The service was great, they’re quite attentive. At no point did I feel ignored, and they maintained a perfect distance to serve. My only issue was the Negroni I ordered wasn’t chilled. For what I paid, I figured the drink should at least be chilled and the orange peel not mostly pith and not even expressed properly. I tasted the drink and it was still warm. It was built in the glass and given an albeit pretty ice cube. So I watched one of the bartenders. They were free-pouring cocktails while the jigger sat lonely on the bar. If you’re going to make cocktails at the level you’re suggesting with your atmosphere, vibe, and prices (consistent ones at the very least), a jigger is just step one. I sincerely hope that Bernard’s isn’t just riding the coattails of the Waldorf it resides in, making substandard drinks one could get at any dive bar. A beverage director worth their salt could transform Bernard’s cocktail game into one of the best in the city. If this ever happens, I’ll be glad to revisit, making sure I have the best seat at the bar.
Bernard’s is sophistication, darkness and seduction with an equestrian twist. Stepping into this landmark cocktail lounge, you’re immediately part of the history. The Japanese whiskey Old Fashioned stands out as a delightful twist on a classic, highlighting the creativity of the mixologists. Bernard’s is more than just a destination for fashion-inspired cocktails. Named after Bernard Heerey, a Chicago philanthropist who left a mark on the city. This spot pays homage to its namesake through its commitment to charitable causes.
Small cozy hotel bar on 2nd floor in Waldorf Astoria. Good cocktails.
We absolutely loved Bernard's within the Waldorf Astoria hotel on the beautiful magnificent Mile in downtown Chicago! They had some wonderful signature cocktails, as well as a nice food menu to choose from. We were just stopping in for a drink so we had the shrimp ceviche with tortilla chips and it was wonderful. We also appreciate that they had live music on a Friday night.
Came here yesterday evening for a cocktail with a friend. It wasn't quite what I expected My drink was very good, and they had a well rounded cocktail menu that would please most people, including a few appealing spirit-free drinks. The space has a lounge vibe, but the music wad a bit too loud / not really the right style for the space. A bit offputting My primary complaint is that our server was mediocre. The support staff were great (my water glass was constantly refilled, etc), but the server left much to be desired. Took at least ten minutes for initial contact, she did not know how to speak about any of the cocktails, did not check on us during service. And we were never shown a food menu, despite having asked for one. Overall I had a nice time, but would not make a point to return.
Friendly, accomodating, elevator a plus, valet parking, great food portions, mixologist know their craft! Wheelchair accessibility: Elevator available. Flat flooring.
The music gets too loud and makes it too hard to hear each other. Our Parmesan fries were only slightly above average. Get something else. Otherwise, we had some fragrant, beautiful cocktails. After one sip of mine, he couldn’t stop ordering rose drinks!!