Andersonville's nightlife landscape is set to shift with the recent announcement of Marty's Martini Bar's acquisition by the 2Bears Tavern Group and its subsequent relocation within the neighborhood. First reported by Block Club Chicago, the beloved cocktail bar at 1511 W. Balmoral Ave. will be moving to a new location at 1477 W. Winnemac Ave., formerly the home of Boca Loca Cantina. 2Bears Tavern Group operates several popular North Side LGBTQ+-friendly bars and now aims to further enhance Marty's Martini Bar experience while maintaining its charm and inclusive atmosphere.
The transition of ownership comes with promises of stability and growth for the bar's employees and patrons. Marty's staff are slated to retain their positions under the new management and will also see a 47% increase in base pay, a commitment made by 2Bears Tavern Group to pay their employees the full minimum wage for non-tipped employees, which was set during the COVID-19 pandemic. "We are delighted to welcome Marty’s into the 2Bears Tavern Group family," said Mark Robertson, co-founder of 2Bears Tavern Group, in a statement reported by Windy City Times. "Marty’s has long been a cherished venue in Chicago, and we are committed to preserving its unique character while enhancing the overall experience for our guests."
The new space is larger, with a capacity for 55 guests as opposed to the former's 43, and the move also allows for the addition of a sidewalk cafe that is planned to open in 2025. Marty’s Martini Bar's hallmark programs, such as the Martinis that Matter charitable giving initiative and the Birthday Club, will continue to be a part of the bar's offerings. Marty Rogo, the bar's founder, expressed optimism about the bar's future, stating, "I look forward to Marty’s Martini Bar flourishing at its new location," as mentioned in Block Club Chicago.
2Bears Tavern Group aims not just to simply replicate the look and feel of Marty’s Martini Bar at its new location, but they also intend to transport the bar's iconic interior elements—including furniture, artwork, and even the same paint colors—ensuring longtime patrons a seamless transition when the bar reopens this fall. In a nod towards accessibility, the new location complies with ADA standards, further emphasizing the inclusive ethos both enterprises share. "Our goal is to ensure that Marty’s Martini Bar continues to be a place where everyone feels welcome and can enjoy exceptional drinks and a fantastic atmosphere," said Mike Sullivan, co-founder of 2Bears Tavern Group, as reported by Windy City Times.
The last day for Marty’s Martini Bar at its current location will be on September 2, after which the establishment will temporarily close to prepare for its re-opening at the new address. This move highlights a growing trend within the Chicago bar scene, where historical and established venues find new life and opportunities through acquisitions by esteemed local hospitality groups. As the autumn months approach, Andersonville residents and cocktail aficionados from across Chicago are waiting eagerly to witness how 2Bears Tavern Group will uphold and evolve the legacy of Marty’s Martini Bar.
