Definitely lives up to the hype. Staff is amazing and drinks are top notch. Regular customer and would never hesitate to recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago! Manager and the rest of the staff is amazing! read more

Place is bank but you didn't come here for cheap drinks anyways. You came for the ambiance. You came for the wow factor. You came for the VIP feel and respect. All of these things are provided at a high level and they even have this cool old school wax seal for their papers. Intimate setting for a small group so you should definately check it out. Just remember to drink before you come unless you are ready to take some damage to your wallet. read more

Being at the office and doing a real check-in does kinda mean that I'm better than you. Well, maybe for those two hours only as I'm really not better than anyone. I just want to feel like I am, ha. I'm still kinda in the post-coital glow of having been here after a friend hooked up the reso for here after our trip to next. Now, office was going to lead to a very balla night from me, so I had to make it all count. Naturally I had to hit up one of the cocktails. I got the gin based drink and it really was one of the best cocktails I've had. Period. Was it worth the $20, who's to say. But, I did enjoy the shit out of it and really enjoyed watching the man behind the bar make it (I hate using the term mixologist, but he was also way more than a shitload better than a "normal" bartender). Me being me, my eyes naturally were going to dart to the scotch list. Obviously everything was top notch. I mean, everything in the Office was top notch, so why on earth would I not expect the scotch list to be anything but? So, yes, yes it was a great list and I enjoyed two killer scotches. Granted, they weren't cheap, but yet again, how does one put a price on tasting some of the best in their life? Why will I not say what they were, because I need to keep those for myself and try to get the scotches around town! Simply put, The Office ruled. This is one of those places you need to go if you get the chance. Cheap is not the word to use here, but you don't come to the office to have an affordable night with PBRs and wolfschmidt vodka. You come here to have an amazing experience with killer drinks. You can keep things somewhat more affordable here, but I couldn't allow myself to do that. While my wallet needs a bit of a rest from here, I will return and enjoy the experience again. read more

Eh. I lived in Bridgeport for five years, so I don't like to feel like I'm being bullshitted. And I felt like The Office was bullshitting a little bit. Everything is a little too much. The low lighting, the low ceiling, the heavy carpets, the heavy furniture, the bookcases, the locked door. It's all just, too much. We came down here after a few drinks up stairs, and I think that added to the "too muchness". You can only have so many exquisitely crafted and thought out cocktails and food items before you're like "Oh to hell with it, gimme a budlight, I need something to cleanse my palette". If you want a genuine speakeasy experience, go to the Green Mill. It's real people. read more

Hands down the greatest bar experience ever. The bar tenders are knowledgable and passionate about their craft. They also have an extensive collection of vintage liquors specifically whiskey and chartreuse. The office is essentially the opposite of the upstairs bar the aviary. The office is classic drinks done better than you've ever had and with a slight twist. Whereas the aviary is a flashy show of molecular mixology, which is cool in its own right. read more

I can't help feeling as if The Office leaves something to be desired. Perhaps my expectations were too high, but given its "siblings" and its exclusivity (hostess actually has to unlock a door to grant access), it seems like high expectations are to be expected. And it was cool and comfortable, and the food and drinks were certainly good, they just didn't blow me away. First, let me say that I like whiskey (perhaps an understatement) and I'm not particularly price sensitive. The Rye cocktail that I ordered was nice... and the $20 price tag is fine... but it just wasn't remarkable. My fiance's rum cocktail was less palatable - fully dominated by lime. And the ice cream sundae was good, but its size was the only thing that really differentiates it from others (menu says for 2, but really, it feeds 4 easily.) I guess I would have been more impressed by fresh berries in place of the Maraschino cherries, even though it would lower the nostalgia quotient. So, once the coolness and exclusivity wears off, it's hard to justify another round as opposed to going elsewhere (including right upstairs.) Though I'm not on the 5-star bandwagon here just yet, it's not to say that I won't return to give it another shot. Can anybody comment on the beef tartare? read more

