Came in today with a group of eight friends over an hour after cocktail lounge opened (slower hours). I'll begin by mentioning the drinks tasted great & the ambiance/overall esthetic and setup of this space is really wonderful. Unfortunately, my low review is because of the obvious distastefulness of some staff who are serving & bartending here. My guests visiting from out of state wanted a stiff drink in the afternoon & from the website photos + reviews, Vol 39 seemed like an awesome place that could accommodate our party with the large sofa seating. I even called ahead to ask about walk-ins of our size to be extra considerate. We received shocking dagger glares from a few staff members which made all eight of us immediately uncomfortable before even being sat. Like we were committing a major crime for thinking we could step foot in here. Empty stack of glasses slammed on the table with a water pitcher placed beside them; "I'll be right back." In a sharp tone. Ok. But not if we're paying $20 per person per cocktail. We were rushed and this attitude persisted, it is lazy.. especially given it was extremely slow.. super surprising for such an elevated establishment. Then, after a long while, we were all asked what we wanted to drink, like a fast casual burger joint. No, "any questions about our selections" or, "may I give some suggestions?" Never came by to check on us once despite the three other two tops inside. We wrapped it up fast since we definitely could choose another location with more attentiveness & basic kindness. We paid, a hefty gratuity in small print on the check which.. you guessed it.. was automatically included but no mention of this tidbit by the server. Maybe this is why we revived all this mean girl energy from the jump? Because they'll still get paid really well regardless? All eight of us have been a part of the service industry and this one stuck out extra frustrating & annoying. Never leave a low review, I'm writing today to management because they will ruin your repeat clientele, seriously. People can find another fabulous cocktail with way better service & vibes in the city. Overall, it was a shame my friends experienced this gross behavior today in the fabulous city of Chicago. Hope the staff does better in the future and works on improving their outlook. read more

Really nice cocktail lounge in the Kimpton Gray Hotel Upscale, modern look with an antique library theme Cocktails on par with other lounges/bars, ~$20 per drink. Quieter spot to grab a drink or two with friends and intimate enough for a date too Old fashioned was very good, also they stamp the ice cube which is a nice touch read more

Vol. 39 - Bourbon Old Fashion - A cocktail with a lemon peel garnish is placed on a black napkin on a marble table. The drink appears amber-colored with ice cubes. In the background, there is a glass of water with bubbles and a brass lamp. The setting suggests an indoor bar or lounge environment with warm lighting. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Stopped in here when I was staying at The Gray in late November 2025, delightful menu of different styles of old-fashioned cocktails from classic to new and reimagined. The bar itself resembles that of an old library making for a very intimate atmosphere. Staff was very friendly and attentive. Only had one cocktail, but I did notice there are small bites to share with somebody I would make for a romantic date spot. read more

We went right before the crowd and the drinks were great! This is the perfect place to grab a drink with a friend. read more

Vol. 39 - A beverage in a clear glass contains ice, foam, and a lemon peel garnish. The drink appears to have a layered or mixed appearance, with foam on top and a lemon peel resting on the rim. The glass is placed on a marble surface, and a black object is partially visible in the background. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great spot to grab a cocktail after work! Love the ambiance as it's set in an old law office (they kept the books) w a legal theme on the drinks. Craft cocktails are great as is the cheese board. It's wise to make a reservation read more

Vol. 39 - Drinks for 4 - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My partner and I came in after driving 8 hours and were so excited to check this place out! We ordered the Provencal Tartine and the Warsaw Mushrooms. I believe they were sitting out for a while before they got to us, about an hour after we ordered. The mushrooms were cold when they got to us, and the Tartine was completely soaked. The server was very kind, and got the manager for us who took the food off but still charged us full price for the wine which we were a bit bummed about. It is a beautiful place, just really disappointed in the experience overall after traveling so long. read more

Cool spot, over priced. It's on the second floor of a Hyatt themed hotel. In a "library" filled with old encyclopedias. Building is beautiful but the Hyatt scent permeates ... hard to taste the wine. read more

