The Press Room
In the West Loop there's a speakeasy in an alley that greets patrons with a large green neon sign that says "Down for a Drink" with an arrow pointing to go downstairs. After walking down the steps to the basement entrance of this restaurant/wine bar/cocktail bar, you step in and see an interior with lights dimmed low, classy polished wooden chairs and tables, exposed blue brick wall, and slow burning candles that have rising wax mounds. Quite simply The Press Room has sex appeal.
The building that houses The Press Room is over a century old; serving many different uses in the past but most noticeable/interesting to me: Casket Factory. The message that is on their website is worth sharing:
"We live and breathe hospitality. We believe there’s no more difficult or rewarding industry than this one."
The passion the owners have for their establishment is evident in the great wines and cocktails they serve. In addition, the food options show that care and thought is put into every aspect of this venue. Another plus is the happy hour that occurs Tuesday-Thursday from 4pm -6pm. With the happy hour you and your date can order $1 oysters and $7 Old Fashions or Martinis.
Reservation: Recommended.
Drinks:
Shaken
Casino- gin, luxardo, lemon, and orange bitters
Desert Flower- mezcal, hibiscus, lime, egg white
Stirred
Old Fashioned- bourbon, demerara, bitters
Vieux Carre- cognac, rye, sweet vermouth, and benedictine
Food:
Cheese & Charcuterie
Fried Brussel Sprouts- gorgonzola dolce latte, apple cider glaze, sunflower seeds
Crispy Cauliflower- fennel pollen aioli, pickled fresno, shaved fennel, harissa spice
Doppio Ravioli- eggplant, ricotta, gaetano olives, semi dry tomatoes, garlic scapes
Scallops- bacon marmalade, fava beans, artichoke hearts, celery, lemon yogurt
Burrata- marinated tomatoes, saba, oregano, sourdough
1134 W Washington Blvd Lower level Chicago, IL 60607