Of all the new spots in Wrigleyville, the newest is Stolen Saddle. The country-themed concept on Clark St. a block south of Wrigley Field had its grand opening last week, coinciding neatly with the Chicago Cubs’ home opener.
Step inside the three-level, 16,000-square-foot restaurant and you may think you’re on Nashville’s famed Lower Broadway instead of Chicago. Barstools made from leather saddles line the bar, and guitars and posters of classic Westerns adorn the wood-paneled walls. Check the ceiling and you’ll see sleek neon lights, mirror balls and antler chandeliers. Towards the back is a whiskey bar with more than 100 selections, and it’s all while decades worth of country hits play overhead.
Outside is a 250-seat patio with a retractable tent for all-weather use, complete with seven rentable cabanas, each with its own TV and hand-painted tables. Combined with a water feature, a holdover from the previous incarnation, the patio promises Insta-worthy experiences.
A different vibe is on the second floor, where you’ll find a mechanical bull and electronic darts on opposite corners. But the centerpiece is a stage and dance floor for live country bands every Friday and Saturday night starting at 10 p.m., and solo and duo acts after Cubs games. Stop by on select Saturdays for line dancing, with free instruction.
The third floor provides yet another experience, an open-air rooftop with bags and pop-a-shot basketball. It’s rentable for private events and seating options can be customized.
As for the food, think of it as traditional bar food with a bit of Tex-Mex flair. So you can get sliders, wings and tavern-style pizza, but also fajitas, burritos and queso fundido. However, the specialty is the house-smoked brisket, which is available in sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas and nachos.
However, it wouldn’t be a Wrigleyville establishment without plenty of options at the bar. In addition to the whiskeys, there are six margaritas, four martinis, five frozen drinks and 13 craft cocktails. The beer selection consists of 16 drafts, including a signature American lager made by Chicago-based Spiteful Brewing, and roughly two dozen bottles and cans. Those wishing to abstain can choose from a variety of mocktails and alcohol-free beer.
Stolen Saddle accept reservations, except on days when there is a Cubs game or a concert at Wrigley Field.
