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Violet Hour
Categories: Nightlife Bars Lounges Restaurants American (New) Lounges, American (New) [Edit]
1520 N Damen Ave(between Wicker Park Ave & Pierce Ave)
Chicago, IL 60622
Neighborhood: Wicker Park
(773) 252-1500
- Nearest Transit:
-
Damen-O'Hare (Blue Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri, Sun 6 pm - 2 am
Sat 6 pm - 3 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Late Night
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Mon, Tue, Wed
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Classy, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Mike S. said: "TRU is serving up some of the most playful, original food we've seen anywhere. Not what we were expecting, but we were very pleasantly surprised! I won't spoil the surprise of how each dish is plated, but I will say that the chef is…" read more »
999 reviews for Violet Hour
Review Highlights
"Juliet & Romeo was definitely my favorite."
(in 54 reviews)
"The decor - I absolutely loved the high chairs."
(in 100 reviews)
"Perfect cocktails and incredible atmosphere."
(in 301 reviews)
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999 reviews in English
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Review from Kendra C.
Salt Lake City, UT
2/2/2012
The Violet Hour is my favorite bar. Anywhere. I had a long layover in Chicago once and I made it a point to ride the L into town JUST to get a drink here.
These people are serious about their cocktails. The ambiance is lovely and inviting and creates a true feeling of intimacy. It's like being in twilight while sitting in high-backed, Alice in Wonderland chairs. Amazing. -
Review from Brandon A.
Chicago, IL
2/9/2012
The drinks were amazing. As to be expected.
The food was good. The french fries were great. The gnocchi was lacking a little something in flavor. The pork belly was splendid, though slightly over cooked.
I was completely and utterly disappointed by the service last night. The occasion was a date and we arrived early (before 7) on a Wednesday night, so the place was fairly empty at this point. Upon arriving we were seated promptly but there was one server, unfortunately our "primary" server (primary meaning 60% of the time with like 3 other people picking up the 40% of our service), that couldn't have turned me off any more.
My date does not have the affection towards pork that I have (and being a vegetarian for many years of her life as well) and she naturally had some questions about the selections on the charcuterie menu. While our first server was extremely generous and brought us out a sample to quell our questions, this primary server had nothing about rudeness about her. In asking her to describe one of the selections on the menu (in the form of some generic "How does it taste"/"Whats it like" sort of questions), she responded immediately with "I don't know, how does bread taste? I cant describe bread and I cant describe that [the item we were curious about]." Had it not been a date I likely would've responded to her brashness with some sort of snide remark about all the breads of the world and their differences....but being a gentleman, I declined. Strike 1.
This same waitress checked on us only once while enjoying out drinks and plates and I swear she didnt even stop moving while throwing out the obligatory "How is everything?" question. I sincerely doubt she even came close to hearing anything that came out of my mouth. Strike 2. (At this point you do realize I'm paying YOU for this experience right?!?)
Plates cleared. Drinks emptied. She finally comes back around (after some time waiting) and asks if we want another drink. I order one, my date does not. After waiting for some time and my date hitting up the bathroom, she comes back to our seats and asks if I can forgo my second drink. She tells me the waitress has likely forgotten about me. At the same time, the bill arrives and I tell her we can go but I want to wait a few more minutes and see if I had really been forgotten. This is not a Bud Light Ive ordered so I know it can take a few minutes to make the drinks but at this point close to 15 minutes had elapsed. Bill paid (with only one drink each on it) to a different server and as we wait it becomes exceedingly clear that she has absolutely forgotten about us and my drink. At Red Lobster I would expect this but when I'm here for one reason (the drinks) and Im paying these prices, I expect something a little more, shall we say, attentive from the wait staff. While the "backup servers" to us were wonderful, this primary waitress was as atrocious as it comes. Strike 3.
It so sad when one individual can completely taint what was (or should have been) an otherwise wonderful experience. If she keeps up servicing customers in this manner she will soon be able to tell me in ABSOLUTE EXTREME DETAIL what EXACTLY bread tastes like because bread and water is all she will be able to afford as an unemployed waitress.
Wont keep me from going back but I will be on the lookout for her and will have no qualms about "helping" her adjust her attitude a little more directly next time. -
Review from Amanda C.
2/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
This place totally wowed me. The ambiance as you walk in is amazing. Nice & relaxed... Definitely what a lounge should be all about. Decor is awesome. Reminds me of Alice in Wonderland or something. Cocktails are set at $12 each... A little pricy but worth having there. I didn't get a chance to try the food I'll have to go back. Thought it was sweeeet that they brought us a bowl of nuts halfway through our visit.
Waiting 30 minutes out in the cold was so worth it! Love the fact that the rules include NO CELL PHONE USE! Your there to enjoy the place not be on the phone. The croud was really cool... No need to watch your back here. Lot's of security, to the point where you can leave your purse alone at the bar.
Bathroom wasn't really what I expected but it was nice. I like how it feels like your in your own personal bathroom... Hard to explain lol.