Any place that you have text to ask to be let into their restaurant is ok in my book. A good buddy of mine had been here and said we had to check it out. We went in on a Wednesday night, were greeted with an aperitif and escorted downstairs to the bar. Their selection of booze is pretty solid and what is cool is they have prohibition era alcohol but bring your coin purse because it is going to cost you. A mixed craft cocktail will run you $20 bucks but they are masterfully done. The bar tender has a vast knowledge of ways to craft a drink that you are sure to like. It was truly an art to watch. They have some exclusive bourbons (Pappys) at a pretty solid price considering this place is going for the speakeasy vibe. I heard the food is awesome but is very expensive. We came post dinner so unfortunately I cannot comment on the food. Also, anytime your receipt comes in handwritten calligraphy with a wax seal you have done something right. I couldn't afford to go here every night but it is a pretty cool little place. read more

Despite a reservation, we had a wait because they only have a few seats downstairs. But once we got there, it was a stellar evening of perfect cocktails, true speakeasy style ambiance, and very friendly service! read more

I'm not sure if this should technically be a separate business as it is actually the hidden and more exclusive bar inside The Aviary but it is definitely worth checking out. They will let you in the office if they have room and ask about it. Generally this means being nice to your server and enjoying a couple of drinks at Aviary. Now I was a little too drink to tell you exactly what I had but the drinks were concocted based on a series of flavor profile questions the staff asks you when you are ordering. I would definitely say that they are doing some innovative stuff here, but not as over the top as upstairs in the Aviary. You can still always feel free to ask for a take on one of your favorite drinks. Overall great experience, classy Ron Burgundy-like interior. The staff even brought out cashmere blankets when a couple girls in the group got cold. read more

Wow! Hidden spot below the Aviary. Part of the Alina group, they understand the hospitality industry and they don't forget the details. They have a large selection of old spirits as well as expert crafted customized cocktails. read more

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Went to Next for dinner, then to the Aviary for drinks, and then wound up here for one last round. If you are able to score an invite, go. It's that simple. It is a very different experience than upstairs, and well worth trying to get in. It's like being in a very private club, dark and mysterious, and the focus on darker spirits is a great complement to the surrounding. I had a cocktail with whiskey and some sort of chili, it had just the right amount of kick without bringing out too much of the heat of the spirit. Final Thought: If you can get it, Go! Even if it's just for one round. read more

I assumed that we were going to love this place, but it was very disappointing. The drinks, along with the food, were average, at best. Everything was extremely over priced! We made a reservation for two and were not even sat at a table but rather in two individual chairs with a 1x1 ft side table in what appeared to be a waiting area in the middle of the room. The chairs were so far apart and it was so loud that we could barely hear each other. The ambiance and decor were nice but the food and drinks were nothing exceptional and the prices were ridiculous for the size and quality. We definitely won't go back and we wouldn't recommend it to anyone. read more

