I know where I'm heading to when visiting Chicago in August...Rootstock Wine & Beer Bar in Humboldt Park!! It is the newest, and only, wine bar in Humboldt Park and has been making a name for itself since opening in May 2009. It has been getting rave reviews for its selection of biodynamic wines, small-production beers, and a menu using only local ingredients. From what I can tell the interior style is pretty impressive as well.
Rootstock was started by three Webster alumni- Jamie McLennan, Tonya Pyatt, and Johnny Hap. These three college friends took on the challenge of opening a wine bar in the midst of an economically challenging time and with banks not eager to lend money these days they decided to make the most of shopping at places like Craigslist and such for all of the furniture and place settings. One thing they would not skimp on though was stemware... that was sacred. Not only did they shop for everything themselves, but they did most of the construction work as well.
The interior style has been described by others as not very romantic, but very welcoming nonetheless. Its shabby-chic style, with its mismatched chairs and communal tables, make this California girl want to pay a visit when visiting the Windy City next time I'm there.
Rootstock Wine & Beer Bar, 954 N. California Ave., Chicago, IL 60622
www.rootstockbar.com
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