Baptiste & Bottle - Chicago
Perched high above the Magnificent Mile shopping district, Baptiste & Bottle is situated on the 20th floor of luxury hotel property Conrad Chicago. It's the second restaurant by famed chef Richard Sandoval, who is also behind Latinicity in the Loop.
The whiskey-focused Baptiste & Bottle is spirit focused without beating diners over the head with the concept. The room is dark and sexy, with the lounge seamlessly merging into the dining room without one overpowering the other.
Guests may choose from contemporary American small and large plates, with the intent to share. Think market fish of crudo topped with charred scallions, roasted Peking duck and prime New York strip that's been seared to perfection. The menu is seasonal, so vegetables like heirloom carrots and spaghetti squash are only available for a short time.
Baptiste & Bottle's elaborate bar program can easily stand on its own. The whiskey program covers all the basics, plus offerings of cellar selections of single-malt scotch, rye, bourbon and Japanese whisky. There are also classic and specialty cocktails.