This review is primarily to compare and contrast the Milk Room, at the Chicago Athletic Association, and The Office, which belongs to the infamous Aviary Group. In terms of price point and concept, I find these two bars are not only relatively similar to each other, but also, in comparison to other bars, very unique. Personally, I think everyone should go to BOTH, since both of them are good in their own ways, but this review is meant for people who can only go to one, or are having a tough time choosing between the two for a specific occassion. If you don't feel like reading the whole thing. Here's the gist: Milk Room = SUPER individualized attention, opportunity to learn a lot about alcohol and try new things, exclusive feel due to limited seating, good for a special occassion; The Office = chill vibe/atmosphere, drinks more focused on your current mood than liquor preferences, better for catching up with friends, way above normal bar standard food available I went to both of these places for my boyfriend's birthday. Milk Room in 2016 and The Office in 2017. I think for a special occassion with your significant other or best friend, Milk Room is much more suited. The establishment only has 8 seats, and you can only make reservations for two people at a time. This itself makes it feel more exclusive and special. On top of that, at Milk Room you really get individualized attention, due to the small amount of clientale at the bar. The bartender was continuously asking us what we thought of our drinks, but not in a way that made us feel unnecessarily obligated to converse with her the entire time. You would assume due to the layout, that you would be awkwardly forced to make small talk with the bartender, but that is not the case at all. The experience at Milk Room is akin to one you would get ordering omakase at the sushi bar of a top Japanese restaurant: undivided and incredibly personalized attention from someone who is very knowledgeable and has been doing this for years. For those of you who have been to Milk Room, and are now looking to go to The Office, DO NOT expect the same experience. They don't tend to seat people at the bar, unless you specifically ask, which really makes the experience very different, since you don't get that same individualized attention. Sidenote: Another reason I liked it better for an occassion was due to the complimentary birthday dessert we recieved at the Milk Room! It was a dessert from the kitchen of the Cherry Circle Room, and it was amazingly done. On the other hand, at The Office we got the usual tiny ice cream birthday cone. Although adorable, I personally do not enjoy the taste. The Office, on the other hand, I think is better suited for someone who wants a specialized cocktail experience, but maybe isn't incredibly knowledgeable about alcohol and their alcohol preferences. Milk Room's experience can often feel wasted (especially at the cost level), if you don't have the pallete for and experience with spirits. The Office has high quality alcohol, but you can really focus on the flavor profile and your current mood to craft your cocktail, more so than at Milk Room, where I personally felt the focus was a lot more on specifying your favorite spirit AND THEN the flavor profile you enjoy. The space is meant to feel like your home office, with comfy chairs and couches, where you can really sprawl out for a few hours and enjoy a variety of really good cocktails. It is not similar to the Aviary at all, where the focus is really on the dramatic effect of the cocktails. The Office allows you the opportunity to drink amazing cocktails, while feeling like you are in the comfort of your own home. So, if you are looking for an incredibly upscale bar where you can catch up with your friend(s) for a couple of hours, this is the spot. I think that this is tough to do in a lot of places, Milk Room included. Sidenote: There are very good food options at The Office. You can order the "famous" Truffle Explosion at The Office, even though it isn't explicitly listed on the menu. Both of these places will offer you the opportunity to try spirits you maybe ever knew existed or wouldn't have the opportunity to try otherwise without paying $$$$. The Office is known for their truffle infused whiskey. Although I did not get the opportunity to try this, it's definitely something that is unique! Milk Room gives you the opportunity to really learn about your alcohol preferences, as well as the alcohol making process. If you are curious, the bartender will be willing to give you samples of a couple "shots" (not shots, meant for sipping) of your favorite liquor. My boyfriend got to try a couple of different types of rum, all of which were bottles that would retail at hundreds of dollars! I would say no matter which of these establishments you go to, go in with an open mind, and be ready to try something new! Don't waste the opporunity on something you could get at any other bar. read more

A friend visiting from Mexico convinced the bouncer that we had come from so far only to visit the speakeasy. She said we would be happy to just go downstairs to look at it, have drink and leave in no more than 40 minutes. So, somehow, the serious guy thought it was a pretty good argument and let us go downstairs in between reservations. It was great! I ordered a durian-based cocktail and my friend had a whisky with cigar and wood notes to it. The bartender at the time (this was in 2013) was amicable and very very skilled. He explained all the ingredients to us and, since we sat at the tiny bar, showed us step by step how the cocktails were done. It was a great experience. If you can get in, savor every small thing about it: the decor, the bartender´s skills, the appetizers and, of course, the feeling of exclusivity that comes with a visit to The Office. read more

We enjoy a good cocktail, and part of our agenda in any city is to find the spot to have them. The Office is it for Chicago (a town where you can get good cocktails in plenty of places!) In case you get confused like I did, The Office is in the same building as The Aviary--look for the Aviary sign to enter. The food is light bites, so plan on dinner elsewhere. And frankly, we weren't as wowed by the pricey truffle cocktail we purchased (to share!) The "regular" cocktails were actually yummier. Ambience is delicious, and service is great. Enjoy! read more

Went here for a birthday night cap. We had a GREAT time. The server was very patient with us and she had the mixologist create our custom cocktails. I need to go back when I can afford everything on the pour menu lol read more

I'm in love with this place! We had the mussels and they were so delicious! It comes with two baguettes too that help soak up all the sauce and makes the meal very filling. The drink were so yummy. So we ordered the parsnip and another drink on the cocktail menu but the name is escaping me. The parsnip was light and full of aromatic flavors. I would definitely get it again. The other cocktail was also very good and was more smoky. The waiter offered to make us special cocktails based on the flavors and alcohol we liked but we were surprised that they would do that so didn't take him up on it this time. We will definitely do that next time! read more