They don't take Discover so -1 for that. This kind of place should take every card! -
Review from Anna V.
Chicago, IL
2/3/2012
The only times I have been here have been when I've been expensing it. If not, I would be much more broke. I have never waited for a table here, but I'm sure eventually my luck will run out. I know. A-hole alert.
The drinks are great. Of course they are. Expert level everything: Austin 75, In the Pines, and the Dark and Stormy. Sweet, interesting, bright, borderline deceptive alcohol content. Service is pretty hands off. Nowhere in Wicker Park that I've been to really had good service, though, and I have a couple theories on why. We ordered food - crispy fries, wonderful onion-y gnocchi, cod croquettes, and crostini. All were good.
So why 4? I love craft cocktails and I've accepted this generally makes me sound like a douche extraordinaire. I generally am super easy to please with any well made cocktail - which these so, so are, and they're serious about doing them well. But Violet Hour isn't the number one choice for me when I have $30 to burn on liquor, and it's because... it's more pretentious than I am. Reading the twee-tastic chirpy bizarro reviews of it confirms to me that I'm not nuts, but the irritating patrons are more a matter of Wicker Park being an odd place and aren't the bar's fault.
Well worth trying. Dress up a little. -
Review from Jimmy P.
Chicago, IL
2/1/2012
I'll keep this short and sweet. I've had the pleasure of coming here well over a dozen times.
The drinks are epic. I don't like thinking of myself as a trained animal, but if someone says "Violet Hour Old Fashioned" I begin salivating.
Although small, the food portions accompany alcohol well and are always delicious. The decor inside feels classy and cool and any out of towners are an auto visit to Violet Hour. -
Review from Jason P.
Charlotte, NC
2/7/2012
Such a cool spot. The cocktails are top notch, even if they are a bit expesnive, you are paying for the experience.
I wish my hometown had a prohibition bar like this.
Everytime I visit Chicago (which is once or twice a year) I have to go to the Violet Hour! -
Review from Steph C.
2/1/2012
Here's the scene - a beautiful bar behind a cool street mural and a thick velvet curtain, decorated in teal and white with chandeliers and high chairs built in Wonderland proportions. The atmosphere is calm on a Sunday night and the decor makes it a little bit magical. Your charmed heroine, Steph C., takes a seat at the bar with Michael K. and Janice K. A young bartender comes over. He has a patchy growth on his face that he thinks is a beard. Your thirsty heroine studies the menu and settles on a drink called the Holy Mole, with tequila, sweet vermouth, Averna, and chocolate bitters.
"Can I get the Holy Mole?"
Patchy Face Growth tinkers with his tools, and says, "Just so you know, it's a very strong drink."
Your just heroine notes that this is a reasonable warning, if not entirely typical, and says, "Okay. That's cool."
Patchy Face Growth disregards your equanimous heroine's response and puts her in her place. "Women don't usually like it. Just warning you."
Your patient heroine feels a tingle of rage, but with saintly composure, she smiles and says, "Got it."
Patchy Face Growth disregards your noble heroine's second assurance that she will not faint from the fumes, and says, "I mean it's all booze. Most women end up giving it to their boyfriends."
Your logical heroine notes with some generosity, "I see. Because it has chocolate, so I'm sure women order it expecting a milkshake despite the tequila and vermouth and Amaro. We are so very silly. But you need not be concerned, my dear Patchy Face Growth. I have decent reading comprehension, despite my strong emotional reaction to the very mention of chocolate."
The bartender does not register that he has offended your gentle heroine, but he concedes and mixes her drink. Your proud heroine grows nervous as she decides she must swallow whatever potent mixture comes her way - she will not brook Patchy Face Growth's smug expression should he see her wince.
The drink arrives, and it is strong but smooth, with enough flavor and even tone to save her from crying at every sip. She samples Mike and Jan's cocktails. Mike's is The Violet Hour Old Fashioned, with Old Forester, demerara syrup, and Angostura bitters - it comes without a disclaimer for burly Mike, a good if unremarkable Old Fashioned. When Mike asks Patchy Face Growth for an Old Fashioned with mezcal, the surly bartender advises against the concoction. Patchy Face Growth looks uncomfortable with improvisation, as if he has just seen a woman in a pants suit. Mike gets a Woolworth Flip instead, with bourbon, Carpano Antica, cynar, a whole egg, and root beer bitters. It is frothy and thick, with root beer sweetness, but its lack of balance makes it unappealing to your sensitive heroine's fragile palate. Jan's Pimm's Cup Variation #5 is a lovely refreshing drink, fit for a lady, with Pimm's #1, lemon, apricot liqueur, ginger syrup, orange, and blackberries.
Your adventurous heroine almost never stops after one cocktail, but she decides that one drink is enough at Violet Hour. She considers tipping light, but as her party has moved to a table to drink without the judging leer of Patchy Face Growth, she makes no protest at her waitress's expense. As she and her friends leave, Mike slips away quietly and procures an apology on her behalf. Your hasty heroine has already left the building, and she regrets missing that confrontation.
