River North’s Anchor Undergoes Rock-Forward Relaunch
Chicago, IL – After 10 successful years as one of the iconic pioneers of the vibrant River North neighborhood, Rockit Bar & Grill is going back to its roots with a complete re-design that will once again cut against the grain and reveal a design that combines the past and future in an unprecedented way.
Scheduled to debut Spring 2015, 11 years after its original opening, Billy Dec, Brad Young and Arturo Gomez are poised to revolutionize River North once again. Originally designed by Nate Berkus, the space was groundbreaking at the time with a rock-infused feel. Berkus’ use of exposed brick, timbers and steel nodded to the property’s origins as a 1920’s lamp factory turned sound studio.
For the 2015 update, Rockit Ranch Productions has tapped internationally renowned New York and Chicago-based interior designer Kara Mann to redesign the interiors of the space both architecturally and aesthetically. Mann, a Chicago native, who The New York Times described as best known for “interiors with a subversive side” has merged her background in fashion, art and design to create distinct interiors with a balance of edgy yet attainable aesthetic. With a focus on creating an enduring design, Mann’s ultrachic aesthetic works perfectly with long-term goals for the space.
In a nod to its authentic rock n’ roll legacy, the space’s redesign will feature a monochromatic palette of smoky blacks and greys, highlighting textures and infusing the space with a heightened sense of drama. Where the original design was gritty, rough and natural, the renovation will reveal a space that is sleek, sexy, modern and well suited to its vibrant location. “The re-launched Rockit Bar & Grill will redefine the category once again and will continue to help drive River North’s ascension to an unparalleled entertainment district in Chicago and beyond,” said Mann.
The menu, like the space, will also undergo an overhaul with a tightly curated selection of Modern American dishes from award-winning Executive Chef / Partner Amanda Downing and Michelin rated Chef Kevin Hickey, Partner and Food & Beverage Director. The beverage program will take center stage in the Dining Room with a focus on interesting cocktails, craft beers and wines that pairs perfectly with Downing and Hickey’s menu. The space will be dominated by a huge 50 foot bar that signals a renewed focus on elevated beverage offerings. A new state-of-the-art draft system with more than 22 handles will give beer enthusiasts a wide selection of local and global craft beers to choose from. A stellar wine and champagne list, along with uncommon bottle service offerings, will round out the beverage menu.
Venue leadership will also get an update with the addition of Michael Taxy, an industry veteran previously with The Drawing Room and Parliament Chicago, who joins the team as General Manager. He will concentrate his considerable experience in elevating the nightlife and cocktail experience that Rockit Bar & Grill has become known for while balancing the new menu developed by Downing and Hickey.
From the modern new design to the high energy music and carefully curated food and beverage, when the new Rockit Bar & Grill debuts in Spring 2015 it is poised to knockout both new and existing patrons.
Stay tuned to Rockit Bar & Grill’s social media channels for updates, sneak peeks and more!