Hip & Historic Chicago Hotel Unveils Throwback Bar Concept Paying Homage to the Hotel’s and City’s Illustrious Prohibition Era
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – April 10, 2024 – Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel
[1] is pleased to announce the debut of its new speakeasy-inspired bar
and lounge, Potter’s Bar [2], on April 16, 2024. The latest venue to
debut within the Chicago landmark, Potter’s Bar will pay tribute to
the notorious Prohibition era and its tremendous impact on Chicago, as
well as the hotel’s own historic connections to the famed period. As
America’s longest-operating hotel since 1871, Palmer House is singular
within the city and reflective of its history at large, making it the
ideal location for this new entry into Chicago’s vibrant cocktail scene.
Potter’s Bar will take the form of a sophisticated lounge, drawing
inferences to the city’s real speakeasy scene throughout the 1920s and
30s. Palmer House also took inspiration from its own ties to the
infamous movement, paying homage to the hotel’s system of underground
tunnels (now closed) that were once utilized for secret liquor
transportation. A period of history marked by flamboyant characters and
flagrant lawbreaking, Potter’s Bar captures this spirit to provide a
playful, polished, and experiential imbibing locale.
Outfitted in maroon and gold hues and juxtaposing modern design
elements with vintage decor, Potter’s Bar is bedecked with rotating
Prohibition photographs are set under mood lighting which will provide a
glimpse into the real stories behind the bygone era. The throwback
ambiance will also provide an idyllic stage for a cocktail program that
spotlights the illicit spirits that formed the basis of today’s
classic cocktails, namely bathtub gin, rum, and whiskey. Potter’s Bar
will invite guests to imbibe on signature 3-5 ingredient cocktails that
embody the simplicity and glamour of the time, with highlights including
perfected takes on the Aviation, Chicago Fizz, Whiskey Smash, and much
more.
Further to its beverage offerings, Potter’s Bar will serve light,
shareable bites for snacking. Highlights will include a special Potter
Palmer Charcuterie Board_ _decorated with candied Nueske bacon,
saucisson and pimento cheese; Potter’s Sliders featuring a bacon jam,
aged white cheddar and ‘secret’ sauce; and Spicy Tots with queso
blanco, beef birria and lime crema.
In true speakeasy fashion, Potter’s Bar will feature secret offerings
accessible to those in the know. For example, guests who opt into the
Palmer House concierge text message service will be granted an exclusive
password that unlocks a “secret menu” of specialty offerings. While
this menu is hidden, a teaser of what patrons will discover includes
cocktails that pay tribute to the hotel’s elite clientele of the past,
such as the Frank Sinatra mixed with Jack Daniels, lemon, and mint. There
will also be an indulgent Al & Mae dessert and cocktail pairing of
Chocolate Pot de Crème with apricot, walnut, and vanilla whiskey ice,
served with the bourbon and coffee liqueur-based Revolver touched with a
flamed orange peel. Guests will also discover other VIP experiences
through the text message service.
“The opening of Potter’s Bar will mark a new chapter for Palmer
House and its more than 150-year legacy,” says Henry Dornelas, Hotel
Manager. “Our latest venue will offer a unique gathering spot for
Chicagoans and visitors alike, immersing them in a rich period of
history that extends far beyond our own walls. We strived to create a
sense of authenticity and are certain that our patrons will enjoy the
spirited moments embedded in our concept and across sophisticated
tipples that are sure to stand out within Chicago’s dining scene.”
More information on Potter’s Bar is available at potterschicago.com
[3].
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About Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel
Located in the heart of Downtown Chicago, Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel
is within walking distance of Chicago’s famed cultural, business and
shopping destinations such as the shops along State Street, the Art
Institute of Chicago, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Joffrey Ballet.
Acknowledged for its deep-rooted history, including as the birthplace of
the iconic Brownie, Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel first opened on
September 26, 1871, the hotel began as an extravagant wedding gift and
was immediately regarded as one of the most luxurious hotels in Chicago.
Just 13 days after its grand opening, the Palmer House was completely
destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire. However, not to be deterred,
founder Potter Palmer rebuilt the grand hotel and re-imagined
Palmer House welcomed its first guests on November 8, 1873, marking the
opening of what would become the nation’s longest continually operating
hotel. With 1,641 rooms, the hotel offers several dining options,
including the seasonally inspired cuisine at award-winning Lockwood
Restaurant and Potters Chicago Burger Bar. The property also features an
8,000 square-foot oasis known as The Spa at Palmer House and swimming
pool.
