Janitor’s Closet is the newly revealed speakeasy hidden on the lower level of the eclectic boutique hotel FieldHouse Jones in downtown Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Once known as “Smokey Hollow” due to the thick smoke that billowed from the many factories, this chic and artsy area, north of the Chicago River, is now the Windy City’s hottest neighborhood. Cheekily decorated with retro relics salvaged from old schools, flea markets, and thrift stores, the dimly lit Janitor’s Closet has 15 seats along with school bus-inspired booths and petite round tables lining the back wall.
Images: Dan Kelleghan
Lead Bar Man Jef Tate’s bar menu features his own personal riffs on classic and neo-classic cocktails with a focus on housemade syrups, infused liquors, sodas, and garnishes. “Taking advantage of the intimate nature of the bar allows a lot of room for experimentation,” Tate explains. “Guests can look forward unorthodox ingredients made in-house like june plum shrub, okra-infused vermouth, coconut gum syrup, and black garlic kombucha”.
Classic & Neo-Classic Cocktails at Janitor’s Closet Chicago
Brown Line
Mezcal, Tequila, Pineapple Gum Syrup, Tamarind, and Lime.
Last Swerve
Mezcal, Green Chartreuse, Hibiscus-infused Maraschino Liqueur and Lime.
Field’s Martini
Gin, Dry Okra Vermouth and Bitters with a Lemon Twist.
Cafe Con Leche Flip
Blackstrap Rum, Coffee, Heavy Cream, Simple Syrup and Egg Yolk.
Janitor’s Closet details
312 W. Chestnut Street (FieldHouse Jones Hotel), Chicago (River North); fieldhousejones.com; @FieldHouseJones
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