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A beautiful lounge on the 2nd floor of the Kimpton Gray hotel, this place was a lovely atmosphere of romantic and contemporary, surrounded by law books on the shelves along the walls giving the place the feeling of academia as well. My husband made a reservation, and we were able to be seated earlier as we arrived before our time. The menu is small and concise. I ordered the Shared Assets cocktail, which apparently proceeds go to Howard Brown Health. All other cocktails were movie themed,.from Pirates of the Carribean to Blues Brothers. Each cocktail was perfectly executed and delicious. We also ordered some bites. The oysters were typical, and my husband enjoyed his burger. A lovely place to stop by with friends, coworkers, or for a date/anniversary night for some drinks. read more

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LOVED this spot! I had no idea this bar was here as it's sort of tucked away inside a hotel building - but it is by no means a mid hotel bar. Everything follows a "law" theme, from the walls of original law volumes to the themed cocktail list. It would be a super fun spot for law students to grab a drink at (or lawyers) Here's what our group tried and our thoughts: Objection! - essentially an espresso martini, rich and sweet with a little bit of a bittersweet taste. The hazelnut adds a nice hint of flavor, even our non-espresso-martini fans enjoyed it. 25 To Life - holy spicy!!!! This drink makes you feel like you're breathing fire (but in a good way). This is the spiciest drink I've ever had but as someone who loooves spicy drinks, it was what I've been waiting for. Our server said he made the spicy mix himself so props to him, I will note that our second round of the 25 to Life wasn't nearly as spicy so it's a 50/50 shot of breathing fire. If you don't like spice, don't even think about ordering this drink. Overall the flavor was so unique and I loved this one! Vol. 39 Old Fashioned - tasty and strong. All you need to know I don't remember the name of our last one, but it was a whiskey-based cocktail with a fruity tarte taste. Very good, came in a coupe glass if that helps. I want to give a huge shoutout to Samantha (I believe her name is Samantha), because she gave us a run down of the history of Vol. 39 and its law theme/background. She's a true storyteller and really rounded out our experience. Kudos to her as our fan favorite (but all the staff were outstanding). read more

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I won't lie lol, I almost missed this place though there is a huge sign on the outside of the building lol. It is very intimate, chic place. Great for drinks and light snacks. It reminds me of a very sophisticated library bar. I have only tried two drinks there (both were delicious) and the place can be a bit pricey. We came here after a dinner and decided to have a few more drinks. Our bill was a little bit shocking lol but the service was really amazing; they were very attentive. This place is great for meeting ups, dates and a good place to start or end a night. read more

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This place is amazing. Elegant and wonderful. I was surprised the served food. It's very comfortable looking, almost like a social library with couches, tables. Just comfortable to have a class of wine or cocktails. The service was prompt. Generous in his recommendations. I was staying inside the hotel, so I did frequent a couple times during my visit. THE BURGER!!! It's a must try. Decadent in itself. Juicy and flavorful. The truffle chips were delicious. I am actually glad it wasn't paired with French fries. The chips paired nicely. I also tried the tuna tartare. It was really good and fresh. The little crispy mochi was a nice complement. I am not a drinker. This was a business trip but I was coaxed into having a glass. I checked the site, but the Cabernet I had (California) was delicious. I wish I could remember the name. It's not the same Cab posted, but I had two glasses. It was smooth, not dry ... may need to call with my dates of visit to see what it was. But, barely made it to my room it was that smooth. Did not feel the effects until I stood up. Will be back! read more

Vol. 39 - Wagyu Smash Burger - A cheeseburger featuring a toasted brioche bun with black sesame seeds, melted cheese, and a beef patty is placed on a white plate. Next to it, a glass contains potato chips. The table setting includes water glasses, black napkins, and a QR code card, indicating a dining environment, likely in a restaurant or bar. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Nice cozy feeling spot for a cocktail/catch up. I would say it is "law themed" in the sense it has law books on the walls and presidential quote-named drinks, but nothing overt. I learned from the reviews that it was a former office with the books left behind, which is cool. Definitely on the expensive side, I think we got 4 drinks and with tip would have ended up being around $100. Feels like a hidden find, but maybe not a repeat destination. read more

