Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profilePearl Club
Chicago, IL · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Pearl Club's beverage program is a study in contrast: a Prohibition-era bank vault turned sultry cocktail den, pouring both inventive signatures and rare allocated spirits. The 14-cocktail list includes a clarified ube colada that guests rave about, while the spirits list reaches cult-level with Pappy and George T Stagg. Wine and non-alcoholic options round out a program that's ambitious but not precious.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Clarified Ube Colada ($17) for a balanced tropical riff, or the Juicy Fruit ($18) if you prefer a fruit-forward brandy cocktail. For something stronger, the Optimo ($25) layers rye, Calvados, and sherry. Spirits enthusiasts should request the Koval Millet Pearl Club Single Barrel ($18/22oz) or splurge on Pappy Van Winkle 15yr ($75/22oz).
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking creative, well-executed drinks will find much to like. Whiskey connoisseurs will appreciate the rare allocations and house single barrels. Those who prefer non-alcoholic options are well-served by a dedicated mocktail menu and NA beers.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are the prime time to experience the speakeasy ambiance, though the music volume has drawn mixed comments. For a quieter experience, consider an early visit before the crowd builds.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Craft cocktails run $16-$25, with classics at $16. Wine by the glass starts at $14; bottles range $56-$350. Beer is $6-$10 for regular, $7-$9 for non-alcoholic. Spirits pours are priced per 22oz or 11oz, from $8 up to $150 for Clase Azul Añejo.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The building's Prohibition-era history—formerly an Italian bank with mafia tunnels—sets the stage. The program pairs that old-world vibe with a modern cocktail list and a spirits selection that includes Pappy Van Winkle and George T Stagg, plus house single barrels from Koval and Stranahan's. The Espresso Martini uses a house cold brew collaboration with Whirlwind Coffee.
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 14-cocktail list balances creativity with approachability. Signatures like Clarified Ube Colada and Juicy Fruit show technique, while classics are priced fairly.
Menu strengths
- — Creative signature cocktails with unexpected ingredients like ube, Chareau, and banana.
- — Classic cocktails available at a reasonable $16, appealing to traditionalists.
Standout selections
- — Clarified Ube Colada – Rum, pineapple, ube, coconut, Meyer lemon ($17)
- — Optimo – Bhakta 1928 Rye, Calvados, Sherry Blend No.2, Benedictine ($25)
- — Juicy Fruit – Remy Martin V.S.O.P., peach, banana, orange cordial ($18)
Pricing: Classics $16; signatures $17-$25.
Wine
Wine list covers major regions with a good range of styles, from Albariño to Sancerre to Super Tuscan. Pricing is fair, with several options under $70 a bottle. No specific strengths beyond diversity.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse selection across France, Spain, Italy, and US.
- — Includes premium Champagne like Dom Pérignon 2013 at $75/$350.
Standout selections
- — Patriarche Père & Fils Rosé Brut – Crémant de Bourgogne ($15/$60)
- — Lagar de Besada Albariño – Rías Baixas ($14/$56)
Pricing: By the glass $14-$28; bottles $56-$350.
Beer
A modest but serviceable beer list: two drafts (Guinness, Stella) and a handful of bottles including Moody Tongue and Duvel. Non-alcoholic beers add flexibility. Pricing is in line with the market.
Menu strengths
- — Non-alcoholic beers from Best Day Brewing and Guinness Zero.
Standout selections
- — Moody Tongue Apertif Pilsner – Bottle, 5.0% ABV ($9)
- — Duvel Belgian Pale Strong Ale – Bottle, 8.5% ABV ($10)
Pricing: Draft $8-$10; bottles/cans $6-$10.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated non-alcoholic cocktail menu with three crafted options, plus NA beers. The cocktails are thoughtfully composed with ingredients like Seedlip, yuzu, and ginger. This is a standout for designated drivers and abstainers.
Menu strengths
- — Three crafted zero-proof cocktails with unique flavor profiles.
- — Includes non-alcoholic beer options from Best Day Brewing and Guinness Zero.
Standout selections
- — Celestial Garden – Seedlip Garden, celery, elderflower, lemon, soda ($15)
- — Comfortably Numb – Three Spirits Night Cap, pineapple, ginger, cinnamon demerara, lime, nutmeg ($15)
Pricing: Mocktails $12-$15; NA beers $7-$9.
Spirits
An extensive spirits list covering all major categories, with standout rare bourbons and ryes. House single barrels from Koval and Stranahan's add a personal touch. Priced per 22oz and 11oz, offering flexibility.
Menu strengths
- — Rare allocated bourbons like Pappy Van Winkle 15yr and George T Stagg.
- — House single barrel selections from Koval and Stranahan's.
- — Broad range including tequila, mezcal, rum, brandy, and amaro.
Standout selections
- — Pappy Van Winkle 15yr – Bourbon, 107 proof ($75/22oz)
- — George T Stagg – Bourbon, 136.1 proof ($85/22oz)
- — Koval Millet Pearl Club Single Barrel – American Whiskey, 110 proof ($18/22oz)
Pricing: Pours from $8 to $150 (22oz); half pours available.
How it sits with the food
While food is not the focus, guests have praised small plates like scallops and mushroom croquettes. The clarified ube colada's coconut and pineapple could pair with spicy or rich dishes, while the Optimo's rye and Calvados suits savory meat plates. Limited vegetarian options are noted.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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