Looking for a place to relax after work?
Then look no farther than the sleek bar/art space Dusk, at 1518 N. Throop St.a stone's throw from the seasonal Jack Frost pop-up and near the Clybourn Corridor.
In some ways, Duskwhich opened Dec. 2is a secret that some may want to remain that daybecause of the vibe and the drinks (more on those later). However, the art is also pretty impressive. The works that are displayed will mainly focus on one artist at a time, according to manager Rachel Burnetta dynamic and gregarious whirlwind who's a combination bartender, therapist and storyteller. (By the way, the Detroit-raised Burnett also heads Motorcity Mixers, which provides professional bar services; see www.facebook.com/MotorcityMixers/ .)
Dusk is a unique cultural experience from Northworks Architects & Planners, who have collaborated with some of Chicago's top restauranteursbehind such spots as Ada Street, Tortoise Supper Club, Split Rail and moreto bring their concepts to life. Currently, Dusk is only open Thursdays and Fridays at 5-10 p.m., although Burnett said the hours will expand to 4-11 p.m. after the new year.
Nowlet's talk about those drinks. Although Burnett could probably make just about anything if asked, the main menu showcases seven cocktailseach inspired by one of Northworks architectural projects from around the country. My friend absolutely loved The Greystone, an ebony concoction of blackberry rambutan syrup, yellow chartreuse, lime, mezcaland activated charcoal. (She said she didn't really taste the charcoal, and thought the drink was "absolutely delicious.") I opted for the lovely and delightful cocktail The Aspen, which incorporates rose-infused house vodka, grated cinnamon, raspberry syrup lemon and soda. There are also items like The Desert Retreat (Casamigos blanco, agave, guava nectar pureee, lime and Fever-Tree Brovo Pink) and The Lodge (Basil Hayden's bourbon, angostura bitters, pomegranate-blood orange and demerara syrup), among others.
Now is the time to get in on the ground floor. Be sure to check Dusk; you're guaranteed to have a good timethanks to the drinks, art and Rachel.
The website should be up and running by Dec. 22; it's duskchicago.com . Also, call 773-809-3811.