Your pensive heroine sighs. "Violet Hour could have been so much better," she whispers to the winter bird that alights on her shoulder. "It was so charming, and the drinks were pretty good. All tainted by a couple dumb words from one dumb bartender. It's a shame, isn't it, Bird?"
"Chirp chirp," says the winter bird.
"Yes, he apologized, but he had to get called out."
"Chirp chirp chirp," says the winter bird.
"Yes. I will write a review. That is my best revenge."
Armed with her vindictive memory and her writer's arm, your evil heroine departs from Violet Hour into the ruthless cold of night. -
Review from Quetzalli C.
Chicago, IL
1/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
This place is definitely somewhere you should go for a great conversation to be paired with good drinks. There sustenance menu is also filled with great choices and I definitely recommend the artisenal cheeses. The staff is always willing to give you recommendations as well if you can't decide on one of their many drinks.
It also has the potential to make or break your date. The reason why is because Of the few, but important, codes that the Violet Hour lives by... No cellphones, no cheap trashy beer, no college style mixed drinks. If you or you're date use your phone as a crutch to fill on silences or avoid contact, this will become quickly apparent. If your date only drinks PBR or doesn't know how to appreciate a finely crafted Old Fashioned, this will also become quickly apparent.
What I'm trying to get at is that this prohibition era, speakeasy styled place quickly sets an amazing atmosphere for real human conversation. If you're a person of substance, you'll thrive in this environment, if you're a shallow sycophant -then probably not. -
Review from Rhoda G.
1/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
I have heard about the Violet Hour and walked by here a couple of times during the day before, but didn't know the location. Very easy to miss without the line..
I took my friend here after dinner on a Saturday night around 8. Only had a 10 minute wait. It was a small wait compared to the 30 to hour wait that this place can have on a busy night. We decided to sit at the bar, so we can watch the bartenders do their magic which was fun. I wish that they were more personable though. Both of us got 2 drinks each. I got the Juliet and Romeo and Linden Hills. The drinks were made well and delicious. My friend stuck to the hot drinks and she enjoyed them as well.
Yes, the place is swanky and the drinks are expensive ($12 each), but it's nice to splurge and dress up once in awhile. I'll be back.Listed in: Fancy Smancy Cocktails
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Review from Marissa P.
Kansas City, MO
1/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
5 Stars for amazingly inventive cocktails and sleek ambiance
0 Stars for horribly rude service.
We lucked out and were seated immediately, however, we seemed to be seated at a table that was crammed in where it didn't fit. The chairs were so awkwardly positioned that my friend kept trying to adjust them so we could talk (shouldn't be difficult at a two person table). However, every time he would adjust his chair even a 1/4 inch a waitress would rudely come over and tell him he had to move it back. Finally we asked for a new table after explaining how uncomfortable we were. The waitress acted as if we has personally offended here and reluctantly gave us a different table. Did someone leave their customer service skills at home that day? I have no problem spending lots money on hand crafted cocktails and leaving generous tips but rudeness is not welcome. So props to the bartenders for creating amazing drinks but I don't think I'll be back due to the lack of service. -
Review from Ryan C.
Chicago, IL
2/1/2012
I do craft cocktails at another bar in Milwaukee I have to say being a "boozehound" I can really appreciate the quality of the drinks that are made at the Violet Hour. The staff is very knowledgeable and their customer service skills are amazing.
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Review from Katrina S.
Chicago, IL
1/21/2012
Clandestine.. That's the word that comes to mind when I think about the ambience at Violet Hour. The seating is arranged in such a way that feels very private so you can feel at ease discussing your next top secret mission. It's easy to keep your focus on the people you came with. The extraordinarily high backs on the Queen Anne wing back chairs feel sort of Alice in Wonderland. The lighting is very dim. I like it.
This can not be overstated. THE BEST DARK & STORMY I HAVE EVER HAD ANYWHERE!! It is unreal how good this is. I have had them at many other high end establishments and no comparison. They even have special ice which resembles a stick of butter so as not to dilute this magical cocktail.
Summary: This is a great place to go if you like a sophisticated, clandestine vibe and very finely crafted cocktails expertly prepared with the best ingredients. -
Review from s. m. j.
Conway, AR
1/30/2012
I was in Chicago for a girlfriends' weekend, and our cocktails at the Violet Hour were absolutely what we needed! One of my friends who is new to the city said she heard it was a great cocktail lounge, and once we got there, we knew it was perfect for what we wanted! It's luxurious, the drinks are delicious, the seating is quiet and private, the music is soothing and moody, the nibbles are tasty, and we were completely thrilled!
