A space formerly known as Maxim’s de Paris, which served French cuisine and fine wines to an audience of food lovers, politicians, and celebrities from 1963 to 1983, is set to become a private club.
The interior, which once was Maxim’s de Paris, has been a city-run space for the last 22 years. Now, Gold Coast’s Astor Tower iconic space will be revived as an exclusive neighborhood social club.
The City Council just approved the $680,000 sale to the couple, Adam and Victoria Bilter, who lives in the famous tower. The space has become renowned over the years, known for its original design as a famed 19th-century French restaurant. With lush staircases, decadent mirrors, and burgundy accents, is about to be a private members-only space.
Diners of the past French club include Liza Minnelli, Frank Sinatra, and The Beatles, as Maxim’s De Paris initially introduced Chicago’s first discothèque, along with the art of classic French cooking.
The new Astor Club plans to bring live music, dancing, and international food and drink items, alongside events like cooking classes, wine tastings, and art shows. While the space’s original Art Nouveau interior was originally designed by Bertrand Goldberg and owned by his wife, Nancy Florsheim Goldberg, the new owners don’t plan to radically transform the space, and instead hope to restore it as best they can.
Bertrand Goldberg’s work has defined Chicago’s architecture, with the iconic “corn-cobs” of Marina City standing out as one of the most widely recognized buildings in the city. Nancy Goldberg became a standout, truly influencing Chicago’s culinary scene, and was instrumental in the success of her husband’s work, offering feedback and advice. Now, the legacy lives on. To inquire about membership, click here.
Address: 1300 N. Astor St. Chicago, IL 60610
[Featured photo by Joann Carney via BertrandGoldberg.org]