The start of November’s always the slap in the face that puts a stop to our end-of-summer denial, but a slew of new and renovated spots to sip and sup outfitted with fireplaces makes winter more palatable. The bars’ managers have passed along their recommendations for fireside feasting, so go ahead and indulge; it’ll be a good six months before you’re seen in shorts again.
McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon
The newly opened Irish bar/restaurant is a sports fan’s cold-weather haven with nine 42-inch plasma TVs and plenty of bar and table seating for watching the games. The real gem, however, is the “den,” a separate, snug room dressed in dark wood and exposed brick with built-in bookshelves and a fireplace.
Fab fireside fare: Try a Blackened Chicago Blues Burger ($11), a 10-ounce whopper topped with bleu cheese and grilled onions, from the spot’s abbreviated menu (full menu should be available Nov. 14). We’re told they pull a good Guinness ($4.50) to go with it. 1206 N. State Pkwy. 312-475-9450.
Luxbar
This Gold Coast spot from the folks behind Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse and Hugo’s Frog Bar has the standard marble, brass and mahogany interior we’d expect to find in the neighborhood, but there’s also a menu featuring a surprising selection of comfort food. Sure, the place draws a slightly older crowd, but the marble fireplace on the main floor with booth seating on either side, plus a second fireplace upstairs, make it a place potentially worth partying with the parents.
Fab fireside fare: If there’s anything that jumping from the Jacuzzi into a snow bank has taught us, it’s that hot and cold can be a very invigorating combo. Try a traditional banana split ($7) paired with an Irish coffee ($8); the latter comes topped with tasty schlagg (triple European cream, thickened and slightly sweetened). 18 E. Bellevue Pl. 312-642-3400.
The Motel Bar
Sure, you enjoyed hanging on the outdoor patio this summer, but now it’s time to bring the party inside at this hotel lobby-themed lounge. We learned the secret to this fireplace’s year-round appeal; they run it in the summer, too, but only flip on the optional heat switch when the weather gets cold. We say bring it on.
Fab fireside fare: Shake off a chill with a classic Motel Martini ($8), made with Plymouth Gin, Martini & Rossi Bianco Vermouth (and olives, of course), along with an order of beer-battered light and crunchy chicken fingers ($9). 600 W. Chicago Ave. 312-822-2900.
D.O.C. Wine Bar
There’s no better way to escape Old Man Winter’s icy grasp than curling up with a glass of wine (or many; it’s going to be a long one). During its first winter in business, D.O.C. provides plenty of opportunities to snuggle up with a shiraz, thanks to lounge-like seating, candlelit tables and fireplaces in both the main bar and cozy back room.
Fab fireside fare: New to the menu is an Angus beef pot roast braised with root vegetables, burgundy wine and veal stock ($8). Pair it with one of four red wine-flight options: European Classic, Spicy, Sexy or Italian. 2602 N. Clark St. 773-883-5101.
Uncommon Ground Coffee House and Cafe
Yes, this Wrigleyville alternative’s been around for ages, but if you haven’t stopped in since the addition was completed earlier this year, it’s worth a trek through the elements. The new space boasts a fireplace with comfy, cuddle-worthy couches, and the faux logs won’t be the only thing not smoking in this 100 percent smoke-free joint.
Fab fireside fare: Gourd-loving guys and gals can get their fix with a pumpkin martini ($9), made from fresh pumpkin puree, house-infused cinnamon rum, vanilla vodka and vanilla Torani syrup, accompanied by a plate of pumpkin ravioli with sage butter sauce, bleu cheese and hazelnuts ($15). 3800 N. Clark St. 773-929-3680.
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metromix@tribune.com
