Photo Credit: Will Blunt from Starchefs
You know that guy you wouldn’t bring to your mother’s house? Well, don’t bring him to The Violet Hour, either. If he’s not marriage material, he’s definitely not suitable for cocktail hour at one of Chicago’s most elegant and sophisticated bars located in Wicker Park.
The Violet Hour creates a fun, intimate, cosy, dimly-lit lounge atmosphere that’s perfect for a first date, girls night out, or a special celebration. And if you really want to get a glimpse of what goes into their popular drinks, The Violet Hour teaches a cocktail making class for beginners (another great date idea!).
The speakeasy vibe, alone, is a reason to put on your best attire for a night, required as a part of their fun set of house rules. There is also a rule stating that no cell phones are to be used inside the lounge, allowing customers to truly enjoy the experience and have real conversations.
Photo Credit: Studio Calabash
From the outside, the bar’s entrance door is hidden amongst the wall mural and there’s discreetly one light bulb designating access into the bar. Strolling by, the average person wouldn’t know what’s on the other side – making the location particularly exciting.
Known as the pioneer of Chicago’s craft cocktail movement and mixing artisanal drinks for the past ten years (with a culinary approach), the ambiance and soft music will make you feel like you’re in a different world. The craft cocktail bar is one of Chicago’s favorite spots and has been recognized with a 2015 James Beard Award for their Outstanding Bar Program.
The head mixologist known for his award winning cocktail recipes, Toby Maloney, has encouraged an incredible, talented bar team. The creative cocktail menu is an innovative collaboration between all ten of the bartenders, who are well experienced and have trained for three years.
Some must-try drinks on their spring menu include the Sedentary Lifestyle, the Tex Anne and the Heartbreaker!
Photo Credit: Studio Calabash
Make sure to add this hidden gem to your Chicago cocktail bucket list.
Location: The Violet Hour, 1520 North Damen Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622
Photo Credit: Studio Calabash
