Vol. 39

"The bar team at this swanky cocktail haven inside the Kimpton Gray Hotel designs its menu to riff on and reinterpret classic mid-century American drinks. Recent submissions from a “judiciary-inspired” lineup include the punny Burden of Proof (Sazerac rye, ancho reyes chile, crème de banane) and Overruled! (pineapple rum, baijiu, pineapple, apricot). The decor channels the romantic intimacy of a fancy library, inspiring some local couples to book it as a wedding venue." - Naomi Waxman, Ashok Selvam

"Those seeking a serious spotlight on the classics will find it at this swanky libation haven in the Loop, which offers a menu spanning the greats, including nine different kinds of old fashioneds and a flight of history’s most defining drams. Inspired by the once fashionable three-martini lunch, don’t miss the six-martini happy hour, six one-ounce pours of the most sought-after martinis. Pair them up with any of chef Brian Millman’s bites, from deep dish potato chips to (Wagyu) pigs in a blanket." - Nicole Schnitzler

"Inspired by 1940s-era lounges, complete with book-lined walls and luxe, tufted-leather sofas, Vol. 39 is one of the two worthwhile bars at the Kimpton Gray Hotel , along with Boleo on the roof. Head bartender Jess Lambert handles cocktails at both venues. At Boleo, the vibe is Peruvian, with group-friendly punches or seasonal draft chilcanos . At Vol. 39, old-fashioneds are a focus: The bar's signature version is made with 30-year-old Armagnac and barrel-aged demerara sugar." - Brad Japhe

"Josh Relkin, the food and beverage director for Vol. 39." - Dillon Mafit

"Vol. 39, a swanky cocktail bar, has a new beverage director, Josh Relkin." - Daniel Gerzina