Vol. 39 Reviews

Happened to come here after dinner at Steadfast...(which was disappointing given hype). Space is like a library / warm tones lots of leather - in a good way. Bartender was nice enough but when we mentioned dinner was not great she was pretty quick to distance herself saying it was a separate establishment. But quick check on website shows it's part of the hotel / she did recommend Boleo so maybe would give that a try...frankly only came here because it was so close to office...but it was a pleasant find. Good place for date night...

Vol 39 has an excellent cocktail program. Hands down one of the best old fashions I’ve ever had and we loved the presentation. Had a couple small bites there before dinner. Highly recommend the chips and dips and pass on the fondue.

We went here after a show to have the dessert we didn’t have time for earlier. Located on the same floor as the Kimpton Gray front desk, it is very convenient. It is also quiet and attractive. It was after 11, and the choice was not great, but what we had was certainly very good. I also had a single malt, which was reasonably priced, given the location. The young man serving us was knowledgeable and highly competent.

Met a friend here for cocktails... It was my first visit and I was impressed as soon as I stepped inside. I love Kimpton properties so I was not surprised that I immediately liked this one at the Kimpton Gray Hotel. (It is very reminiscent of the Library Bar at the NoMad Hotel in NYC!) Walk up the marble staircase and you are transported to a posh and cozy environment with seating areas to accommodate business or pleasure, groups or couples. They have a book of house cocktails, champs, and wines... many by the glass. The service was prompt and professionally friendly. We were offered food but took a pass... When we arrived, we had the whole room to ourselves; when we left the place was full and energetic. This could easily become a favorite of mine. Enjoy!

I know, it’s sounds crazy and it is totally unexpected seeing as Vol. 39 is in a hotel lobby but it is has some of the best craft cocktail and also one of the most perfectly curated wine lists in the Loop. Also, just ask the staff about the history of the housing and room and you will be in for a histirucal treat.

I am so grateful to the Kimpton Gray staff for offering me two complimentary cocktails here this past weekend! Alexis and Bobby are familiar faces to me because I have been an inner circle member of the Kimptons for such a long time so it's always wonderful to receive extra special treatment and warmth!!! My friend and I enjoyed complimentary cocktails here in this lovely restaurant and we indulged in a cheese plate while sipping our drinks. By the way we both ordered cocktails that were not traditionally listed on their menu offerings but our server was very happy to offer us both respectively our own "signature" drinks of our choosing. My drink was a bit on the sweet side which is heavy half and half cream with a hint of a coffee taste and it was absolutely delicious! The ambiance here is very much like a living room study with ornate law books lined up against the walls, upholstered chairs and seating areas that are cozy and inviting. I am not a heavy drinker but I am very grateful the staff here at the Gray hotel was kind enough to offer me drinks on the house just so I could finally see what Volume 39 has to offer. I will definitely come back here next time I visit. Thank you again for a lovely and welcoming experience!

Recently met a friend for a drink after work. First it has a great atmosphere....intimate but library like as well.... Limited seating so reservations might be a good think. Very interesting cocktail menu and the drinks and wine were excellent that we had. Service was very good.....and though making the drinks was a bit slow it was actually OK....good atmosphere. One thing to note....this is not a cheap drink so plan accordingly!

Very nice bar. The atmosphere and ambiance was absolutely fantastic. Nice interior and design. Even incredibly good drinks. A little on the more expensive side but might be worth trying!

Went in here late night, last minute on a Sunday and it was a tad bit quiet, but what a beautiful venue! Perfect for a cocktail bar. Really good menu of authentic well crafted drinks from sweet to bitter to refreshing, definitely something for everyone. Very friendly stuff, highly recommend it!

I met an ex-coworker here at her rec, and I’m glad I did. Vol 39 is located at the Kimpton Hotel. She ordered a few mezcal concoctions ($19), while I had several Forteleza reposados w/ one block of ice ($18). The drinks from Ruben were excellent. He was using his skills all night bc he was very busy. Regarding the ambiance, you can sit at the bar like us, or there are several tables to sit at and talk. Its very inviting at Vol 39. When you are traveling, go where the locals go. This was def not a tourist spot.

