New Windy City bars pop up out of nowhere each week, and Matisse, a quaint underground lounge tucked away on West Diversey Parkway, is no exception. Co-owner Ivan Torres says it only took three weeks to transform the former Jillian’s Bistro into Matisse, a hopping nightspot that perfectly juxtaposes grittiness and swank. The short turnaround time meant minimal renovations. So Matisse has a lived-in, dive bar feel.
What to expect
Open the front door and you’re greeted by a giant replica of “Dance,” the famous 1909 Henri Matisse painting of a jovial group of naked people holding hands and grooving in a circle. It’s a nod to the bar’s motto: “Eat well, drink better,” and inside, people aren’t afraid to oblige. The diminutive (though not claustrophobic) space is dimly lit with vintage red lamps and zillions of candles. There’s also exposed brick, subtle TVs seemingly only used on game day, a red cement floor and original artwork on the walls. The room’s centerpiece, a roaring fireplace, makes the smallish room even cozier.
Crowd
A mix of rowdy after-work cats doing shots and mellow thirtysomethings unwinding with wine.
Sounds
No frills here. A behind-the-bar stereo kicks out the usual dance music.
At the bar
You can’t leave without trying the house specialty, a lip-smackingly potent white wine sangria. On opening weekend, the bartenders (including owner Torres) couldn’t pour it fast enough.
What to wear
Anything from jeans to your nine-to-five best.
If you’re hungry
Cheap daily food and drink specials.
Glaring problem
The ladies’ loo only has one toilet, while the men’s has a stall and a urinal. Unless you’re willing to rock some Depends, the bathroom line on crowded nights can be hellacious.
Bottom line
A chic, relaxed spot with killer sangria. Perfect for a first date or an after-work cocktail.
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Matisse
674 W. Diversey Parkway
773-528-6670
