Swanky interior design gurus from across the nation are lending a helping creative hand to Chicago restaurateurs resulting in dining experiences that are both tasty and visually stimulating. After all, having a stylish décor will keep people talking and coming back for more! We have identified two restaurants that offer superb cuisine and stand out as stylistically décor-fabulous.
Billy Dec, co-owner of Rockit Bar & Grill, believes visitors to Chicago crave for a dining experience that is both comfortable and affordable. “You are too often forced to forego atmosphere and hit a simple café or dive bar…a lot of people wish they could have both – great food at a moderate price, yet in a stylish setting,” said Dec.
Nate Berkus, internationally recognized as a regular fixture on The Oprah Winfrey Show and host of Oprah’s The Big Give, was employed to design Dec’s restaurant the look that features contemporary American grill fare with a sophisticated edge.
The building was built in the early 1900’s as a lamp factory so the design approach for the space exudes a raw, warehouse feel that bursts with 21st century style. This is one of the few original loft spaces in the burgeoning River North neighborhood. The restaurant features a grand staircase elegantly connecting the two levels and Berkus’ true genius comes to life as he blends old and new elements.
“The space is an evolution of ideas and materials that is the product of many shared ideas," Berkus said. "It is architecturally intriguing, with the existing ceiling heights and original industrial details left intact the design combines modern elements with raw materials to create an area that has an industrial edge.”
Room 21 is located in Chicago's burgeoning South Loop neighborhood and serves up American bistro fare. Internationally noted designer Jerry Kleiner provides his interpretation of a parlor-bordello, mixing modern materials with European accoutrements. Through an eclectic array of antiques and hand-made pieces, he puts a sensual spin on the buildings checkered past.
Experience a colorful, sultry atmosphere that balances bold, masculine design elements and soft feminine touches. Featured in the main dining room is a colorful art installation made of 1930s and 1940s Chicago street sweeper bristles, which brings your focus to the center of the room. This piece divides the bar area from the main dining room. The dining chairs have alligator patterned, embossed brown leather seats with silk and velvet Damask patterned chair backs in red and black. Non-stamped Louis Vuitton luggage handles accentuate the back of each chair which resides at metal tables with tapered legs.
During the construction of the restaurant Kleiner discovered a hidden tunnel that lead him to a rusty, metal door which read Room 21, leading out to 21st Street. He believes this passageway was used during the Prohibition era. Richard Lindberg, local historian and author of Return to the Scene of the Crime, notes Room 21 was the first place Elliot Ness raided as leader of the Untouchables, on June 15, 1930.