Billy Sunday — Photo courtesy of Billy SundayDark, rich and sexy is how many would describe Billy Sunday, Chicago’s hottest new bar and restaurant which had developed a buzz before it even opened in the Logan Square neighborhood less than a year ago.
Billy Sunday is the name of a former Chicago White Stockings baseball player who turned away from drinking and became one of the most popular evangelists in American history. It’s the brainchild of Matthias Merges, of Yoshi restaurant fame, and although most people won’t recognize the name, it’s of little matter since they’re really coming for the cocktails, food and atmosphere.
It would be easy to dismiss Billy Sunday as a popular place for hipsters since it definitely has an urban vibe. And it's centrally located in what's becoming known as Chicago’s new restaurant row; next to the bar is a dry cleaner, graffiti is visible on nearby buildings and it’s dark inside. Belly up to the bar or ask to be seated at a table and those trendy thoughts move aside because this place has staying power. The bartenders are friendly and happy to recommend a drink from their creative cocktail menu.
Try an Old Fashioned prepared with bourbon, rabarbaro, cube sugar and essential oils or a Kent made with Navy-strength gin, cinchona bark, lemongrass, allspice and citrus. This place takes their cocktails seriously, but without the serious attitude.
Oysters Rockefeller at Billy Sunday — Photo courtesy of Billy SundayThe food is just as delicious and inspired by old-time Sunday suppers. Start with their artisanal bread with local butter and sea salt and consider the pot pie which is made using short ribs, root vegetables and rosemary biscuit. Although not on the printed menu, make room for their Oysters Rockefeller if it’s a daily special. They are enormous, beautifully prepared and taste amazing.
The desserts aren’t an afterthought. Choose from warm brownie featuring frozen custard, Fernet caramel and macadamia nuts or the decadent butterscotch with pot de crème, streusel and Honeycrisp apple.
Banana Pudding at Billy Sunday — Photo courtesy of Billy SundayEach of the drinks and desserts seem to be prepared in different styles of glasses or jars which makes the experience fun, too.
The dimly lit interior adds a romantic, speakeasy vibe but is still comfortable for drinks with friends. The tin roof, warm décor and beautiful light fixtures give Billy Sunday a warm ambiance.
From the beautiful décor to the attentive staff and imaginative, yet delicious drink and food menus, Billy Sunday is a great addition to Chicago’s food and dining scene.