We had an early reservation and were sat immediately. Upon entering the speakeasy we were pleasantly surprised by the cool decor and feel of the small space. We were sat at two armchairs facing the direction of the bar. Initially we were happy with it but became problematic when it came down to sharing food. We ordered a savory Manhattan and a Milk punch to start off, which were good. Then we started ordering food and it became clear that the seats were not ideal for sharing tartar. They gave us an additional small table which helped but was difficult to mix and place the tartar on bread while holding the plate. Perhaps we could have been more vocal about moving to the 5 seat bar beforehand but the bar was full by that time. We ordered another round of drinks and they were fine but not worth returning. It was ok to try once but probably not again since the Aviary is so much better of an experience. read more

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Just not worth it. We came here for a birthday, and the birthday boy splurged on a cocktail that cost $100+. The bourbon in it was good, but there was almost nothing else in it. Could have bought a bottle of a similar quality spirit for maybe double the price--certainly not enough to justify the price on this one, small cocktail. I ordered a rum cocktail off page one of the menu, the lowest-price page, where cocktails cost *only* (cough) $20. It allegedly had passion fruit and hops and curry bitters in it, but it just tasted like very cold rum. Rum and ice. If it had cost $12 at a bar with fewer pretensions, I might not have minded. But at these prices (we had to meet a minimum of $200 for a group of four) it did not pass muster. The ambiance is nice--supple leather couches, taxidermied owls, fine art. But it's not super differentiated from other bars with elbow patch vibes, like The Darling. It seems like the first, cheapest page of the cocktail list is designed to be more experimental, and to drive people to the more expensive pages where more traditional cocktails cost $60, $100, or even $350+. I assume that most patrons spending in that range have no idea how much they're getting ripped off, or don't care. If you just like spending money for the sake of it, have at it! But if you want to learn about or experience good cocktails, there are plenty of more affordable places in Chicago where you'll have a better experience. read more

I'm lucky enough to have been given the coveted "HR Department" line and finally put it to good use. I can't speak to the food as we had just eaten before coming here, but the drinks were top notch. Everything about the Office lends to it's something that was extremely thought through and not just thrown together. From antique glasses to hand chipped ice to the prohibition era decor pulls the perfectly mixed drinks all together. The bartender really takes his time and obviously knows more about cocktails that I could ever dream of. Every drink we had here was better than the last and the intimate feel only added to the "fun" factor. I'll definitely be back and hopefully with an appetite! read more

If this isn't the best bar in the world, it's heads and shoulders the best bar I've ever been to. The prices are what you would expect from a one-of-a-kind institution that sources its own whiskey barrels direct from the distilleries. But you wouldn't be here if you were concerned about price. This is the ultimate drinking cave. I can't get enough antique leather furniture to enjoy fine, dark spirits. The staff was beyond knowledgable of all libations. It's a finely curated experience. I cannot wait to come back. read more

I have to say for a place that is associated with one of the best chefs in the world the experience here is just ok. There is nothing special about the cocktails, they are super tasty and well prepared but nothing too out of the ordinary for the price. The experience is paying for the exclusivity of the area that if you are not aware of it you would have no idea it was there. Glad I went and experienced it but not really desiring to go back now. What it did do was let me stand upstairs on the way out and see the amazing preparations of food and drink for The Aviary upstairs. Wow really can't wait to go and do the whole evening up right there. What I saw there I guess was my expectation for the cocktails at The Office. read more

Uh...would it be frowned upon if I asked to move in here? Pretty sure I would be happy crashing on one of those cozy couches for the rest of my days. My husband and I had dreamed of coming here since...well, since before he was my husband (or even fiancé). When we got tickets to Next (and had been sitting on the number to text for reservations for a while), we decided to try our luck and were able to secure two spots. The Office is, in short, like your really wealthy and hip friend's basement (your friend may or may not be James Bond in this instance). You tell the bartender the kind of drink you're in the mood for, some magic happens behind the bar and it appears in front of you. All the while, great conversation is being had, the bartenders are playing around with different combinations (some of which you may get to sample, if you're lucky), and you start feeling good. It really feels like the world's best house party. Drinks, as others have mentioned, are pricey. However, in a town where a standard "booze+mixer" runs you almost that much in a nightclub and many cocktail joints start their more expertly crafted drinks at $11-12, I don't mind paying that for a custom drink in such a great environment. In our case (we sat at the bar and conversed with the staff and other patrons a great deal, so I can't vouch for how common this is), we ordered two rounds but in actuality saw more than those two drinks come our way (a sample of a tequila I mentioned I enjoyed in my drink, a taste of a drink a bartender was working on, and a shot's worth of fernet before heading on to Next), so in my eyes our roughly $100 bill was more than reasonable. read more

