In winter, we all want to embrace those warm, welcoming atmospheres– places that feel like secret hideaways, sheltered from the cold outside. After, a luxurious new concept by Chef Curtis Duffy and wine director Michael Muser fits the bill with a futuristic scene. Located next door to the already ultra-successful two Michelin star tasting menu-centric restaurant, Ever (1330 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 6060), After, focuses on the after-dinner scene.
The bar opened in October, debuting with a total of 275 spirit options, all seen in a gorgeous walnut liquor display. The inspiration for the bar came after wine director Muser noticed diners looking for a nightlife option after leaving the hot dinner spot it’s connected to.
It’s the perfect place to curl up with atmospheric dim lighting and a variety of beverages to choose from. This isn’t Duffy and Muser’s first run, either, as they co-owned Grace, a three-star Michelin restaurant that closed five years ago. As they already owned some unused space, they decided to move forward with a bar.
After could be considered a continuation of Ever, as they worked with Lawton Stanley Architects, the same designers that created Ever’s abstract and futuristic feel. There’s the bar of course, but don’t miss out on the insulated hightop or low-top booths. For an extra relaxing evening, book a spot in the Fireplace Room, a twist on the modern library complete with a burning fireplace. It’s a stately and compelling place to gather with friends for an evening that feels compellingly similar to an English countryside mansion.
Covered in Venetian plaster diners can also find at ‘Ever’, the interior design evokes images of lunar landings, outer space, and sci-fi movies. There’s definitely a futuristic feel to the bar with an otherworldly 14-seat, curved bar, and chairs from a renowned European designer.
The bar is luxurious but customers can still find tributes to old-time Chicago taverns– from the backlit back bar and a walnut-centric liquor display. Expect top-notch service along with affordable beverages like beer, spirits, wine, and cocktails.
Ever’s lead bartender Luis Rodriguez is in charge of cocktails and has divided the menu into three sections — one allows for a spin on loves classics, another features non-alcoholic drinks, and the last, pairs drinks with a featured menu item like hibachi, caviar, and more. Expect some rare spirits as well, including vintage pours from the 1800s, 1900s, and 2000s.
After will accept walk-ins, but there are also reservations available online. There are some cool rooms available for larger parties, such as private spaces like the Observatory, which holds parties of 10 or more, or Canvas which is perfect for hosting corporate affairs, weddings, and more. The main lounge in After will take up about 4,000 square feet, along with a rooftop terrace, and two private dining rooms. Find out more about the event spaces here. https://www.ever-events.com/
After is closed Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday but is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4 PM to 12 AM. Reservations are already live.
[Featured photo shows renderings of the bar by Lawton Stanley Architects]
Address: 1338 W Fulton St. Chicago, IL 60607