Photo by Barry BrecheisenMeat-centric, dining-to-nightlife concept SteakBar is the first collaboration of Four Corners Tavern Group and Hogsalt Hospitality in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood.
rd+d: What is the square footage and/or number of seats?
RI: SteakBar encompasses a 9,000-square-foot, multilevel space, accommodating up to 270 people. The window-lined entrance includes an al fresco dining space, which holds 30 people.
rd+d: What was the overall ambiance you were going for?
RI: Designed by Karen Herold of Studio K, SteakBar is industrial yet warm, gritty yet stunning, washed in deep hues and a charcoal color palette. An eye-catching metal spiral staircase dramatically sweeps across the one-of-a-kind space, featuring exposed ceiling beams, a mix of wood and metal surfaces, musical knickknacks woven throughout and an elevated DJ booth, visible from all areas, framed by a retro, marquee-style light sign that changes throughout service.
rd+d: Can you describe the space?
RI: The concept is divided into three distinct spaces and bar areas, including a window-lined entrance complete with al fresco dining for 30; a cozy, den-like lower-level hideaway complete with a pressed-tin ceiling; and an open-plan, bilevel top floor with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Wells Street that will open in the warmer months.
Warm leather tufted banquettes line the back walls of each room, while dark blue leather tufted barstools round out each dining table. Electric blue leather tufted barstools line each bar, giving each space a vibrant pop of color.
Dimmed chandeliers fill the bilevel top spaces, while industrial-style lightbulbs grace the ceilings of the lowest level of SteakBar. Three large vertical fixtures strung with bare lightbulbs fall above the spiral staircase opening, which sets the scene for the elevated DJ booth.
rd+d: What are some of the design features of the bars?
RI: Each of SteakBar’s three bars features a black subway tile backdrop with dark wooden touches and a gold tap system, framed by a delicately lit arch to set the bar’s bold features apart from the rest of the dining room.