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Vol. 39 on the second floor inside the Kimpton Gray Hotel is SUCH a great place to catch up with a friend or relax and enjoy a craft cocktail. The atmosphere was elevated, but inviting. I loved the fact that previously there had been a law office there and all of the legal books were left behind, so they incorporated them into the decor. There are also so many beautiful tall corner windows throughout bringing in great natural light. The servers/bartenders were very knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. And if all of that wasn't enough, look at these drinks... They were just as tasty as they are beautiful. They have rotating cocktails available as well as NA options. It is open to guests and the public, so if you're wanting a chill vibe where you probably don't have to fight a crowd, I would definitely recommend it. read more

Vol. 39 - We had their variation of an espresso martini, a Manhattan, as well as a phony Negroni (NA option). - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The reason to come to this place is ADAM!!! He is THE MAN! Working solo as the accomplished bartender with attentive assistants! Whether you are drinking or not he makes it a show and he is a master! A wizard!!! Working his heart out creating masterful inventions. Swirling, stamping ice cubes, mixing martinis, manhattans, champagne concoctions. Because he's so respected, people come up and say I need your recommendation of what I should drink today..Have you ever heard that before? I have not! I had the tuna tartar which came with great restaurant made crackers and was yummy but It was watery and a small portion and served in a tall bowl for this sort of dish -so a bit awkward to eat but I will not take my 5 stars away from Adam because of the chef. read more

Vol. 39 - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went to Vol. 39 for my first time last evening for some pre-dinner drinks and I was blown away by how great it was. The vibe is sexy with bookcases, dim lights, and low, comfortable chairs to sit in rather than standard table and chairs. In addition, the drinks are delicious, thoughtfully put together, and simply wonderful. Lastly, the staff was extremely professional, knowledgeable on the beverages, and kind. Highly recommend for a date night, girls night out, or really any occasion! read more

Vol. 39 - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We were looking for a place for pre-dinner drinks, and this place fit the bill! Comfortable seating areas and a chill vibe. Drinks were good....a bit on the pricey side, but that is totally to be expected for this part of the city. Nice attentive service without being overly in-your-face. If you decide to check it out, know that it is on the 2nd floor of the Kimpton Hotel. Cheers!! read more

Vol. 39 - Nice vibe with comfortable seating areas. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very, very cool low key spot located on the second floor of The Kimpton Gray Hotel. Definitely closer to a hidden gem than most places people claim are hidden gems. The atmosphere is super relaxed and the menu fits that persona. I usually go with an old fashioned but decided to get a "Doctor's Orders" which is Doctor bird Jamaican rum, strawberry demerara, creme de banane, pineapple, passionfruit, coconut, lime. Super tasty. The server was really great at making recommendations and did a great job exposing the menu. Aside from their sophisticated cocktails, they have a great beer and wine list as well. While this visit was super quick - I'll stop back in for sure when I'm back in the area! read more

Vol. 39 - The image shows the interior of a bar with a high ceiling and decorative molding. A bar counter with four patrons seated is visible, with shelves of bottles behind the bar. The space includes seating areas with chairs and tables, and large windows allowing natural light. The decor includes dark wood and black accents, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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They have a drink catalog that will put most bars and lounges to shame! Too bad I did not like many of them that I order. The Sherry Cobbler was my favorite but it had milk in it I believe but you can't taste it. The other plus is the service and the atmosphere is amazing. I never had to track down a server for refills on water or to place a drink order. This is why I don't believe I should give them a lower review. Fyi, the bathroom is outside in the made lobby. read more

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Very pricey. $80 for 4 glasses of a $30 bottle. Flat bread lacked crunch. Top was done but bottom was doughy. Mains were good. Ambience is a 2. Walls are bare. No vibe. $300 for 2 people. Pass for me. read more

Sweet, cozy little cocktail bar tucked in the second floor of the Kimpton Gray Hotel in the Loop. The Black Manhattan I had was divine. Great, attentive bar and serving staff, and a dimly-lit but welcoming atmosphere with shelves crammed full of old books. It was nice to be able to sit alone and sip a cocktail while I enjoyed the company and conversation of strangers. Be prepared to wait for a spot to sit. It's on the pricier side, but it's worth treating yourself while you're in town or when you just want a top-shelf drink. read more

Vol. 39 is a classy and cozy spot located inside Kimpton Gray in downtown loop with an impressive drink list and some food options as well. I had El Elotero which is a tequila-based cocktail with flavors that is reminiscent of elotes including a salty coconut foam on top. It's one of the most clever cocktails I've had in a while. I also tried the Chaos Warp which was tart but refreshing. It's hard to find a spot in the downtown area that's not blasting loud music, so I think it's a great place for a date night or catching up with a few friends over delicious cocktails. read more