Yes, some of the things the Yelpers write are true, though I don't think they were necessarily negatives. First, we didn't wait AT ALL. We arrived around 6 p.m. on a Thursday, and we got right in. Two of us were together, waiting on our third friend, and we stood outside for a bit because we didn't know if they would seat us if we weren't all there. But we were cold, and people kept going in, so we thought we better try or we might be waiting in a line; we went in and said there were two of us, and we would have a third, and they seated us immediately. We were given two of the very high-backed chairs (I loved those!) and an ottoman. We knew that our friend would probably not feel comfortable sitting on that "footstool," so we asked if we could move to an empty booth, and the waitress said "of course!" immediately and helped us move. The booth was wonderful, and we felt as if we were in one of our living rooms all evening -- a living room with a hostess, a waitress and amazing cocktails!
Second, the lounge is not marked outside. We were a little flustered when we arrived because we weren't sure where it was, but we were waiting for our friend and watched people go in, so, with the help of Google maps, we confirmed it was the right place.
Third, other people on Yelp have complained that the Violet Hour doesn't allow for standing customers, and, honestly, I thought it was awesome! By the time we left, the place was full, but it never felt crowded or irritating. I appreciate that the hosts/hostesses keep the numbers down to preserve the experience for those who are seated. If you want to go, try to go early on an off night, as we did, and you'll get to enjoy it. The lounge doesn't allow cell phone use, and we took this so seriously, we texted from inside our purses! But, again, I really appreciated that some Loudy Louderson wasn't screaming into his/her phone at the next table over.
Finally, we all really liked the music! When we arrived, an older Rufus Wainwright album was playing, and my friend was thrilled with it, as was I. I found the music to be conducive to our conversation and enjoyment, not replacing it.
What did we have? I stuck with the Juliet and Romeo all evening. It tastes like summer, and I just loved it, and didn't want to switch. It arrived in a champagne glass with a tiny carafe on the side with the "rest" of the drink, which I appreciated (these were not cheap!). My friend sampled more of the menu. They tried the raspberry cobbler, the Austin and Pimm's traditional cocktail. The waitress worked with my friend and suggested things based on what she said she liked. We all liked all of our drinks, every single time.
I also ordered food, the crispy pork belly and the goat cheese, and it was PLENTY. I shared and still couldn't eat it all. The pork belly was like "pork belly nuggets," crispy on the outside and melty-tender on the inside. The "dip" was creme fraiche, and was amazing. The cheese came with PLENTY of bread and a fruit spread as well, and the prices for the food were reasonable.
The only quibble I have/agree with is that they will NOT make you a standard cocktail. They will ONLY make the cocktails on the list, or, I guess, alternatives from their repertoire. My friend, after trying a couple of the menu items wanted a pomegranate martini, and the waitress said, "we don't have that." I think if you have a full bar, you can probably make a martini! That written, the cocktails we had were absolutely delicious!
Honestly, our experience was nearly perfect, from the greeting at the door, the service (from many people, the hostess, who checked on us multiple time, to the waitress, to the runners who brought drinks and food). The ambience and decor, the privacy of the setting, the luxuriousness of the decor, the pleasantness of the music, the secluded feeling of the whole setting.
I would absolutely go back to the Violet Hour next time I'm in Chicago. I've had lovely times at the SoHo Grand and the Brandy Library in New York City, and this definitely rivals those experiences. -
Review from Jonathan P.
IL
2/5/2012
Let me begin by saying I'm not much of a bar guy, but I always
welcome an adventure. So when a girlfriend asked if I'd like to meet some of her and her friends out, I decided to go. And it was an adventure.
We agreed on a meeting time and I arrived ten minutes late. Thankfully there was no line. Walking in, I took note of the interior. About what I expected. Nothing over the top gorgeous but nicely decorated. The hostess asked if she could help me. I explained I was meeting a group and asked if I could look around. "Sorry Sir, there's no standing.". I looked around and sure enough, everyone was seated. Hmm. No problem, I pulled out my cell phone. "Sorry, Sir, cell phones aren't permitted. " So I went outside to call my friend and waited for the group. We were given a group of small tables and settled in.
I looked over the menu. All original drinks that, according to some of the girls in the group, had orgasmic powers not to be believed. They told me I had to try this one or that one, each summing up their description with, "It's the best, you'll love it!". I just wanted a Vodka Cranberry. So that's what I ordered when the waitress asked what I'd like.
"Sorry, Sir, you have to order off the menu". Silly me, I thought the menu was a highlight of the house specialties, but no, that was it. "But you have the ingredients, right?" I asked, just wanting to be clear to know if they couldn't make it or wouldn't make it. Turns out they could have if they wanted to, but they didn't want to. So I ordered some vodka drink of the menu and laughed to myself. I thought someone was playing a practical joke on me, but this was for real!
We started talking about whatever and, being on the end, I was having a hard time hearing what was being discussed at the other end of our seating situation. I moved my throne a bit to get closer, only to be told I'm not allowed to rearrange any furniture. Should've seen that coming. And I couldn't stand to move closer. So in my spare time sitting on my throne of isolation, I started keeping a note of all the things I wasn't allowed to do. So far, no standing, no cell phone, no ordering off the menu, no moving of the furniture. Awesome. These drinks better give me the orgasm of a lifetime to put me through this.
