Bar Bambi

Katie Renshaw, 2019 U.S. Bartender of the Year, opened her debut bar concept, Bar Bambi, in West Town in early 2026. The ethereal space, designed by Gensler, is a whimsical haven where the drinks are as dreamy as the space itself. The Chicago Avenue bar is a clear reflection of Renshaw's inventive style and playful edge.

The vibe: The 50-seat bar, which is anchored by a glass-block bar and a massive, squiggly neon light fixture above, is a dream-like space accented by floating orbs of light, vintage furnishings and cheeky art.

The food: Chef Nicklus Byrns, who spent time at Elske, offers playful takes on elevated bar bites like the popular tempura halibut sandwich, flavorful salmon crudo and crave-worthy chicken nuggets with Alabama white sauce and carrot caramel sauce. 

The drinks: Renshaw's mixology chops shine through on the cocktail menu, which features sips like the sweet Miss Scarlet (gin, Apóls Ease, lavender, cola spices, lemon, tonka bean and Campari-raspberry sorbet), the balanced Nightshirt (St.-Germain, Seedlip Garden, chamomile, lime, Perrier and clarified coconut yogurt, and the mellow Sanzaru (Rey Campeto, Espadin mezcal, bianco vermouth, mango, amazake and lime). 

Time Out tip: Come hungry. While the drinks are the stars of the show here, the food is too good not to try.