Recently a friend of mine and I visited the very new Hubbard Inn and discovered a new favorite Chicago watering hole. From the outside, the Hubbard Inn is relatively unassuming, but as you enter you are greeted with what the trendy hot spot coins as a “continental tavern” feel. It’s the type of bar Sherlock Holmes and Will Farrell’s Ron Burgundy would love – it’s filled with an interior that reminds one of rich mahogany and contains many, potentially leather-bound books. Literally, the bar is decorated as a bi-level inn: The first level is home to a large bar as well as multiple high tables, it also has various chairs and couches grouped together in corners - perfect for conversation; the second level is similar but also has a cozy collection of chairs next to a fire place and bookshelf where we spent most of our evening. This throw back bar certainly has its quirks: Look out for paintings of regal monkeys.
My friend and I liked the Hubbard Inn so much that we convinced my fiancé to join us. All three of us were impressed with the quality of our drinks. My friend had one of the best Absolut and diets she’s ever had (truly it was perfectly mixed), I had a wonderful Napa Cabernet followed by a refreshing Sonoma Fume Blanc, and my fiancé had a couple of blondes (Belgium ales – that is!). For a busy bar, we were decently catered to on both levels – we moved from the first to the second to do a bit of exploring. All three of us decided to keep it light and ordered salad. The pear salad was delicate and flavorful and, although skeptical at first, my friend very much enjoyed the red and yellow beet salad – I had a bite too, it was tangy and tasty! The bar serves everything from a charcuterie, pate and cheese plate to a variety of sandwiches including a lobster salad club and a lamb burger. For those that just want a little something, they offer small plates like oysters, seared scallops and short ribs.
For more information on the Hubbard Inn, visit their website at www.hubbardinn.com.
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