My drink came and it was tasty. No orgasm, which was both a relief and a disappointment at the same time. Although some of my table mates seemed to have some hidden vibrator going to town judging by their reactions. Whatever.
At some point, one of my friends asked me what I thought. My response summed up every feeling I had about the place. "I think if the Nazis won the war, bars would look something like this."
I won't be going back. One star for the comedy; a fun little adventure I prefer not to repeat. -
Review from Maria S.
Chicago, IL
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Stay away! Then I will definitely get a seat. I've been here twice, yesterday and last Thursday. Being a first timer, I felt I had to redo it all over again now that I know the etiquette.
No cell phone use inside lounge. Oops!
Proper attire requested. (I got all dressed up yesterday and felt part of the flow!)
There is something totally romantic about this place. It's the lighting, the music, even how the bartenders carry themselves. It's hidden and definitely meant to captivate a classical sense of just awe and splendor. I love that you can get loss with your thoughts, staring at the magical chandelier, the high ceilings, looking at the bar that you may find somewhere in Paris but it's in Chicago. Swanky & posh to describe this place. I am absolutely smitten! Favorite libations: Thumb in a Pie and Thick as Thieves
If you don't like long lines, don't go after dinner. You will be standing for awhile. It certainly, gets crowded....which leaves me to get a seat. -
Review from Brandon C.
Birmingham, AL
1/10/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is probably one of the best bars anywhere. I would have given it five stars, but the service was a bit slow, and the level of pretense, which I normally relish when I come here, almost outdid the cocktails the last time.
The Violet Hour is chock full of people who have rich parents who are paying for grad school, others who inherited a fortune, as well as a few purists who love the delicious cocktails.... all adding to the fun.
Try to go when you can avoid the long waits (not at 9 or 10 p.m. on Friday). Once inside, the decor will leave you expecting Harry Potter to come flying out of the bathroom on a broomstick. I have not seen him yet, but don't want to rule it out.
After you settle in, provided that you can get a decent seat in the main room or at the bar (the back room is more of a chore because it is not as comfy or private), you will be in for an enjoyable night of creative drinks. Violet Hour is not an Irish Pub or the local Hooters. If you prefer those kind of places, you may want to try somewhere else. -
Review from Rachel H.
Updated - 1/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
Just a small addition:
A couple of months ago, sitting at a lovely table in the back, BF became FH. That's right, BF proposed here! So wonderful. And the management brought us complimentary champagne.
If I didn't love VH enough, now its the site of our engagement. Yay!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/19/2010
I absolutely love the Violet Hour. I have been here several times, for special occasions and… Read more »
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Review from Saraju P.
Melrose Park, IL
12/30/2011
Long line. Pretentious. High Curtains. More high curtains. Dark. Alice in wonderland chairs. $12 cocktails.
The thing is...the drinks were amazing (Dark and stormy, Juliet and Romeo, and Ginger Toddy). I can't deny it. We also ended up getting the onion dip and it was delicious.
The problem for me is the very thing that makes this place special. There is such an air of pretension and exclusivity. It is a place that takes itself so seriously, when really it is kind of amusing and silly. Yes, the drinks are great...but I've had great drinks elsewhere as well...finding drinks made with special ingredients and spices and whatnot is not so unique anymore, though I will admit there is a great variety here.
I'm glad I went. (I had been meaning to go forever. But everytime the lines were so long that we would just say fuck it, let's walk to Map Room or whatever.) I will probably go again for good drinks...but knowing what is inside now, I know that the high curtains and getting your name down on the list and standing around in a tight space with a bunch of other suckers isn't going to engender any sense of anticipation. It will only serve to annoy me. -
Review from Christina G.
Chicago, IL
1/16/2012
I've been here a few times and every time, it's been great.
The most recent visit was last week. There were four of us catching up (one of us was from out of town). We got there about 7 on a Thursday night and it was really busy. We had to wait for a four person table to open up. A couple groups of two went in while we waited, but the hostess was trying to figure something out for us. She created a kind of makeshift table for four at two of the high backed chairs, pulling up two stools for us to sit. About ten minutes later, a booth opened up, and we were promptly moved to be more comfortable. Much appreciated.
The decor/ambiance is great. Very hip. There are dark, thick, textured curtains, tall-backed chairs, and lighting is dim. We saw a lot of dates happening that night.
The best part of all is definitely the drinks. The menu is arranged by liqueur choice - gin, vodka, brandy, rum, tequila, etc. You really can't go wrong with any of the choices. My personal favorites from the night were:
1. Juliet & Romeo. A refreshing mix of Beefeater gin, mint, cucumber, and rose water. This may just be my favorite cocktail of all time.
2. Blue Ridge Manhattan. If you like whiskey, you'll love this drink.
3. Poor Liza. This one tastes like an alcoholic pear. Much better than a pear martini.
I don't think they take reservations, so be prepared to wait if you go. But, it's worth the wait. -
Review from Amy Z.
