Julio and Andy here again, and it's the most wonderful time of the year... can you believe the holiday season is already in high gear? We've got bottles full of holiday spirit, and want to invite you to join us in the festivities. Whether you're headed down to the Magnificent Mile to see the lights and buy some gifts, or strolling through the Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza, be sure to stop in to Encore to see what's jingling.

Read on to find out about our New Year's Eve party, booking your holiday party, and a couple of delicious holiday drink recipes.

We've got some new stuff behind the bar, next time you're in we suggest you ask your bartender about our new tequilas from Riazul, and while it lasts you can enjoy a pint of Great Lakes Christmas Ale.

Casually cool lunch club by day, luxe downtown lounge by night, Encore Lunch Club and Liquid Lounge is defined by its contrasts.  An easy walk from the galaxy of theatres, shopping and attractions, we’re the perfect place for visitors to grab a hand-crafted cocktail or a mouthwatering carvery sandwich along with a generous helping of genuine Chicago.  But then we’re also a favorite weekday lunch spot for Loop locals.  We’re at once classic, with cocktails and service that recall more mannered times, and trend-setting, with contemporary décor and whimsically themed booths.  And although we’re quite literally in the middle of everything that is downtown Chicago, the moment you step through our doors, you enter a different space – stylish but authentic, sophisticated but relaxed, fast-paced but intimate.

Savory, hand-carved meats stacked generously on distinctive, fresh-baked breads.  Delicious and original low-carb wraps. Salads from classic Caesars and Cobbs to creations like grilled tuna Mediterranean with organic spinach in pomegranate vinaigrette.  All served up quick enough you’ll have to order dessert – crème brulee with Tahitian vanilla bean? – to fill the rest of your lunch hour.  Regulars working in the downtown Loop love getting every 10th lunch free (ask your server for details), but we’re an easy walk from Grant Park, Navy Pier and the State Street shops, so visitors mix easily with locals in our delightfully eclectic space.

Lunch Menu

When evening falls, Encore transforms itself from bustling lunch club to sophisticated lounge.  Stop in before or after a show (or both) for one of our Craft Beers on Draft, a Midnight in Chicago or one of our sixteen signature martinis.  Grab a spot in the gravitational center of the action at our raised spiral bar, or sink into the seclusion of a back booth – each with its own style and mood.  Our wide-ranking menu of delectable cocktail cuisine (Petite Butter burgers with American cheese and pickles on toasted buns with fries, habañero-orange marinated duck quesadillas…) satisfy late-night cravings, and Encore’s own Liquid Therapy creations like the Citrus & Elderflowers (Patron Silver, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon and lime juices, agave nectar and a splash of cranberry juice) get you where you want to be.

Evening Menu & Liquid Therapy

Next door to the award-winning 312 Chicago restaurant and historic Cadillac Palace Theatre, across the street from City Hall and around the corner from the Illinois State Building, Encore lies smack in the middle of the downtown Loop – at the very heart of Chicago’s theatre, shopping and financial districts.  You’ll find no less than half-a-dozen A-List theatres in a five-block radius.  We’re also an easy walk from State Street’s shopping and a quick cab ride from the Magnificent Mile and cultural landmarks like the Chicago Symphony, the Art Institute and Grant Park.  The stunningly renovated Hotel Allegro next door offers valet parking and the Wells and Washington Self Park is just a half-block away.

Our striking, contemporary space, called “one of the coolest bars in the world” by Condé Nast, lends its verve and energy to private and semi-private parties for 20 to 120 guests. In addition to our hearty hand-carved sandwiches, tempting finger-foods and luscious libations, we can tailor menus to your taste and we'll arrange for flowers, photographers, A/V and whatever else you need. Ask Special Events Director Kristen Anderson how Encore can add a splash of luxe to your next party, reception or meeting. Call her directly at 312.325.7143 or e-mail at kristen.anderson@kimptonhotels.com.

Encore’s 2011 New Years Eve “No Reservations” Soiree

Looking for someplace to ring in the New Year?  Sip on in for a leisurely, fun-filled night of music and drinks at Encore!  We’ll have a DJ to get you moving, great drink specials, a complimentary champagne toast, and best of all, no cover!  New Years Eve can be so high-pressure, but we’re welcoming in 2012 by taking it nice and easy.

Over the River

Mix the following ingredients in a coffee cup or thermos:

6 ounces of Coffee

2 ounces Dooley’s Toffee Liqueur

1 ½ ounces Frangelico

Add whipped cream on top and you’re good to go! 

Through the Woods 

Start with 1 bottle Old Overholt Rye Whiskey. Infuse with 1 ounce of cloves, 6 cinnamon sticks, 3 Granny Smith Apples (cored and quartered), and the peel from one orange.  Allow infusion to sit covered and refrigerated for 3-4 days, stirring once daily.  Strain the whiskey back into the bottle.  If you’re really feeling adventurous, juice the whiskey soaked apple slices and add some to the cider.

To make the cocktail, combine 2 ounces of Whiskey with 1 ounce Apricot Brandy and 6 ounces of Hot Apple Cider.  Garnish with a cinnamon stick.