Forty years in the making, Heisler Hospitality's latest tavern reclamation project is almost here. Queen Mary Tavern turns a long-shuttered Chicago neighborhood bar on Division Street with a fascinating backstory into what could be another Heisler hotspot.
Inside, the feel is of a historic Chicago tavern that adds some of designer Kevin Heisner's signature design touches. The 1,100 square-foot, 40-seat shotgun space is lined with tavern's original Brunswick bar on one side, tall wooden booths with red cushions on the other, and a few high-tops with stools. Patrons of Sportsman's Club—perhaps Heisler's signature tavern reclamation—will recognize the chess and checkers boards built into the tabletops in the booths that are separated by high wood-panelled partitions.
As a refresh, the concept revolves around what the British Royal Navy drank around the turn of the century. Can you imagine yourself settling into one of these booths with a gin martini, grog or black and tan in hand while you engage in a game of chess? You'll be able to do just that next week.
