With the success of their first location in New York, it’s only right that JIMMY partners Larry Poston, Johnny Swet and David Rabin decided to bring their cocktail bar to Chicago. The new location will be located in the James Chicago tucked behind the new Burke’s Bacon Bar (610 North Rush). The three veterans are pros at bringing sophistication to the bar scene and hope to do more of the same with this second time partnership.
“We’re excited to bring JIMMY to Chicago as we’ve long admired the city’s dynamic and influential restaurant and bar scene,” says partner David Rabin. “We’re thrilled to open our little jewel box of a cocktail bar in a prime downtown location at The James.”
JIMMY will feature a cool, contemporary atmosphere that’s perfect for a post-work or pre-dinner cocktail. The design is slightly influenced by the revolutionary era of the 70s. They want the bar to be seen as the perfect place to relax and have a drink, while enjoying a sophisticated and easy-going environment. The space is designed by James Beard award winning designer Thomas Schlesser so you know it was done with the utmost care and consideration.
The ambience is just an added bonus, the real deal for any type of bar/lounge is the cocktail. The art of the cocktail is the centerpiece of the JIMMY experience and is heavily influenced by classic cinema. Jonny Swet focuses his knowledge of mixology on carefully curating a cocktail menu that features classic drinks with a few twists in the ingredients. A sample of the cocktail menu includes:
Bondsman (apple brandy, vodka, lime, cranberry juice, agave and seltzer
Cucumber Vesper (gin, vodka, lillet, lemon and garnished with cracked white peppercorns)
Mexican Julep (tequila, watermelon, lime, agave and cilantro muddled in a silver cup with crushed ice).
Grilled Pineapple Mojito (rum, grilled pineapple, lime with muddled mint, topped with soda)
Dirty Little Secret (vodka, dry vermouth, olive brine, celery bitters, lemon and infused with a drop of A1 sauce).
“Each drink has a sophisticated combination of both balance and body, lending familiar styles a unique touch while mixing in memorable new creations,” says partner Johnny Swet. “Drawing inspiration from classic 1970’s films, the menu at JIMMY will offer a progressive twist on classic cocktailing by infusing modern ingredients and styles.”
Besides the amazing cocktails, JIMMY will also feature artisanal spirits from local and worldwide distilleries and of course it wouldn’t be a Chicago bar if it didn’t have something to nibble on. There is a special food menu that will include dishes like Goat Cheese Fondue created with basil, roasted peppers, capers and black olive with toasted baguette. For more information, feel free to call The James Chicago at 312-337-1000.