Seattle, WA
1/16/2012
We got lucky and only had a 10 min wait, but as other reviewers have noted, you should to hang out in line for a while. This is such a neat spot to grab some uniquely concocted cocktails. I really don't think you can go wrong with any drink on their menu.
I had the honor of sitting hear the cozy fireplace in the back while sipping on a warm ginger toddy. Heaven. -
Review from Mike K.
12/12/2011
As of this writing, there are 962 reviews of the Violet Hour. Nine hundred plus. That volume of information will give you a good idea of what you'll find here. If you're going to peruse all the available text to make a decision on whether you want to visit or not, I would suggest you experience the place yourself first-hand as it will save you from the massive amount of reading and you'll at least get a tasty drink out of the process.
As I won't want to reiterate what's already been said in the previous 900+ reviews, let me give you my personal rules about the VH:
1 - Never on a weekend. Drinks after work hours during the week are usually good. If forced to go on a weekend, I would suggest earlier than later. Or, if pressed, later than later.
2 - 3 people, max.
3 - Sit at the bar. The seats are more comfortable (for me) than the high back chairs, you get to talk to the bartenders and see drinks being made. The "bar tending" show could be just that - a show - but I appreciate it the same.
4 - Whiskey. I haven't had a bad (see: unimpressed) drink yet. Keep up the great work, VH!
5 - Order the food. Their food selection is surprisingly good. I don't know why but when I first learned they served food, I was shocked.
6 - Big Star tacos after you leave. Yeah, I know you just had drinks and food but there are some tasty tacos right across the street available through the pick-up window.
Enjoy. -
Review from Stella W.
Chicago, IL
1/31/2012
Love this place! Great cocktail, great service, great atmosphere, great snack. The only downside is the line outside, esp on a winter day :/
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Review from Christy L.
Chicago, IL
1/22/2012
It says a lot that my first visit to the Violet Hour was with a pathological liar from http://match.com, and I still liked it so much that I've gone back repeatedly with my friends. True, I go at off hours, but you'd have to be crazy to wait more than 10 minutes in a Chicago winter to get in a bar. This bar has the best "romantic" atmosphere equally matched by phenomenal cocktails. Go (before 7pm - yes, crazy early) to kick your night off with the best per-dinner drinks.
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Review from Kristin G.
Royal Oak, MI
12/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
There is something other worldly about Violet Hour. I opened the hidden door and felt like Alice, who had just stumbled upon a magical place. A tall curtain & a well dressed man greeted us. We walked through the curtains to see a beautiful sight. A room with dramatic tall backed chairs, lowly lit with tall curtains separating each room, chandeliers, tea candles at every table. There is a whimsy about the Violet Hour. There is something familiar, yet mysterious about it all. It wasn't at all pretentious. It felt easy & welcoming & I didn't want to leave!
Juliet & Romeo: I substituted Hendricks Gin for Beefeater, Rose Water & Mint & Cucumber. A must must try. It is so absolutely well rounded in flavor that I'm certain I'll be dreaming of it for years to come.
Pims Cup Variation #5 : Blackberry, Ginger, Apricot Liqueur, Lemon & Pims #1. This one had a nice range of fruity & sweet but was a bit too girly froofy for me to order again.
Seasonal Sezerac : Rye, apricot liqueur, absinthe & Peychaud's bitters. An exceptional cocktail that I highly recommend trying. I don't even know how to categorize the taste profile. It's smooth & not too sweet, not too anything. Just a whole lot of RIGHT.
The Violet hour uses large square column like ice cubes in their cocktails. This I think lends to the insistence on making most well crafted cocktails. You aren't going to get a cup of ice with a touch of alcohol here. The ice, being more block-like kept the drink cool while not watering down the concoction. I like this attention to detail.
This is a one of a kind place. You won't drink these drinks or feel this way anywhere else. If only Chicago were my town, Violet Hour, you you would be my Muse. You put me under some sort of spell and I am glad you did...till next time!Listed in: Chitown Highlights
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Review from Sibi J.
Wicker Park, Chicago, IL
12/29/2011
A hidden gem in the heart of Wicker park.
First if you find it, props to you.. Then if you get in, you will be enticed in a suddenly magical bar which has awesomely high ceilings and every chair that is soo tall that it makes you look like royalty.
The whiskys that were on the menu are phenomenal. It's a super classy, upscale bar that is sure to impress on a first date :) -
Review from Bri A.
Chicago, IL
12/15/2011
This is one of the most interesting and coolest bars I have ever been to. The rules intimidated me at first but they really are'n't so bad. This is a place to savor hand crafted cocktails and have good conversation, not get stupid drunk like at a frat party. My boyfriend and I came in on a Saturday night around 8pm and there was only one party ahead of us so the wait was only a few minutes. We were seated at the bar where Owen took care of us the rest of the night. He was friendly and very knowledgeable about the cocktails and never made us feel dumb for asking questions.
