Award-Winning Bartender Katie Renshaw to Debut Bar Bambi in West Town This February

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/West Town · February 3, 2026

Veteran bartender Katie Renshaw is bringing a new cocktail destination to West Town with Bar Bambi, slated to open in February 2026. Located at 1703 W. Chicago Avenue in the former Empanada Mama space, the bar will offer a modern and sometimes experimental twist on classic drinks.

The contemporary cocktail bar will blend innovative mixology with a whimsical atmosphere, featuring creative reinterpretations of classic drinks - such as lengthened martinis reimagined as sparkling highballs and old fashioneds transformed into clarified whiskey sours. Drawing on her experience at top Chicago establishments including The Aviary and Moneygun, Renshaw will showcase techniques like fermentation, clarification, and forced carbonation. The menu will also include spirit-free options, champagne, natural wines, and high-end bar snacks in a striking interior designed by Gensler.

"Bar Bambi's space is meant to feel somewhat magical, like you're in that special place between day and night, hard and soft, reflection and play," says Renshaw. "I want it to feel comfortable but a bit surreal, like you've stepped into a dream that still somehow feels at home in the big city of Chicago." West Town residents can follow Bar Bambi on Instagram for updates as the opening approaches.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/10/27/bar-bambi-cocktail-spot-from-veteran-chicago-bartender-to-open-in-west-town/
2. https://www.modernluxury.com/most-anticipated-chicago-restaurant-openings/
3. https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2025/10/katie-renshaw-to-open-bar-bambi-in-chicago/
4. https://www.timeout.com/chicago/news/a-chicago-cocktail-veteran-is-opening-her-ethereal-debut-bar-in-west-town-103025