Renowned fashion designer Coco Chanel once said, "I only drink champagne on two occasions, when I am in love and when I am not." The late Ms. Chanel made an excellent point: champagne can bring out the celebration in everyone it seems.
Coupes opened in December 2022, located in the tony Shops of Highland Park on Oak Lawn Avenue
For those who have never been inside, some things are immediately apparent, says Eric Chiappinelli, who is the co-owner. “They’ll notice an elegant, welcoming space,” he says, punctuated by a unique, centered circular bar and a circular ice trough with a dozen bottles for by-the-glass pours.
The pallet is a relaxing soft green and pink, with intimate banquettes, tables, and a lounge area for larger groups.
Coupes is especially distinctive around the holidays. “We decorate beautifully, have more live music, and feature a special selection of seasonal cocktails,” says Chiappinelli.
He considers Coupes to be a neighborhood bar for the Park Cities and South Highland Park. “We are here to stop by and enjoy a glass of champagne or wine, or celebrate birthdays and anniversaries as well as engagements, weddings, and graduations.”
Chiappinelli takes pride in differentiating the bar from others in a similar space. “First is our champagne-driven focus, though, of course, we have plenty of still wines, too,” he says.
In September Bureau du Champagne, USA honored Coupes as one of their 10 best restaurants and bars for enjoying champagne. The list is compiled by the association that represents the houses and winegrowers of Champagne, France recognizing establishments that celebrate the sparkling wines from the region. Other U.S. cities in the top 10 included establishments in Miami, Baltimore, Chicago, and New York.
“Every wine and champagne we offer is either French or from Texas,” says Chiappinelli.“We have a full bar with a great cocktail program, and our food is curated with small plates that enhance our champagnes and cocktails.”
Coupes features a dozen or so champagnes and sparkling wines by the glass daily, plus “Five different flights with themes like all rosés or all champagnes made by women-led brands,” says Chiappinelli.
“The experience at Coupes is more than a glass of wine; it is a superb glass in a beautiful setting with a friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive team.”