I love the overall ambiance of this place. I felt as though I were in another world. The bar is sectioned off with velvet ropes giving each section an intimate feel. The bar area reminds me of an old pharmacy with all of the cool old bottles and cabinets. They played a mix of 70s rock and indie music and the volume wasn't too loud at all. They did start playing r&b/rap later on which kind of killed the mood though.
I don't remember the drinks we had and they aren't on the website menu, but everything we had was excellent. I like how everything is the same price, too. This is a great place for a date or to go with a group of friends who can appreciate a good cocktail! Don't bring your drunken fool friends here! -
Review from Min T.
Los Angeles, CA
12/22/2011
3.5
I've been to some bars in L.A. where bartenders have told me they were inspired by the cocktails at Chicago's The Violet Hour. I've read some articles about this bar and it was my #1 cocktail bar I had to try. After dinner at Moto, we headed over and experienced a brief wait.
It wasn't too terrible but some jerks were also waiting and causing a ruckus. It seems the three misters were drunk and/or high. And if we hadn't been let in at the right moment, I would have spoken to the bouncer as one of the house rules at the Violet Hour is not bringing anyone you wouldn't want at your mother's house for Sunday supper. These three were definitely not welcome guests. I lost track of them and perhaps they were let in after all. I saw someone with a baseball cap on and it was clearly against their house rules.
Still, the Violet Hour speaks of a certain genteelness and charm. The highbacked chairs reminded me of the chairs on the Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland. They afforded privacy and perhaps a few secrets were exchanged. Although they didn't entirely block your view. The booth next to our table was clearly on display and vice versa.
The cocktail menu is short but the book of liquors was quite heavy. I opted for one of their signature cocktails since we weren't at the bar. I tend to like to sit at the bar and chat with the bartender to get a custom cocktail. The one I ordered from their list was fantastic.
Alas, we only had time for one before we disappeared into the night. But considering the pub crawl we had the night before, it was probably for the best. -
Review from MaiaCybelle C.
San Francisco, CA
1/23/2012 2 photos
I could do without the long wait, but thoroughly enjoyed my experience once inside the door, except for the music choice. The Violet Hour has great service, atmosphere and hushed conversation tones. The night I visited they played quite a lot of Fugazi which isn't really conducive to intimate conversation. Ease up on the hardcore/loud music please!
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Review from Kevin T.
Updated - 12/17/2011
Still love this place.
I suggest you go early if you want to grab a seat. As with other reviews I don't think this place is pretentious at all. There's a not standing rule, this isn't a place to go loiter and hang out but a place for cocktails and everyone must be seated which is why they limit entrance. If you're done drinking, go somewhere else and allow another to share the experience. The cocktails remain the best in the city. Better and more reasonably priced than Aviary. If you go try to sit at the bar for a better experience. My favorite bar in the city.Listed in: Getting tremulous...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/15/2009
Love this place! Great mixology cocktails. Similar in concept to the speakeasy bars in NYC like… Read more »
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Review from Arielle B.
Chicago, IL
1/26/2012
One of my favorite places in the city. Hands down. Go before there's a line. Drink a Juliet & Romeo (featured in Esquire Magazine). And feel like Alice in Wonderland sitting in a throne chair.
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Review from Teresa C.
Chicago, IL
1/26/2012
Total disappointment! Out with friends for a pub crawl starter and waited 30min for a waitress to acknowledge us. Finally we ordered drinks and waited another 30min for our drinks. To top it off gratuity was added because we had 6 in our group. While the atmosphere and drinks were tasty I still can't bring myself to give a good review. Had the waitress been more attentive we probably would have stayed and had more drinks.
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Review from F. P.
San Francisco, CA
12/12/2011
Real cool bar in Bucktown. A local friend recommended, otherwise we would never have found it. It's "hidden" as the entrance is easy to miss (sort of hidden along a wall with no signs - very "speakeasy" feel).
But inside, it was swanky and happening. We were fortunate to get seated right away as we just beat the rush of the crowd that followed. The drinks are well-thought out with libations ordered in terms of the spirit. The whiskey drinks were fine but after trying a friend's Juliet and Romeo, I think that was my favorite (even though I don't like gin usually), although it is a little too sour if the bartender is generous with the lime juice.
Drinks are all $12 .. pricey but definitely a worthwhile experience. Don't think there are any happy hour specials. Service is a bit slow and scattered so whenever we got our server's attention, we would bombard her with requests for more drinks and small bites. -
Review from Jaime K.
Lincolnshire, IL
12/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
we went as a party of 3 on a tuesday night. waited 40 minutes to get seated and waited another 15 to get a server to say hello and get menus. Another 15 to get the server to take our drink orders. dont think it was that busy. i was a bit annoyed.
the drinks were very pretty good. very unique with interesting ingrediants. the bartenders really know what they were doing. but i dont know if i would go do it again .. -
Review from Jack P.
