Broken Shaker Chicago, located in the lobby of Freehand Chicago, has relaunched under the operation of Authentic Hospitality with a refreshed design and updated menu.

The reconfigured bar space reflects the wider Broken Shaker brand while incorporating elements specific to its Chicago location. The cocktail program remains central and is now complemented by additional globally influenced food offerings.

This project marks Authentic Hospitality’s first in Chicago. Led by partners Matt Kliegman, Carlos Quirarte and Matthew Charles, the group has been engaged to oversee the Broken Shaker brand across the United States and has relaunched venues in New York, Miami and Los Angeles. Their work with Broken Shaker follows previous collaborations with Freehand’s hospitality portfolio in New York, including Smile to Go, Bar Calico and Georgia Room.

The redesign of the Chicago site was led by interior designer Melissa Bowers, who has also worked on other Broken Shaker properties. The front bar now incorporates garden-inspired elements with yellow velvets, sika stools, vintage punch bowls and lush greenery, while the back bar shifts into a speakeasy style, using darker tones, vintage ceramics, animal sculptures and black-and-white Bob Marley photography.

Photography: © Jeremy Yapp

The beverage program, developed with Authentic Hospitality’s head bartender Tim Sweeney, introduces new cocktails such as Gracing the Lilly, combining Rabbit Hole Heigold bourbon, Aperol, mango and cinnamon syrup, and Up On The Roof, featuring Su Casa mezcal, Chambord, watermelon, lime, basil and a fire tincture. A selection of non-alcoholic options has also been added.

Food items now include shrimp ceviche topped with with passion fruit, avocado, jalapeños, red onion, cilantro, and green plantains; mushroom tacos made with two open face blue cord tortillas, avocado salsa verde and pickled red onion; and a version of the Chicago-style hot dog.

Broken Shaker opened in Miami in 2012 and has since expanded to several U.S. cities. The Chicago location will continue to run a program of DJ sets, collaborations with local bars and live music events.

“We’re reigniting the energy of Broken Shaker Chicago while still maintaining what makes the concept so beloved,” says Matt Charles, Authentic Hospitality Partner. “The refreshed Broken Shaker experience blends inventive bites and libations with unforgettable moments, forged through close collaborations with local artists, bartenders and musicians who enrich guests’ connection to the city.”

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Main Image: © Jack Li