One of the best secrets of Chicago...a true gem!!! Amazing cocktails and an even more developed wine list - the Vidal Blanc is so unique and a great value! Bobby is an amazing bartender and Lauren is a knowledgeable sommelier plus an incredible manager. We will be back for sure!

Saw some good things online. The bar has a cool appeal in the heart of the loop. We had an old fashioned and the Chicago Cocktail. The old fashioned was really good. The Chicago Cocktail was a bit bitter. We had a really different appetizer that we ordered just for that reason - chicken skin chips. They were interesting. Pretty tasty.

Staying at The Gray, we stopped in for a mid-afternoon cocktail on a Friday afternoon at Vol. 39, located right off the lobby. It was busy, but we were seated immediately and the lay-out and ambiance is unique and quite comfortable. Service was very slow and everything seemed to take 15-20 minutes, whether it was ordering, receiving or paying the bill. Martinis were below average; chip and dip was good.

We visited Volume 39 when staying at the Gray. Excellent cocktail list with strong drinks. Cozy and dimly lit space with lots of little alcoves. Service was very good when we were there. Along with drinks they also have little bites. Wish they were open on Sundays!

I cannot say enough about the phenomenal staff, impeccable service, delightful delicacies, and amazing ambiance at Volume 39! My husband and I visited mere days after they first opened last year to satisfy our curiosity and our appetite for champagne and caviar! From the moment we eased ourselves into the tufted leather couch that was surrounded by leather bound law books, Lauren, the manager and sommelier, and Bobby our server, made us feel at home and guided us through the extensive cocktail and wine list and charcuterie options. After noshing on caviar and ice cold Veuve Clicquot, Bobby escorted us upstairs to the Gray's open-roof restaurant Boleo for dinner, where beverage manager Jess continued to wow us. Subsequent visits have given us the pleasure of becoming acquainted with Dan, Diana, Sara and hotel Concierge, Bobby Gonzalez, all of whom are warm and friendly and will make it their priority to ensure that you enjoy your visit!

Have been back here a couple of times recently. It's located in the Loop's Kimpton Hotel, on the second floor, and is a very sophisticated space. Love the vibe. The cocktail menu is extensive and interesting. On one recent visit, the bar was busy and it was taking a long time for our cocktails to be made. The server recognized this and brought us a couple of glasses of sparkling wine to apologize for the wait and to allow us to enjoy while waiting. That kind of gesture goes such a long way in showing you care for your guests--the kind of thing that brings you back! On another recent visit, we were part of a larger party; the bar handled the large party really well and everyone was impressed with their drinks and the space. A little gem in the Loop, fantastic for pre- and post-theater/symphony drinks.

great place to get a before dinner drink. Prices are reasonable. The ambiance is cozy The staff is very knowledgeable great variety of drinks and wine. Awesome for a hotel bar

Who in their right mind pays $25 for a glass of wine? Well I did! Food is OK but again overpriced. Although the place got busier it totally lacked atmosphere. Added to which the staff are probably the least hospitable I have come across in Chicago (even challenging the level of tip - who does that?!). This is probably best saved for your pipe and slippers end of your life (if of course you have cash to burn and you make it that far). Much much better places to go in Chicago.

We were guests of the Kimpton Gray hotel and decided to stop down to this beautiful little upscale bar in the hotel lobby. The seating is very intimate and the decor is quite sophisticated. I had a rum drink and my family shared a bottle of wine. That drink was the best I've ever had! The wait staff were very hip and knowledgeable. It's pricey but totally worth it!

Vol. 39 is a great cocktail bar for a nightcap. It's located downtown near many hotels and has a classy vibe. It's set up like a dimly lit library and offers an array of cocktails for every palate. The servers are attentive and even offer you a food menu if you need some fancy snacks to munch on as you sip your cocktail. If cocktails aren't your thing, they sell beer and wine as well.

