On September 19, 2023, Hawksmoor Chicago will introduce a new cocktail venue, the Beef & Liberty Bar, designed to evoke the vibrant cocktail culture of late-1990s London. This new addition aims to elevate the Chicago bar scene by offering a menu filled with innovative drinks inspired by the era’s iconic cocktails.
A Unique London-Inspired Cocktail Experience
Situated within the historic LaSalle Street Cable Car Powerhouse, Hawksmoor Chicago has gained popularity for its upscale steaks and seafood. The Beef & Liberty Bar will provide guests with a unique opportunity to enjoy cocktails that reflect the lively atmosphere of London’s Soho, characterized by its late-night basement parties and eclectic vibe.
The bar’s interior has been thoughtfully refreshed to channel the energy of London’s cocktail scene from the late 1990s to early 2000s. This period is often remembered for its mix of glamour and grit, where rockstars and socialites mingled in dimly lit venues, sipping on groundbreaking drinks.
Signature Cocktails and Classic British Fare
The cocktail menu at Beef & Liberty Bar features a selection of drinks that pay homage to this vibrant era. Among the highlights are the renowned Sub-Zero Martinis, which are served at a chilling -2°C, and the new Duke’s Martinis. The bar also celebrates the “Naughty Aughties” with a variety of cocktails that defined the golden age of London bars.
Bar Director Liam Davy expressed enthusiasm for the new offerings, stating, “This menu takes its cue from the cocktail renaissance that swept through London in the late ’90s and early ’00s. It was glamorous, but with real London swagger.” He emphasized that the cocktail list is a tribute to the atmosphere of Soho and the excitement of discovering new flavors.
Guests can also enjoy a range of British-inspired bar snacks, including classic options such as Scotch Eggs paired with smoked apple ketchup, Welsh Rarebit, and the Yorkshire Sloppy Joes. Each dish is designed to complement the cocktail experience, enhancing the overall theme of a nostalgic London night out.
Among the featured cocktails are:
- ‘Ello Treacle – a rum-infused twist on the Old Fashioned by Dick Bradsell.
- Breakfast Martini – crafted with orange marmalade by Salvatore Calabrese.
- Silk Stockings – a dessert-like cocktail made with Cocoa Puff cream.
- Ultimate Martini – a refined classic.
- Rotating martini variations, including the Pink Gibson.
With its combination of a nostalgic menu, a historic setting, and a focus on quality, Beef & Liberty Bar is poised to become a prominent late-night destination in Chicago. The venue’s vibrant atmosphere and carefully curated offerings promise to attract both locals and visitors eager for a taste of London’s cocktail heritage.
