If you're interested in new Chicago gastropubs, consider dropping into one of these new spots. Here are the newest places to check out the next time you're in search of craft brews, cocktails and food that's a step above the usual bar fare.
Good Measure
226 W. Chicago Ave., River North
Good Measure is a bar and gastropub that sits just beneath the Chicago Brown Line stop and aims to give its patrons an escape from their daily routine. The spot is housed in a former turn-of-the-century tailor shop and pays tribute to the building's history by combining precision and craft. Expect checkered floors, vintage art, red neon lighting and leather barstools.
The new establishment comes from chef Matt Troost (Charlatan, Three Aces) and the cocktail program is directed by Sophia de Oliveira, reports Chicago magazine. Food options include the Sardinian flatbread with avocado, watermelon radish and lettuce; sunflower hummus with marinated zucchini; and fried chicken with honeydew slaw.
Beer and signature cocktails are also on offer. Look for boozy concoctions like the Penicillin, a scotch-based drink with ginger, honey and peat, or the gin-based Negroni with Campari and sweet vermouth.
Good Measure currently holds five stars out of six reviews on Yelp.
Andrew L. noted, "The food and bar are thoughtfully executed. Super friendly staff, well-crafted drinks and tasty food!"
Yelper Julie M. wrote, "Great new place! All the cocktails were tasty. Staff was very friendly. The burrata was yummy! A perfect snack. We're looking forward to coming back and trying more on the menu."
Good Measure is open from 4 p.m.–2 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. (It's closed on Tuesday.)
Broken Barrel Bar
2548 N. Southport Ave., Lincoln Park
Broken Barrel Bar is a gastropub and sports bar that recently opened its doors with house-smoked meats, a wide selection of local brews and a large beer garden.
Lined with graffiti art from local artists, this spot also offers signature cocktails and games like Giant Jenga to keep you entertained.
Start off with beer-battered cheese curds before opting for a Nashville fried chicken sandwich or crispy avocado tacos. Sides include fried plantains and roasted Brussels sprouts. Round out your meal with pecan pie for dessert.
Broken Barrel Bar is off to a promising start with four stars out of seven reviews on Yelp.
Yelper Tory B. wrote, "Just ate at opening night and had a great meal! Great selection of alcohol, wings and mac and cheese. What more can you ask for in life?"
David C. added, "We got our food and drinks with lightning speed. She checked on us the perfect amount of times and was always super friendly. The drinks were really good too. The portions are large as well. Priced accordingly. I will be back."
Broken Barrel Bar is open from 5 p.m.–2 a.m. on weekdays and 11–2 a.m. on weekends.
Merchant
3137 W. Logan Blvd., Logan Square
Merchant is a modern gastropub that offers brunch, dinner and late-night fare.
For breakfast and lunch, offerings include a parfait with roasted grapes and fresh granola; eggplant meatballs served with bread; and kimchi fried rice with bacon. Dinner options include scallops with braised fennel aioli; shrimp pad Thai with house fettuccine and peanut sauce; and salmon with cauliflower puree.
Beer, wine and signature cocktails are on offer. Try a handmade concoction like the Sidecar with brandy, tequila and lemon or the frozen Banana Lassi with rum, coconut milk, banana and vanilla. Here's the menu.
With a four-star rating out of 36 reviews on Yelp, Merchant has been getting positive attention.
Yelper Shawn W., who visited the new establishment on Aug. 4, wrote, "For the area, this place fits like a glove! Unique menu which, if you dine in Logan, you have to give it a shot."
Sara N. added, "It's rare that you get great service, innovative food and a really hip atmosphere. I would highly recommend trying out Merchant!"
Merchant is open from 10–2 a.m. on weekdays, 9–3 a.m. on Saturday and 9–2 a.m. on Sunday.
