Hubbard Inn Reopens October 25

A fixture on Hubbard Street for almost a decade, Hubbard Inn (110 W. Hubbard St.) will reopen October 25, 2019 after months of renovations bringing a new concept to River North. While still incorporating elements from the original Hubbard Inn, guests will enjoy an evolving cocktail experience and artistic presentations of worldly-influenced American fare from Executive Chef Eric Babalu (Punch Bowl, City Works) as they move throughout the establishment.

"Hubbard Street is an iconic street in River North, and the building at 110 W Hubbard has been a dynamic staple of hospitality, unique across the city as a three-floor concept. The renovations have been considerable as we aim to highlight Chicago's award-winning food scene complementary to an elevated cocktail program. While the spirit of Hubbard Inn shall remain in both name and texture, the grand reopening of Hubbard Inn will present a new and fresh direction in River North hospitality focusing on a worldly inspired menu presented in shareable fashion. We're thrilled to have this opportunity to establish Hubbard Inn as a continued landmark in the neighborhood that's always embraced us," said Carmen Rossi, founder of 8 Hospitality.

The first floor will be the most reminiscent of the original Hubbard Inn, though after a complete revamp, the bright, inviting and versatile space will be anchored by a center island bar surrounded by comfortable and relaxed booth seating. The modern yet rustic setting will feature a mix of cream and exposed brick walls that are original to the building. Open for dinner seven days a week, the menu will feature shareable American fare with a worldly twist and a focus on classic and seasonal craft cocktails. Chef Babalu's menu approach will be elegant in flavor and playful in presentation with items like butter poached Maine lobster cake served in its own claw, oversized semolina and braised short rib ravioli, and veal meatballs topped with a parmesan tuile that is shattered tableside.

A throwback to the original concept, Hubbard Inn's Saturday and Sunday brunch will make a comeback as well as their happy hour raw bar, though with a slight twist as Chef Babula introduces Personalized Raw Bars featuring the guest's choice of oysters, crab legs, shrimp and more served in a custom wood crate over glowing ice.

As guests ascend the staircase to the second floor, they will walk through an entrance leading them to "Blue Violet at Hubbard Inn", a bar and lounge named after the Illinois state flower. Bringing nature to the heart of Chicago, "Blue Violet at Hubbard Inn" will be a lush and bright secret oasis complete with a wishing well, and an Instagram-worthy space with a private club feel.

Surrounded by flowers, foliage and dramatic lighting, patrons will relax in swing chairs by windows overlooking Hubbard Street, or mingle among a mix of lounge seating and high-top tables. Ideal for groups or a romantic date night, the mixology driven menu will feature large format craft cocktails served in unique vessels paired with desserts. Guests can expect to see CBD infused cocktails, floral ice cubes, playful and inventive garnishes and more.

The third floor at Hubbard Inn will be home to a new event space with a theatre-inspired throwback feel that will be decorated in black and white with gold trim and dramatic rich velvet colored curtains. While enjoying personalized service, guests will be treated to front row action of stylized live performances including rotating acts curated by the Hubbard Inn team.

For any event, over a dozen private and semi-private event spaces will be available throughout Hubbard Inn. The venue offers three floors of unique event space for casual receptions to formal dining for 10 to 600 guests. Customizable event packages include cocktail receptions, dinner stations, seated dinners, valet parking, beverage packages, and bottle service.