We went for the caviar and were disappointed, very disappointed. We miss beluga so we wnt here as they offer several types of (other) caviars. The service was very poor. It is served in 1/2 ounce and 1 ounce portions and this stuff is not cheap like an ordinary appetizer. We orderd 2 ounces and when they brought the accoutrements, they served only 5 toast points. We immediately asked for more and the server never came back. She never asked if the caviar was good, if we needed anything else nor if she could bring us more toast points. This may sound frivilous but to caviar eaters, it is important. We had to practically chase her down and tackle her to get her attention and bring us the toast points that we had requestd 20 minutes earlier. It is not like the place was jammed and she was over-worked, I think she just did not care. While we were still eating, she asked if she should bring the bill. We never said we were in a hurry and to bring us the bill promptly. She did not ask if we wanted another round of champagne. Why would we ant the check at this point while we were still eating and drinking — and might have done more if we did not feel pushed/rushed out the door. I did not see her rushing others who were only drinking and not eating. The view, from a window table/seat, is wonderful though. Besides the nice view, the one highlight was the champagne — which the waitress recommended — but I do not remember the name unfortunately. I will consider going again but not any time soon and not with plans to eat as, apparently, the service is better if you only drink here.

Needs a place to just hang out, eat some light fare and have a drink. Vol. 39 checks those boxes. Great atmosphere, nice music, very tasty drinks and nice food. I had the caprese salad, which was very good. I wish it was one slice of an heirloom tomato rather than grape tomatoes but still tasty. The stars of the show are the drinks. They are noted for their old-fashions so I had one of their LaSalle sours. Both were good. Service was great as well. It is pricey though.

If you like bourbon, you will be in heaven as they have some of the finest I have seen and they can create heavenly cocktails from bourbon or any liquor you select. The decor is based on an old law office and so the walls feature actual old law books. The decor is a perfect mix of traditional (leather couches) with modern (unique tables). Lots of glass reflects beautifully in the dark sumptuous atmosphere. The staff are super! Very attentive and friendly. Your glass will always be at least half full.

Vol. 39 has a great atmosphere and a pleasant knowledgeable staff. They pour a solid drink and is a good place to meet people. It is on the pricey side but that is because you are paying for the atmosphere and space (you are not crammed in like some places).The food menu is limited. My one complaint is you are unable to speak to a person prior to arriving at the place. I had a question in reference to a reservation and had to email them.

We’re glad we tried Vol. 39. It’s located on the lobby of a nice hotel. Relaxing ambiance. Customers varied in age. Server warmed up through our stay and was able to make solid recommendations. We tried the Puerto Rico run special and the Doctor’s Orders, which were both tasty and country to other people’s experiences, they were a heavy pour. Doctors Orders is a good/generous size— allow yourself time to enjoy it. You’re right we really enjoyed it and ent are glad that our server recommend it!

Super underwhelming. Went here based on reviews for a nice place ot enjiy a cocktail. reservations are de riguer and we made one for 4:30. Greeted and had a nice table. Looked at the cocktail list and ordered. Drinks delivered. Not a heavy pour for the price. Expected some gratis nibbles, nuts, chips, whatever as we have always gotten this in swank bars in NY and in the humblest places in Italy. How do you not serve a nibble? Inquired and we received some almonds which were great. On receiving the bill noticed a $5.00 charge for nuts. Ar you kidding me? No mention of the charge was made when we asked to have a little nibble. We tipped accordingly as this was entirely the fault of the server. Will not be returning

Vol 39 is the second floor bar in the Kimpton Gray Hotel in the loop. It has the feel of a chic law library., The actual bar is small, with only about 4-5 seats, so most of the seating is more lounge-style with couches and high backed chairs. The staff is terrific, in particular Sarah and Bobby behind the bar and Lauren who is the somm. The food is small plates and they do a caviar service which looked interesting though I didn't partake. They're still working out the menu and I hope they'll add some larger items and maybe something that's a little less fancy for those hotel guests that just want some comfort food without leaving the bar. The drinks are killer. The varied old fashioneds are the thing to check out. I had the brandy and the scotch old fashioned and they blew me away. So while hotel guests are lucky to have this bar, its really Chicago that wins here.

Cool hotel bar, looks like a law library but with modern updates and decor. Great drink list, excellent location. It was very close to Millennium Park.