12/16/2011
In a burg with 4000 or so bars, how does one distinguish oneself from all the others? I had the opportunity to see for myself the other night, and the luck to visit the Hour with a friend who works there. So kind of an insider's initiation, if you will. All I can say was it was a thorougly enjoyable experience. While not much of a cocktail guy, and pretty boring and rut-like in my cocktail consumption habits (traditional martini, scotch and soda, margarita,) I am a huge fan of flavors and flavor pairings, and anything that dances on the tongue. So I tried both the Juliet and Romeo (or was it a Joliet and Romeoville?) and the Dark and Stormy. The first was Beefeater, Mint, Cucumber and Rosewater. The second, Brugal Anejo Rum, Lime Cruzon, Blackstrap and Ginger Syrup. OK, so I had no idea about some of those ingredients, but my chum Tyler educated me. They were both tasty new and experiences for me.
The ambiance, the vibe or esthetic I liked very much. It's classy, enthusiastic, sudued and intimate. And the postcard they have to describe the customers they want could be interpreted by some as a New Yorkish attitude: no baseballs caps, no Lite beers, and an actual dress and behavior code. Personally, I find it refreshing. As David Manilow from Check Please points out about restaurants, a place needs to know what it is. And sometimes that lack of identity leads to failure. Not true here. And those waiting in line on the way out attests to the success. The staff was pleasant and appeared to be enjoying the joint themselves. One price for all cocktails ($12.00) makes things simple. While I could'nt make this my neighborhood "hang," it's surely a great special occasion place. Great for dates, celebrations. But be mindful that they do not encourage large groups. If you don't like that, you can check out the other 3999 alternatives.Listed in: Queue Up!, Classic Cocktails
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Review from Mindy S.
1/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
A perfect destination for a quiet, intimate, special evening, the Violet Hour is always a win with everybody. Try to get seats at the bar to truly enjoy your experience. Pretentious? No. Just a quality place that puts value on the enjoyment of fine drinks, company that you can converse with, and an intimate atmosphere.
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Review from Annie M.
San Francisco, CA
10/30/2011
The wait was long, but the drinks were rockin'. The music is loud, the lights low, and the high-backed chairs super comfy. In short, come here with a small group or a date, but not with a large group because it's hard to hear and the seating's not great for big groups. I had an Old-fashioned and the Boy had a Juliet & Romeo and In the Pines; we loved all three, but we're scotch and gin fans. I've had many an old-fashioned and this was definitely one of the best -- right down to the large cube of ice, lemon peel, and expertly balanced ingredients. I highly recommend you come here and try as many cocktails as you can--you won't be disappointed.
Oh, and the house rules are sassy (samples: No Grey Goose. No Cosmopolitans.) and you can bring a copy home, printed on a postcard. -
Review from Peter S.
Chicago, IL
1/10/2012
Wonderful place .
Bringing Cocktail culture back in a presence , that is understated and doesn't need pretension . -
Review from S. K.
Chicago, IL
10/18/2011
There is a door hidden within the giant violet expanse that is the exterior covered by an eye-test of geometric shapes directly across from Big Star. You'll never find the door if you're already drunk.
Beautiful, sensuous setting with velvet drapes, candlelight and tall-back seats. The ambiance is non-distracting and oh-so-chill in shades of greys and whites giving center stage to your amazingly delicious cocktails (1st) and conversation partner(s) (2nd).
We arrived at 6PM just as the doors opened and we were the first ones in. 3 hours later, not realizing how quickly time went by, the lounge had filled up and we didn't even realize that others had been seated and well into their cocktails and conversations. Private in a public setting which is so hard to do. Well done VH!!!
Yelp has this listed as "dressy." I didn't find it to be that way, nor do they require it, though it's not a tattered jeans and flipflop type of establishment. Be sure to check out the house rules on their website for a very specific list of don't's.
Perfect for a night out with girlfriends or as a date-night starter (or finisher). Whatever sultry mood you establish from within its velvet walls, make sure it's solid before you step out because walking out onto N Damen slaps you with reality on the opposite end of the spectrum. -
Review from Brianna M.
Morton Grove, IL
1/5/2012
I was taken here on a first date and was told to expect something "swanky." He wasn't kidding; this has to be the swankiest lounges I've ever been to! First off, the high backings of the chairs give the place an Alice In Wonderland feel--super cool. Second perk- our waitress asked us kindly if we would be willing to switch tables nearby and offered us free shots for doing so.... can you say yes please? I had no idea what most of the ingredients were on the menu but our waitress also had some great recommendations. Pretty drinks, candlelight, good company = impressed me! Definitely coming back to get my "swanky" on again.
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Review from Shirley L.
San Francisco, CA
1/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
Really romantic ambience. Dim lights, fresh interesting cocktails, and nearby tables with attractive hipsters make for a great date night or post-dinner cocktails with a few girlfriends. Limited seating reminds me of speakeasies in California, but the furnishing is more modern and upscale. One gripe is the line -- having to wait outside in the cold sucks-- but definitely worth trying at least once.
