The invitation to the media preview of the hotly anticipated Roosevelt Room promised a night inspired by 1920s Hollywood glamour, and by all accounts, that’s exactly what it delivered. The red carpet of what’s being billed as Toronto’s “first true supper club” was lined with faux paparazzi snapping shots of skeptical partygoers. Inside, the atmosphere was pleasantly toned down, the art-deco inspred decor perfectly nailing the swank of Hollywood’s Golden Age. With three open bars serving a myriad of cocktails, Toronto’s gliterati seemed at ease unwinding under the dim lights. While flapper dancers performed, lipsmacking molecular cocktails were served up to those willing to wait –most notably the Beefeater Gin Fizz, a playful combination of egg whites, vanilla syrup, ice, gin, soda, cream and Triple Sec, finished with a blowtorch and a candied lime rim.

The evening’s menu was created by chef Trevor Wilkinson (he of Lobby and Trevor Kitchen & Bar fame) and was apparently inspired by the menu at the first ever Academy Awards. Prime steak tartare, spicy jumbo shrimp with horseradish marmalade and tuna niçoise served on warm potato skins were highlights. Though our experience was free, expect a night at The Roosevelt — which opens to the public this Friday — to burn a hole in your pocket, with some cocktails and entrees costing upwards of $40 each. And with a valet and concierge service set to give guests a true Hollywood experience, one thing the Roosevelt Room makes clear is partying like a celebrity sure doesn’t come cheap.

- Daniel Barna