Hawksmoor stirs up River North with Beef & Liberty’s British cocktail den

Hawksmoor Chicago is set to debut its much-anticipated Beef & Liberty Bar on Friday, September 19, offering a fresh cocktail destination inspired by the vibrant cocktail renaissance of East London in the 1990s and early 2000s, according to the announcement. Nestled on the second floor of its River North location, this new bar promises to expand Hawksmoor's already celebrated drink offerings with a distinctive London flair.

Following its 2024 opening, Hawksmoor Chicago has fostered collaborations with top-tier bars across the globe, the press release states. The introduction of Beef & Liberty Bar takes inspiration from this legacy while drawing heavily on London's iconic cocktail era. 

"This menu takes its cue from the cocktail renaissance that swept through London in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s," explained Bar Director Liam Davy in the restaurant’s announcement. “It was glamorous, but with real London swagger. Rockstars, supermodels, gangsters and geezers, side-by-side in dark Soho basements sipping new drinks, many of which have become modern classics. For decades before then, cocktail culture in the UK had been largely dormant. Martinis were warm, garnishes were sad, and no one expected much when they ordered a mixed drink. But a few bars, and a few very determined bartenders, changed all that.”

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The bar's offerings capture this vibrant period with drinks that blend glamor and quintessential London boldness. The drink menu includes signature Hawksmoor items like the Sub-Zero Martinis, new Duke’s Martinis, and classic choices such as the East 8 Hold Up. Additionally, beloved creations like the ‘Ello Treacle and the Breakfast Martini grace the lineup. For martini enthusiasts, Beef & Liberty Bar offers its debut of Duke’s Martinis served at a crisp -2°F, the announcement states.

British flair and atmosphere

The ambiance of Beef & Liberty Bar is designed to reflect a traditional London cocktail den, complete with original timber joists, vintage lighting, and plush seating. This moody setting complements the bar's fresh menu, featuring British staples such as Sausage Rolls, Scotch Eggs, and Skewered Chateaubriand bites.

Beef & Liberty Bar inherits Hawksmoor's commitment to quality and collaboration, with international bar takeovers planned for 2026, the announcement states, further cementing its reputation as a cornerstone of cocktail culture in Chicago. Open from Tuesday to Saturday starting at 5 p.m., the bar invites guests to unwind with expertly crafted drinks and British-inspired snacks. For more details, visit Hawksmoor's website.