Rande Gerber—the guy behind more than 25 Whiskey Bar-branded bars around the world—has shuttered Latin-themed Mexx and returned to what he's known best for. That is, whiskey.
So hit up the newly refurbished Whiskey Bar & Grill tonight for a soft-opening party hosted by Chicago-Scene.
Gerber's added a number of cushy leather booths and banquettes, flatscreens, reclaimed hardwood tables, and offbeat black-and-white portraits of legendary music stars Mick Jagger, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, giving it a more lived-in setting.
There's a Stoli reception 8-10pm, and a deejay spins. No cover.
Also going down this weekend . . .
FRIDAY
It's been open for about a week in its third location on Chicago Avenue, but Lush Wine and Spirits hosts a grand-opening party tonight. Free booze and bites. 6-9pm.
SATURDAY
Today is also the 76th anniversary of Repeal Day! Custom House shows its support with $5 cocktails: “Bathtub” Gin Rickey (North Shore Distillery #11 Gin, fresh lime, soda and a candied lime wheel), Presbyterian (Death’s Door White Whiskey, house made ginger beer and a lemon twist) and Rock n’ Rye (Templeton “Prohibition Era” Rye Whiskey, house made vanilla syrup and Crème de Cerise). 11:30am-11pm.
Legendary New Wave star Peter Hook of New Order plays a rare deejay set at Smart Bar. He'll also sign copies of his book (?!). Dark Wave Disco deejays also spin. 10pm-5am. $10 before midnight; $15 after.
SUNDAY
Gingerbread-infused pancakes. The Rudolph Bloody Mary. And the Winter Wonderland—made from bourbon and nutmeg. That's just part of the special pre-fixe holiday brunch on tap this weekend at C-House. We also love the fact that pastry chef Toni Roberts will be sending guests off with jars of holiday cookies, including her recipes so you can make them at home. 10:30am-3pm Saturday and Sunday. $25.
And those entertaining folks from out of town will dig the new Sunday Suppers happening at Blue 13. Make your reservation for 7pm to get hearty portions of Chris Curren's cooking. He'll serve everything family-style, and you'll get a main course, two to three sides, a salad and dessert for $20 each. Reservations only.
Audarshia Townsend is the creator of the local food blog 312DiningDiva.com. She also provides content for Dining Chicago, Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine, Playboy.com and Concierge Preferred.