Vol. 39 has literally been part of my Yelp bookmark list for years. I finally stopped by before having dinner nearby. I was initially excited to try a couple of the cocktails I saw online. Unfortunately, none of these cocktails were available. The waiter mentioned that several of the menu items online were no longer available and that the website was pretty out of date. Hopefully this changes soon. I ended up ordering their version of an espresso martini (Wake up Martini). I thought it was pretty good. I liked the vintage library vibes inside this place. read more

Good cocktails and pretty ambience inside with high ceilings. I wish the chairs were more structured so I didn't sink into them while eating/drinking but otherwise positive experience. read more

Vol. 39 - Ambience - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I hate to be leaving this review but I felt really unwelcomed when I came to this place. I arrived around 5 pm to grab some drinks with my friends. I asked for seats for 5 and was told there were no availabilities. I saw some seats open but assumed best intentions and that they were saving the seats for a reservation. I asked if I could be added to the waitlist and was told that there is no waitlist. I also asked if I stood outside for a bit, how long they think it would take for me to possibly be seated. The host said they are really unsure that I would get seats and sent me off. My friends went and tried just a few minutes after me and they were seated right away. I was dressed in business casual attire and it didn't seem like they had a dress code (but if they did and told me, I could have changed). They let me and my boyfriend join our friends AFTER we told them that they sat our friends. They sat us on the exact table that was already open when I had asked as well. Also five minutes after being sat, the WHOLE place was pretty empty... so I don't know why they really pushed to not seat us. The drinks and our server was good but I think the host is losing them business. read more

Such a cool hidden gem in the loop! Great quiet environment (amazing for work meetings!) with awesome craft cocktails and beer. Super comfortable seating with tables or couches. I didn't try any of the food (I will next time), but the cereal milk rum is literally one of the more creative drinks I've ever had and seen! I would give 5 stars but I would encourage music be played and the service to be a little faster/happier. Maybe it was an off day for our server but he didn't seem very busy but didn't really appear to care or go above and beyond. With the type of clients this place attracts, the better the service the better the chances of a return visit! Business travelers and local visitors love great service. Easy 4 star (probably 4.5)! Can't want to go back! Cheers! read more

Normally I avoid bars in hotels but we were looking for a nightcap after dinner nearby and decided to try Vol. 39. First of all, I loved the swanky vibes and even though it wasn't busy at all, it was a nice respite (especially during covid). We sat up at the bar and the bartender walked us through the booklet of drink options. Many of the cocktails had ingredients I was unfamiliar with, so it was nice to chat through it before deciding. Beware, they are pretty expensive even for Chicago so we only stayed for one drink. I got the Cobbler #5, which was unique and quite enjoyable, and my date got the japanese whiskey old fashioned, which was also top notch. A great option if you're looking to enjoy a high quality, unique cocktail in the loop. read more

Vol. 39 - He got the japanese whiskey old fashioned and I got the sherry cobbler #5 - A menu displays a selection of cocktails including Japanese Whisky, Rye, and Sherry Cobbler, with detailed ingredient lists and prices. The menu is organized into sections, with some items under 'Agriculture,' and includes descriptions of spirits, mixers, and garnishes. The layout is clean, with clear text and pricing, indicating a bar or restaurant setting. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Maybe the best bar in the worst location in Chicago. It's a library with a great cocktail menu, excellent service, and a fantastic look. But you almost have to be visiting friends staying in the Loop to justify driving there, and on the day I went, you had to walk to a different side of the hotel to access stairs to get inside. Save for those logistical challenges, a good time! read more

Terrible service. Charcuterie tray that was so basic. Uninspiring. I will not return. Had a non-drinker and zero mocktail offerings. There are much better places to go. read more

Great little spot, for a good cocktail and catching up with friends. Loved the books and overall vibe.

