CheekyChicago

Despite Bernard’s in-hotel residence, this is definitely a spot for the locals – the Michigan Avenue shoppers, the businessmen, the Gold Coast inhabitants, the 5 o’clock sippers, the you-name-it Chicagoan.

Reminiscent of the Bar at the Peninsula with its chocolate brown color scheme and masculine, manly, leather seat-y vibe, this is a joyful little spot. And I do mean little. The entire room seats about 34 people. I wouldn’t be surprised if all 34 were Ralph Lauren models. It does have a very Polo-ish feel.

Although not as expensive as a couture Ralph Lauren LBD, the drinks do not come cheap. All cocktails are $14; wines by the glass can reach $24; and craft beers top out at $22. But you get what you pay for: fab.u.lous-tasting classic cocktails (a la Manhattans, sidecars, and Negronis, my personal favorite) and service with a smile.

I love Bernard’s. I’m going to use it for date night, I’m going to bring out-of-town guests in for a classy good time, and I’m going to take mid-shopping-on-Michigan-Avenue cocktail breaks. It’s cheaper and more intoxicating than buying a new RL outfit from Barneys down the street.