Kitty’s Cosmopolitan Club: Emerald Glamour Emerges in Chicago’s River North

A new subterranean destination for cocktails and conversation has opened in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, bringing a distinct touch of emerald glamour. Kitty’s Cosmopolitan Club, located beneath the existing Crying Tiger restaurant, is the latest venture from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants and partner-beverage director Kevin Beary. The design, orchestrated by the acclaimed David Collins Studio, aims to create an immersive experience reminiscent of a bygone era of sophisticated speakeasies.

The entrance itself hints at the exclusivity within. A host station at the foot of the stairs is fronted by a backlit glass-brick wall, setting a tone that eschews understatement. This initial welcome signals that Kitty’s Cosmopolitan Club is designed to be a departure from the ordinary.

Emerald After-Dark Ambiance

David Collins Studio, which also contributed to the design of Crying Tiger, has meticulously crafted the basement space. The layout echoes the symmetry of a classic supper club, infused with the intimate atmosphere of a private cabaret. Emerald green drapery cascades from the ceiling, pooling behind the bar and lending the room a theatrical, tent-like quality.

Columns are clad in metallic bronze crackle-finish tiles, and dark-stained timber walkways define an abstract animal-print rug. Plush banquettes are strategically placed against softly illuminated glass brick walls. The overall effect is a rich and intoxicating blend of deep green velvet, reflective smoked mirror, polished nickel accents, and subdued amber lighting, creating a mood of luxurious indulgence.

Attention to Detail

The design is replete with details intended to captivate and linger. Pierre Paulin bar stools, upholstered in a vibrant mix of red and metallic abstract animal print, line the custom bar. Handwoven emerald macramé leather screens are employed to subtly divide the space, adding both texture and visual interest.

Art plays a role in enhancing the club’s ritzy ambiance. The 1978 painting “Circus Romance” by Robert Kushner hangs behind the liquor bottles. Furthermore, sculptural tiger table lamps and the staff’s distinctive green velvet dinner jackets contribute to the establishment’s sophisticated after-dark persona.

A Sharpened Cocktail Program

Kevin Beary’s cocktail menu is structured into four distinct categories: From the Bar, From the Cold Room, From the Trolley, and Low and No. While drawing inspiration from classic cocktail recipes, the drinks are executed with modern techniques and a focus on premium spirit selections. Notable offerings include a Kitty’s Gin Martini, stirred tableside with Old Raj 55° Dry Gin and a house vermouth blend, and a Japanese Whisky Old Fashioned featuring Yamazaki 12 Year Old.

A unique feature of the bar is its dedicated -16°F walk-in freezer station, reportedly a first for Chicago. This specialized environment allows for the optimal chilling of specific drinks, adding a ritualistic element to their presentation.

Indulgent Culinary Offerings

The food menu complements the bar’s maximalist approach. Guests can expect indulgent items such as caviar chips and dip, chilled shellfish, and warm Cinco Jotas Ibérico ham. Dim sum and rich chocolate truffles round out the culinary selections, offering a range of flavors to accompany the beverages.

Kitty’s Cosmopolitan Club is situated at 51 W Hubbard St Ste 200, Chicago, IL 60654, United States.

Key facts
Name: Kitty’s Cosmopolitan Club
Location: Chicago, River North neighborhood
Design: David Collins Studio
Concept: Emerald-themed speakeasy bar

The opening of Kitty’s Cosmopolitan Club offers a new architectural and interior design point of interest within Chicago’s vibrant hospitality sector. The project by David Collins Studio demonstrates a commitment to creating immersive, themed environments that blend classic design elements with contemporary execution, appealing to patrons seeking a sophisticated night out.

Source: Wallpaper, https://www.wallpaper.com/travel/bars/kittys-cosmopolitan-club-chicagos-review

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