For my 1,700th review, I wanted to share a cool ass speakeasy in Chicago. I met an ex-coworker here at her rec, and I'm glad I did. Vol 39 is located at the Kimpton Hotel. She ordered a few mezcal concoctions ($19), while I had several Forteleza reposados w/ one block of ice ($18). The drinks from Ruben were excellent. He was using his skills all night bc he was very busy. Regarding the ambiance, you can sit at the bar like us, or there are several tables to sit at and talk. Its very inviting at Vol 39. When you are traveling, go where the locals go. This was def not a tourist spot. read more

Vol. 39 - Forteleza reposado w/ a rock ($18) outstanding - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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A super nice and cozy spot in the Loop if you want to get a good drink in a classy setting. I am usually skeptical about hotel bars, but this one is different. My husband said he had the best martini of his life here! It is very intimate and quiet, with nice views and impeccable service. read more

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Vol. 39 is such an uber cool spot for after work or late night. The price of their cocktails may put a dent in your wallet but it'll definitely be worth your while. The bartenders are very sophisticated in their cocktail making so whatever drink you select I am sure you'll be satisified. My favorite is the Mezcal Old Fashioned--smokey in taste with the richness of a traditional Old Fashioned. And the ambiance seems to cater to many-- from older gentlemen conducting business to younger professionals catching up over cocktails on the comfortable couches. read more

Vol. 39 - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Price gouging comes to mind when I think of Vol. 39. The drinks are nice and they do carry a varied selection of difficult to find spirits. As many of you know, I don't mind splurging on food or drinks. ..I just didn't walk away feeling like we got our money's worth. read more

Vol. 39 - Cheers - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I can only comment on the bar, but they have a wonderful selection of spirits (well over 100) including quite a few single malt scotch selections. The ambience is wonderful. The music was just the right volume, and the windows looking down on the streets below provide for wonderful people-watching opportunities with the board of trade building in the distance. The service is polite and professional. I will certainly return. read more

Loved the overa vibe of Vol. 39. Great place for a yummy cocktail. The service was great and appreciated the knowledge of drinks. read more

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Went to the Vol 39 for an after dinner drink. Thing to know is it's in the second floor of a hotel - I think it's the Kimpton. Very cool library bar vibe almost like a speakeasy. We had two comfy chairs and enjoyed a very generous double pour of Blantons. Our waiter took great care of us! Definitely making plans to return! read more

Gorgeous upscale library-feel and bespoke furniture. Service was impeccable and prompt. My partner and I have the over the sea old fashioneds, which were top notch. We also shared the cheese board and charcuterie board. The Brie was simply the best I've ever had. And we also loved to picked beech mushrooms in tempura, a special treat. Highly recommend for a date or indeed for a group of friends. read more

Really cool spot to hang out and grab drinks. We ordered a cab and an orange wine and both were good. Right in the loop and close to the train station read more

Vol. 39 - Orange wine - A person is seated at a bar table with a glass of rosé wine prominently in the foreground. The table also has several water glasses and a lit candle. In the background, a bartender is visible behind a well-stocked bar with bottles and glasses, and another person is standing at the bar. The setting appears to be a dimly lit, modern bar or lounge with dark decor and large windows. - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great atmosphere for a cocktail. Absolutely loved it here. The staff was wonderful and the setting was perfect. Intimate seating, however the acoustics make it so that you feel like you're on your own island and not surrounded by other couples or groups. read more

Vol. 39 - Wine Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Vol. 39 has been on my list for a while, and my husband and I made reservations to go for a post V-day dinner drink, however, I was really sick and it got pushed back three weeks. We went to dinner, then stopped by for a drink. We did not make a reservation this time, having had to cancel twice because I was sick. The tables were reserved, so we sat at the bar, and let me tell you how absolutely wonderful that was!! To start, we got an Old Fashioned and a Black Manhattan, which were really good. I noticed they carry Louis XIII, but for $400. Most places I have seen carry it, the price is for 1/2 oz., so I asked the bartender, Jordan, who said it was for 2 oz. Yes. Expensive, but, in comparison, oddly reasonable. This got us talking, and Jordan, shared some fantastic information and guidance about cognac, and gave us a list of really great cognacs that are well made, artisanal, but that don't come with the same cost as Louis XIII. This brings me to my last point, I got a second drink, and, Jordan, recommended a cognac drink, which I loved. Long story short. Go to there, and sit at the bar. Staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and the ambiance is really beautiful and welcoming. We will be back! Thank you. Great local, yet, downtown area for non-locals. read more