Don’t let the name fool you – Vintage 338 is the new guy on the block. But by the looks of this routinely packed wine bar, I think it’s here to stay.
Nestled into the nightlife of Lincoln Park, Vintage 338 brings some fun to sophistication. Chandeliers sparkle from the ceiling while pastel walls lighten the mood (and let’s not overlook the Cheeky-approved bejeweled bar). Though perfect for a girl’s night out, no one is out of place within the casual-cute walls of Vintage.
Okay, well almost no one. If you don’t have a serious appreciation for European wines, turn back now. The owners of Vintage 338 bring 30+ years of experience to this newly opened gem and if they don’t win you over with the moderately priced tapas plates, their perfectly edited wine list will. Simply put, the folks at Vintage say, “Our goal is to provide you with an affordable wine that exceeds your taste-buds, not your budget.” Cheers to that!
So what exactly can you expect upon your first (but certainly not last) trip to Vintage? First of all, unless you head over early in the night (say, before 9 pm) or on a weekday, you should expect a crowd. Seating is limited at this cozy spot, but it’s worth the wait (or you can always snag a seat at the bar).
And now for the crucial details (and why it’s worth making the trip down Armitage): wines are served by the glass and by the bottle, all for less than $40 per bottle. Enjoy the (finally!) beautiful weather while sipping on the bubbly Spanish Segura Viudas Cava Brut sparking wine or a 2008 Riff Pinot Gringio. If red is your style, your options abound with 14 selections from southern Europe. (I can’t wait to go back and try the 2007 Ogier Cotes du Rhone.)
And if you come hungry, no problem. Vintage’s European-inspired menu compliments the wine selection with options like the “P.L.T.” (proscuitto panini) or the classic Nicoise salad.
But delicious wine and food aside, Vintage 338 is the rare variety of nightspot that effortlessly wins you over with a caliber of casual elegance that’s hard to come by. And if you ask me, Vintage is sure to become a Chicago treasure.
