5 Reasons Gus' Sip & Dip Was Named Bon Appétit's Best New Bar For 2025

As of December 10, 2025, the buzz around Chicago's River North neighborhood has reached a fever pitch, all thanks to a stylish new tavern that has captured national attention: Gus' Sip & Dip. This establishment, a concept from the powerhouse Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants group, has officially been crowned one of the country’s elite, landing a coveted spot on Bon Appétit's list of Best New Bars in America for 2025.

Gus' Sip & Dip has quickly redefined the classic bar experience, offering a unique blend of high-end mixology and approachable, late-night tavern fare. Its success is rooted in a brilliant, price-conscious beverage program featuring 30 expertly reimagined classic cocktails, all consistently priced at just $12, a rarity in a major city like Chicago.

The Masterminds Behind Chicago's Hottest New Bar

The immediate and widespread acclaim for Gus' Sip & Dip is a direct result of the vision and expertise of its core leadership team, who have executed a sophisticated yet unpretentious concept in the heart of the River North dining and nightlife district.

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• Name: Kevin Beary
• Role: Partner and Beverage Director
• Key Contribution: Beary is the architect of the bar’s signature 30-drink, $12 cocktail program. He is known for focusing on a concise list of spirits to create a price-conscious yet high-quality menu.

• Name: Scott Kitsmiller
• Role: Bar Manager
• Key Contribution: Working alongside Beary, Kitsmiller helps execute the bar's vision of elevated classic cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Name: Bob Broskey
• Role: Chef (Executive or Culinary Director, overseeing the food program)
• Key Contribution: Broskey is responsible for the menu's elevated bar fare, which centers on the popular "Dipped Sandwiches" and late-night eats.

• Owner/Group: Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants (LEYE)
• Concept: Gus' Sip & Dip is the latest neighborhood bar concept from the renowned Chicago-based hospitality group.

Why Gus' Sip & Dip Earned Bon Appétit's Best New Bar Title for 2025

The recognition from Bon Appétit as one of the Best New Bars in America for 2025 is a monumental achievement, solidifying Gus' Sip & Dip's status as a must-visit destination.

1. The Revolutionary $12 Cocktail Program

In a city where craft cocktails often push the $20 mark, Gus' Sip & Dip’s commitment to a flat $12 price point for all 30 of its mixed drinks is a game-changer. This price-conscious strategy was a deliberate move by Kevin Beary to challenge the industry standard and make high-quality mixology accessible. The focus is on a concise back bar and efficient preparation, proving that quality doesn't have to break the bank.

2. The Perfect Blend of Classic and Contemporary

The bar successfully bridges the gap between a classic, inviting tavern and a contemporary, high-end cocktail lounge. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, encouraging walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis, yet the beverage menu is expertly curated and sophisticated.

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3. Elevated Bar Fare and Late-Night Eats

Gus' Sip & Dip isn't just a drinking destination; it’s a complete dining experience. The kitchen, led by Chef Bob Broskey, stays open late, a crucial feature for the River North crowd. The menu goes beyond standard pub grub, offering elevated fare that perfectly complements the drinks. Entities such as the Chilled Seafood Ceviche* and the famous Dipped Sandwiches are menu highlights.

A Deep Dive into the Menu: Dipped Sandwiches and Reimagined Classics

The menu at Gus' Sip & Dip is concise, intentional, and designed to deliver maximum flavor and value. It’s built around two main pillars: the 30 classic cocktails and the signature dipped sandwiches.

The 30 for $12 Cocktail List

The beverage program is an homage to timeless mixed drinks, but with a refined, modern twist. Beverage Director Kevin Beary has taken classics and given them a fresh perspective. The list is diverse, ensuring there is a perfect 'sip' for every palate. One drink that has received specific adoration from critics is The Breakfast Martini, a must-try for first-time visitors.

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Other essential entities on the expansive list include reimagined versions of staples like the Old Fashioned, the Daiquiri, the Negroni, and the Manhattan, all executed with precision and high-quality ingredients. The consistent $12 price point encourages patrons to explore the full breadth of the menu without financial hesitation.

The Art of the Dipped Sandwich

The "Dip" in Gus' Sip & Dip refers to the French Dip-style sandwiches that anchor the food menu. These savory, comforting sandwiches are the perfect pairing for the classic cocktails. The concept is an ingenious way to offer comforting, elevated bar food that is both satisfying and memorable. The menu also features other signature items and a dedicated dessert section, ensuring a complete late-night experience.

The River North Renaissance: A Nod to Chicago’s Past

The location of Gus' Sip & Dip at 51 W. Hubbard Street is steeped in Chicago history, adding a layer of topical authority and sentimental value to the new establishment.

Honoring Gus' Good Food (1906-1966)

The bar is an intentional homage to Gus' Good Food, a beloved eatery that occupied the very same River North address for six decades, from 1906 to 1966. By adopting the "Gus" name, the Lettuce Entertain You team connects their fresh, modern concept to a piece of Chicago's culinary heritage. This historical context provides a deep sense of place, transforming the bar from a mere new opening into a continuation of a neighborhood legacy.

The combination of a nostalgic tavern feel, the high-value cocktail program, and the late-night availability of elevated food has perfectly filled what many considered a void in the River North neighborhood. The bar’s success is a testament to its ability to attract a diverse crowd, from industry veterans seeking a well-made drink to casual guests looking for a plush, yet affordable, night out.

In conclusion, Gus' Sip & Dip is far more than just a new bar; it is a masterclass in modern hospitality. Its 2025 Bon Appétit award is well-deserved, recognizing its innovative $12 cocktail strategy, the quality of its Dipped Sandwiches, and the expert direction of Kevin Beary and Scott Kitsmiller. It stands as a shining example of how to elevate the classic tavern experience while keeping it accessible to everyone.