Chicago’s vibrant dining scene has gained a nostalgic yet modern addition with the opening of Charlie Martin’s in the River North area. This new establishment brings a chic twist to the classic Hollywood supper club tradition, creating a blend of vintage charm and contemporary flair.
A Modern Take on the Classic Supper Club Located at 736 N. Clark St, Charlie Martin’s, led by partners Glenn Deutsch and Eric Fosse, offers an intimate and sophisticated dining experience. With its inspiration rooted in 1950s and 60s cocktail bars, the supper club features low lighting, dark bronze walls flecked with gold, and oxblood red leather booths that invite guests to step back in time. The venue has 60 seats and an additional 24 around the central bar, perfect for casual yet elegant meals.
Eric Fosse describes Charlie Martin’s as “a modern version of a supper club,” reflecting a jazzy vibe that fits Chicago’s lively dining culture. The venue holds historical significance as it was once a jazz club more than 20 years ago, further emphasizing its timeless appeal.
Elevated Cuisine by Executive Chef Matt Williams Executive Chef Matt Williams, known for his work with top Chicago establishments like Hogsalt Hospitality, leads the culinary program. The menu blends classic supper club dishes with modern elements. Diners can indulge in options like Maine lobster, prime steak tartare, and whole roasted Dover sole with brown butter and capers. The raw bar and signature dishes, including Spanish octopus and jumbo lump crab cake, pay homage to both traditional and contemporary dining.
“Our goal is to create a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and current,” says Chef Williams. His focus on fresh ingredients and elevated flavors makes every dish a celebration of Chicago’s evolving culinary scene.
A Cocktail Program That Nods to the Classics The drink menu, curated by Alise Hulick, complements the sophisticated fare with a mix of creative and classic cocktails. The bar serves options like Charlie’s Martini, combining Sipsmith Gin and Lillet Blanc, and The Scoundrel, a mezcal-based cocktail with a bold kick of carrot and ginger. A well-curated wine list featuring selections from small purveyors adds another layer of indulgence.
Charlie Martin’s is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Combining a historical setting with contemporary dining and an emphasis on intimate service, it’s a venue designed to create lasting memories. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner or an evening of jazz-infused ambiance, Charlie Martin’s promises a unique escape in the heart of Chicago.
Source: This article is based on information from Chicago Food Magazine, What Now Chicago, and WGN Radio.
Key Highlights
- Vintage-Inspired Setting: Charlie Martin’s draws on the aesthetics of 1950s and 60s supper clubs with a modern twist.
- Diverse Menu: Led by Executive Chef Matt Williams, the menu features classic dishes reimagined for today’s palates, including seafood and prime meats.
- Cocktail Mastery: The bar serves a mix of creative and classic cocktails, alongside a global wine selection.
- Intimate Dining: With just 60 seats and an additional 24 at the bar, Charlie Martin’s offers an exclusive and cozy dining atmosphere.
