The history of Bernard’s runs more profound than a fashion-inspired cocktail destination. The name derives from Bernard Heerey, who was born and raised in Chicago and sold the land on which Waldorf Astoria Chicago was built. When he passed, he donated the entire purchase price of twenty-seven million dollars to Chicago-based children’s charities.
Bernard’s is a landmark cocktail lounge built upon precise cocktails that pay tribute to the past through moments grounded in the present. Returning after an extended hiatus, the resurrection of Bernard’s takes root in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast, offering unforgettable experiences guided by knowledgeable staff, refined cocktails that each have a story, and exceptional plates of nosh.
The aesthetic is inspired by the men in Coco Chanel’s life, with an equestrian influence that creates a room that wraps itself around you like a tweed riding jacket worn in the Scottish Highlands. Masculine yet soft, textured and warm, dark but welcoming.
Let’s raise a glass to honor the past, live in the moment, and appreciate what the future brings.
Welcome back to Bernard’s.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago Executive Chef Nicholas Marino oversees all culinary and in-room dining operations for the hotel, bringing two decades of diverse experience in the industry. In addition to the hotel’s operations, Chef Marino is helping to spearhead the evolution of its dining venues as part of the property’s significant renovation in 2022.
Leading the hotel’s dining offerings and kitchen staff in updated and brand-new concepts including Brass Tack, Peacock Lounge, and Bernard’s, Chef Marino brings a spirit of cooking for guests as if they were family to the team. In his role, Chef Marino creates menus that meet and exceed guests’ expectations, ensures the consistent production of high-quality food through all of the hotel’s outlets, and manages all other aspects of the kitchen, all while infusing his acquired knowledge and unique twists inspired by his work around the country.
Originally from New Jersey, Chef Marino trained at the acclaimed Culinary Institute of America, leading him to a long and fruitful career in the kitchen. No stranger to Waldorf Astoria Chicago, Chef Marino has previously held the role of Executive Sous Chef at the property, and most recently as the Executive Chef at the neighboring Omni Chicago Hotel, fostering his love for the city. In between his Chicago tenures, Chef Marino has also held Executive Chef positions at
both the Hilton Des Moines Downtown and Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa in the Western US before returning to the Windy City. Chef Marino is thrilled to make his return to Waldorf Astoria Chicago in his new role as Executive Chef and to bring exciting new experiences to the neighborhood and city as a whole.
We love to take you on a journey. A journey that begins with our location, which is as mysterious as the drink we serve.
We’re located in a place that’s not easily accessible—you’ll have to find us if you can. And when you do, you’ll be rewarded with an experience like no other.
We’re not just a bar; we’re a place where you can come to enjoy your favorite drink in the company of others who share your tastes and interests.
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