During my second visit to the Aviary I got invited to the Office. It came to be quite a surprise because I thought it would take more efforts to "earn my stripes", so to speak. The drinks and foods are impeccable. Very extensive selection of wine and spirits. It is a quintessential sophisticated speakeasy. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. The Office is undoubtedly extremely pretentious, but the simplicity of this place makes the pretentiousness enjoyable. For connoisseurs, this is the place that will put a big fat smile on your face after the first sip at your drink. This is my favorite place in town so far. read more

Got in here after the Aviary and continued snacking with the "Foie Gras" which meant I must have been a little tipsy... It came as a spread and was the richest thing I can ever recall devouring. Ugh, so so good. My friend and I really enjoyed ourselves. GLUTTONY. read more

Best. Cocktails. Ever. Had a "dealer's choice." Told the bartender/mixologist what I liked and let her do her magic. And it was magic. Phenomenal. Three types of housemade apricot liqueur, peppercorn, oregano, and other ingredients that I can't remember but which worked perfectly together. Also had the coffee cocktail. Absolutely incredible. Amaro, an entire egg, roasted poblano pepper, cigar smoke. Insane. Food was excellent too. Foie gras with strawberry rhubarb jam was very tasty. It will set you back a pretty penny, but for a special occasion or for an out-of-towner, worth the splurge. read more

Without fail, I am always impressed with the office. I do not want to set your expectations but do know the following: 1) the wait staff know their stuff. Give them a clear idea of what you like and they will keep you happy all night. 2) The food is meant to be shared and isn't going to fill you up but will keep you happy 3) plan to spend time and money. But it's all worth it. I'd pick the Office over Aviary any night read more

Cocktails were delicious, and I enjoyed watching the bartender do his thing. Really small, intimate, and exclusive place. The bartender even told us that the band Wilco was sitting in one of the booths behind us (we were at the bar), though he asked us not to turn and look. Loved the look, too. read more

This place is AMAZING! When we first arrived to The Aviary, we were mesmerized by the cocktails that were being made. I had never seen such beautiful drinks. I almost wanted to stay at The Aviary instead. But when we walked into The Office (speakeasy style), my husband and I knew we made the right choice. The room was dark and surrounded by 100+ year old bottles. The bartender and the server (two badass ladies) had a great chemistry when it came to relaying our taste and coming up with a delectable cocktail we'd enjoy. I had the best old fashion I've ever had in my life at The Office. I'm still thinking about it and it's breakfast time. We ordered a small bite, the salmon rillette... it was delicious! We spent about three hours here, nestled in the big brown comfortable armchairs and tried our best not to get wasted ordering a million drinks because each was was better than the last. This experience was one of our most memorable moments in Chicago and I can't wait to go back. read more

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This could be my shortest review ever. If you get the chance to go, go. Drink/Cocktail selection is phenomenal. Be sure to bury your face into the trough of foie. read more

The Office Quaint and secluded, The Office is one of my favorite watering holes in Chicago. The more modern and trendy Aviary which resides above ground is now my second favorite. The Office is a small space, which can fit maybe 14 - 16 people at a time, and you need a reservation or invite to get past the locked door (it's not hard to find a way in with Google). The decor is something that fits my personality and style perfectly. Take a recipe of wood, brown leather with a hint of fine scotch and you have a fitting description of what The Office looks like. It manages to make you feel like you are in your own basement having your own private party (with an magnificent mixologist, more on that below). The drinks at The Office are custom made to the tastes of each individual. Tell the mixologist what you are in the mood for and he will create a alcohol infused potion that will take you there. Sweet, refreshing, savory, woodsy, campfirey, the list is endless. I would recommend you read up on your cocktail tasting notes to get the most out of your experience there. The more color you can add to your cocktail request, the better your end result will be. The quote of the night when I went with my wife after a drink she described was "a warm winter cookie that makes you drunk." Overall, I would highly recommend The Office for everyone to experience. It is not a place you go to on a weekly basis, however, it is a place you wish you could. http://pbarot.blogspot.com read more

