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The Chicago Traveler

The Violet Hour

by Matt B on February 27th, 2008

The term 'hidden gem' is often used to describe places that are out-of-the-way or in less populated areas that have something great to offer. The Violet Hour in Wicker Park takes that term to another level.

the violet hourThis cocktail lounge with a speakeasy vibe to it is hidden. No street address or sign marks its entrance. Passersby outside only see a wood-paneled fa'ade plastered with concert bills. Those in the know find their way inside to the white-trimmed, bluish walls and dramatically high-backed chairs. Think 18th-century meets modern chic. A relatively small crowd of hipsters chatter quietly in the dimly-lit room, enjoying the cell-phone-banned space. Chandeliers reflect the flickering votive candles below.

the violet hourThe bar runs the length of the room, and bartenders mix up potent drinks made with freshly-pressed juices. There's no ice-slinging or 'dash of this, dash of that' here. These folks labor over each individual drink, making sure that it's perfectly measured and sublime. You won't soon forget the Hemingway Daiquiri or the Honeysuckle. Keep in mind, these high-quality mixes are also highly-priced, but each drink arrives with a sidecar for topping off. It's like getting a drink and a half.

The finger-food menu offers curried Rice Krispies squares and chorizo croquetas with garlic aioli. Try the deliciously sinful fried PBBB sandwich'peanut butter, bacon, and banana. Chances are you'll be spending quite a few hours at The Violet Hour.

But you have to find it first.

Photo credit: josephp, bhaggs

The Violet Hour: 1520 N Damen Ave; 773-252-1500
Sun ' Fri: 6:00 p.m. ' 2:00 a.m.
Sat: 6:00 p.m. ' 3:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult
Public trans: Bus # 50, 56, 72 or Blue Line train (Damen)
http://www.theviolethour.com/

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POSTED IN: Bars and Clubs

2 opinions for The Violet Hour

  • detail
    Feb 28, 2008 at 3:19 am

    it’s just one letter…but it should be NORTH Damen, not west;but the address does come up right when clicked on. I read your pages all the time & find your writng entertaining & informative..KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!

  • Matt B
    Feb 28, 2008 at 4:36 am

    Oops! Thanks for pointing that out and for your dedicated readership. I appreciate it.

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