The Alley Cat is all set to open on May 11 in Ukrainian Village. Located at 2013 W. Division St., this bar is a new venture from the team behind the popular Paulie Gee’s pizza spots in Chicago. Owners Derrick Tung, William Ravert, and Tony Dezutter have reshaped an old storefront, creating a cozy yet stylish space that’s a perfect spot for locals to unwind.
This bar features a long wooden bar, custom shelving, and a private back room for gatherings. A beautiful chandelier, which previously decorated the nearby Chopin Theater, adds charm to the atmosphere. The goal of the Alley Cat is straightforward: to provide a welcoming space where anyone can enjoy quality drinks at reasonable prices.
“We wanted a hangout that felt like home,” Dezutter shared. “Once we found the right space, our vision really took off.”
The drink menu will highlight classic cocktails and inventive twists. Think Negronis, margaritas, and even a fun rum punch inspired by the HBO show *Heated Rivalry*. Most cocktails will come on draft, making it easier to keep costs low. “This means we can offer great drinks without breaking your budget,” Ravert explained.
Prices start at just $7 for combo drinks featuring Miller High Life—a nod to accessible pricing. They’ll also have 16 wine options available both by glass and bottle, plus non-alcoholic drinks and THC-infused cocktails.
A unique offering is the “Girl Dinner Gibson,” a gin martini served with house-pickled veggies, cheese, and bread. On the food side, they’ll have a limited selection, including deep-fried potato wedges, soy garlic pork skewers, and fish sticks with remoulade sauce. The focus is clear: good drinks first, with tasty snacks to complement them.
In a recent survey, 75% of bar-goers expressed a desire for more affordable cocktail options in their neighborhoods. The Alley Cat’s approach seems spot-on. “I want this place to be a bar people can visit every week,” Ravert said. “That means good quality at fair prices.”
Though the Alley Cat has a narrow setup, it surprisingly accommodates about 120 patrons across its three areas. The team also plans to host pop-up events with various chefs in the future, further community engagement.
The bar will operate from 5 p.m. to midnight on Sunday through Thursday, extending to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s shaping up to be a vibrant addition to the local scene.
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Bars,Business,Featured
