Here's a look at two new venues that offer event space and fancy cocktails.
1. Gilt Bar took over the former Aigre Doux space in late February. Decked with a starburst chandelier, antique brass mirrors, and tufted leather sofas, the venue is available for full buyout. The main dining room seats 75, and a lounge at the front seats 45. Off the main dining room, an elevated area lined with reclaimed theater chairs and leather banquettes can host semiprivate functions for 30. Slated to open in May on the lower-level, a private dining room with its own bar and sound system will seat 50.
Executive chef Brendan Sodikoff, formerly of the French Laundry and the Ritz Paris, offers a menu of American fare prepared with local ingredients. Specialties include roasted beets with green apple, mint, and almonds, oysters on the half shell, and the Purist pasta dish with shaved Parmesan and pecorino cheeses and cracked white pepper. At the 100-year-old bar, mixologist Paul McGee prepares cocktails such as the Maple Leaf, made with rye whiskey, maple syrup, lemon, egg white, and cinnamon.
2. The Exchange opened in Wicker Park in late January. With banquette seating, patterned wallpaper, and floating light fixtures, the cozy lounge is available for buyout and can host receptions for 99. Craft cocktails incorporate ingredients such as orange bitters, grapefruit juice, and agave nectar. Punch options such as Swimming in It—a blend of gin, chamomile tea, honey syrup, sparkling wine, and lemon and tangerine juices—come in a vintage bowl and serve four to six guests. Boutique beers and fine wines are also available.
