or for a date night. Slide on over to the bar for a lively atmosphere, especially right after work when the place fills up with folks trying to avoid grey-flannel-suit types. For sustenance, the bar bites include shrimp samosas with lemon-avocado dip and lamb sandwiches with harissa, cucumber, and yogurt. With a nod to the house's Gallic tendencies, the drink list features an Eiffel Tower Sparkle with Chambord, limoncello, and sparking wine. Like many other restaurants in Minneapolis, a daily happy hour runs from 4:30 to 6:30pm, with the promise of half-price tap beer and well drinks. Even if you're only on the bar side, do look in on the dining room for the elaborate frescoes, depicting scenes of the French countryside.