Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileBernard's
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Bernard's is a speakeasy cocktail lounge with a serious, story-driven approach. The drinks are precise and inventive, from the jamon-infused Old Serrano to the coconut-washed Whistle Pig in The Bernard. The spirits list is a deep well of rare and vintage pours, including an Armagnac flight spanning three centuries. A caviar-topped truffle martini signals the venue's indulgent bent.
- What should I order?
- For something experimental, The Bernard showcases coconut-washed Whistle Pig 10. The Black Truffle Pearl Martini is a theatrical choice, and the Armagnac Three Century Flight is essential for spirits enthusiasts.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail purists who appreciate technical skill and unusual infusions will find much to admire. Spirits collectors will be drawn to the vintage Armagnac and rare Japanese whiskeys. The intimate, upscale setting suits those seeking a refined, speakeasy-style evening.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are the prime time, when the lounge's dark, equestrian-inspired interior and candlelit ambiance come into their own. The venue's hidden second-floor location adds to the occasion.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Specific prices are not listed on the retrieved menu, but the presence of premium spirits like Louis XIII, Yamazaki 18, and a caviar bump on the martini indicates a high-end price point. Expect to pay accordingly for the level of craft and rarity.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The cocktail list is a playground of culinary infusions: jamon-infused whiskey, coconut-washed rye, and goat cheese-washed Seedlip. The spirits program goes further, offering flights that span three centuries of Armagnac. It's a bar that rewards curiosity and a willingness to spend.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A creative and technical cocktail menu, with infusions like jamon-infused Toki and coconut-washed Whistle Pig.
Menu strengths
- — Unique infusions and ingredients, such as Cinco Jotas Jamon and coconut-washed rye.
Standout selections
- — The Bernard: Whistle Pig 10 coconut washed, Amaro Montenegro infused with orange, Dom Benedictine.
- — Black Truffle Pearl Martini: choice of Haku Charcoal Vodka or The Botanist Islay Gin, truffle pâté, olive brine, truffle oil, with optional caviar bump.
Pricing: Pricing not available on the retrieved menu; a +35 Kristal Caviar bump is noted for the Black Truffle Pearl Martini.
Wine
A diverse wine list covering multiple regions and styles, from Russian River Pinot Noir to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Champagne. The selection is broad but not as distinctive as the spirits program.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse selection covering red, white, rosé, and sparkling from various regions.
- — Includes well-known producers like Veuve Clicquot and Whispering Angel.
Standout selections
- — Pinot Noir, Enroute, 'Les Pommiers' from Russian River Valley, California.
- — Mélange Rouge, Château Mont-Redon from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France.
- — Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Reserve.
Pricing: Pricing not available on the retrieved menu.
Beer
A compact beer list that includes familiar domestic labels and local craft options from Half Acre and Revolution. It serves as a straightforward complement to the cocktail focus.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local craft beers such as Half Acre Daisy Cutter and Revolution.
- — Offers standard domestic options like Coors Light and Corona Extra.
Standout selections
- — Half Acre Daisy Cutter APA.; Goose Island IPA.
Pricing: Pricing not available on the retrieved menu.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated non-alcoholic cocktail menu featuring Seedlip spirits, with creative options like goat cheese-washed Seedlip Grove and Seedlip Agave with orange amaro. It shows thoughtful attention to non-drinkers.
Menu strengths
- — Uses Seedlip spirits to create complex, spirit-free drinks.
Standout selections
- — The Bramble & The Daughter: Seedlip Grove goat cheese washed, raspberry serrano, citrus.
- — Whispering Pines: Seedlip Garden 108, cinnamon rosemary simple syrup, citrus, soda water.
Pricing: Pricing not available on the retrieved menu.
Spirits
An exceptional spirits program with deep verticals in whiskey, tequila, and Armagnac. Rare bottlings like Louis XIII and vintage Armagnac from 1888 set it apart. Tasting flights offer curated experiences.
Menu strengths
- — Exceptional depth and rarity, including vintage Armagnac dating back to 1888.
- — Curated tasting flights for Armagnac, Clase Azul, The Macallan, and Casa Dragones.
- — Broad selection across bourbon, rye, cognac, Japanese whiskey, Scotch, and more.
Standout selections
- — Armagnac Three Century Flight: Bhakta 1888, 1972, 2001.
- — Louis XIII de Remy Martin: a blend of up to 1,200 eaux-de-vie from Grande Champagne.
Pricing: Pricing not available on the retrieved menu.
How it sits with the food
The caviar service and high-end bar snacks, such as shrimp ceviche, are designed to complement the lavish beverage program. The truffle martini with caviar is a natural pairing, while the Old Serrano's savory notes could match a rich snack.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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