This place is expensive, but worth it! The service at the Aviary/The Office is on point. The drinks are incredible. I often marvel after attending one of Grant Achatz's restaurants/cocktail lounges about how much training the staff must go through. How do they find these brilliant cocktail makers? Do they head hunt? This bartender was able to whip up the best sazerac my husband has ever had in a creative and Inventive way in 2 minutes.Their dusty bottle collection is unbelievable. You will spend a lot of money, but if amazing Inventive cocktails are your thing- save up and just do it! read more

This place has an intimate ambience and very attentive staff. It's small and kept exclusively limited to a room of about 25 people. The bartender was friendly and chatty. What I loved most was the steak tartare with truffles. This was absolutely delicious. It was the perfect place for a second date. read more

Took my husband here for his birthday. I unknowingly booked tickets at The Office which is underneath The Aviary. What a great experience. It was intimate and perfect for a birthday occasion. The waitress spoke to us about our preferences, guided us on different palate preferences, and came back 15 minutes later with great drinks. read more

Wow. The Office blew me away with their service and presentation. This is one of those places it's nice having "connections" to. I felt like I was at a rich friend's mansion. The wine selection had all of my few favorite wines which is hard to find at Chicago establishments. But The Office caters to you so you leave with an experience. If you ever have the opportunity to get in or know someone that does, make sure you go. read more

The ramen cocktail and was not as bad as expected really though John & Ian were fantastic! Almost all our cocktails were dealers choice and ended up being fantastic! Playlist was like 3 out of 5 stars though read more

I ate plenty of stuff here,all of it extremely great. I assumed this place would be themed like the TV show the office but it turned out to be more about small Plates, veal tenderloin, and raspberry simple syrup rice pudding. read more

This bar has a unique hiding spot. It makes it feel exclusive. The service is great, they can make you any drink you want and make sure it's to your liking. They also have a big list of very unique spirits. We ordered oysters, they were fresh and delicious. Thank you for a great time! read more

The Office - American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We went as a group of 4 and therefore had to go with the pre fixe multi course cocktails w/food pairings. We had no dietary restrictions so let them know they could whatever they liked. Pros: -The atmosphere was very cozy -A couple of the drinks were outstanding and it was fun to try and figure out what you were tasting before finding out -The mussels were delicious and the bread dipped in the broth was too, too good... -The service was easy-going and made the experience feel pleasant and laid-back Cons: -The trouble with not choosing what you're drinking is that you'll likely end up with some drinks that aren't quite to your taste, even if you're an adventurous drinker. If a pre-selected menu is being offered, I think it'd make more sense to show off the ability to do classic cocktails with beautifully aged spirits better than most anyone can. -It sometimes felt like the novelty of each original cocktail outweighed the actual quality of each of the drinks - some just seemed kind of off to us, like they worked better than you'd imagine for what's inside but still not actually something you'd want to order again. -The ice cream sundae dessert. Honestly, vanilla ice cream with some gummy bears and skittles just doesn't seem all that amusing, even if it is served in beautiful dishes.. -The pacing of the food was kind of odd - we started with clean, minimal oysters and then mushrooms, which seemed to really compliment the drinks and keep the focus on the beverages. But then out came this insanely rich mussels dish that steered things in a new direction, followed by a beef carpaccio. As tasty as those mussels were, I would rather have kept the food a bit cleaner, since all that butter left me with quite a tummy ache and I started feeling a bit too full to enjoy my drinks later on. If I go back, I'd definitely skip any pre fixe and order a classic or something funkier that is to my taste. read more

Coming to The Office makes me feel fwancy. The chairs are plush and super comfy. The lights are low and romantic. And the drinks are strong. I love the artwork that fills the walls, and the leather bound rustic menu that lists their many premium spirits. I've been to The Office twice now. Both times were fabulous. If you're in a small party and lucky, you'll get seated with fun new people. We'll be back again soon. read more