Very enjoyable experience at this art deco inspired cocktail bar. The “Think Big” cocktail was the best. Highly recommend.

There’s nothing like relaxing with a couple of friends and sharing something unique and wonderful together. Volume 39 engaged us immediately with its ambiance, then continued to engage with a wonderfully fun and energetic mixologist and a memorable signature drink and experience.

Spent a late Friday night here after a huge dinner. Great location, very quiet, allows for conversation amongst friends. Awesome cocktail bar and wine list.

I had an amazing drink here and loved the fun atmosphere. I had the best waitress here (wish I could remember her name) that I had during my entire stay in Chicago. I need to eat here next time.

Family were in-town, and we'd gone to a theatrical performance together and wanted to end our evening with a nightcap. We headed to the Kimpton Gray hotel and Vol. 39, it's cool bar on the second floor. We had a very nice experience. Relatively late on a Saturday night, the bar had a good buzz about it but was not overwhelmingly busy. We were seated and served quickly. This was the perfect environment--busy enough to feel hip, quiet enough to be able to hear each other speak and receive good service. The space is very cool; it has the dark tones of a library but had smart lighting over seating areas that made us still able to see menus and each other. There are very cool furnishings and fixtures. The cocktail menu had a number of appealing options, and the server was very knowledgeable about all of the cocktails and able to describe their flavor profiles. He helped us choose cocktails to our tastes, and they were delicious. Be warned--many of the cocktails are boozy; this place serves a strong, delicious drink! Price point is about what you would expect of craft cocktails in a business district--relatively expensive, but not unexpected. An enjoyable way to end the night; I will not hesitate to return.

If you're staying at the Gray hotel or you're nearby on Monroe between La Salle and Clark, this is a nice, classy place to get your night started. Complimentary champagne at most nights, friendly helpful servers, and really nice selection and ambiance.

This bar is one of my favorites in Chicago. The bartenders are masters of their craft and true mixologists. Their skills rival those in very high end spots in San Francisco - without being rude (as they tend to be in SF). The drinks are amazing and I highly recommend trying one of the specialty drinks. Visit soon - you won't regret it!

We ended up at Vol. 39 this Saturday night. It was wonderful surprise !! Excellent drinks and food !! Wonderful live jazz music on the top of that. Definitely going back.

Wonderful ambience and a large selection of cocktails. The small plates are very good too. It is a cozy but upscale atmosphere with service to match.

A speakeasy feel to this modern library space, the aesthetic and a staff uniform have a vintage feel with a modern twist. Located in the lovely “The Grey” Hotel, this is much more than a hotel bar. Leather chairs and marble tables with communal seating create a relaxed atmosphere. Creative, successful cocktail combinations. You could come back many times and try something new visit. There were small bites available but we did not have any. They sounded good though. We were there on a Tuesday night, not very busy but a nice crowd. The staff was very attentive and knowledgeable.

Of the best bars I've ever been for cocktails. My dry martini was delicious and the atmosphere very pleasant. The bartender a great professional. Highly recommended

We ambled in right after their doors opened. Meredith and Jess were most accommodating as we experimented with a Japanese whiskey flight. Ichiro won by several lengths. Then came Bruichladdich. A new winner. Special kudos to Meredith for engaging conversation and spirit enlightenment. Vol. 39 is more than a bar, but we never got off the stools.

Absolutely recommend this cocktail bar. We had beautiful evenings here while we were in Chicago. Great cocktails and great atmosphere, the one night there was a pianist. Great service, well done!

First night better than second night oddly. Got in late and was delighted to have a unique mixed runs, bitters, citrus drink, a nice generous bowl of mixed nuts including spiced cashews and brazils, plus red and gold beet tartar with fennel. Truly inspired. Sat on a comfortable communal couch area and was very comfortable. Second night waiter suggested the Hunters Meatballs (nice varied meat ingredients) and the chips (potato). The Lockdown drink including sherry and Remy was indeed a fine drink. But the meatballs really did not work for me, and the chips were downright soggy and chewy throughout - so I returned the chips and got the beet tartar again (super!). I really really do like the atmosphere and staff, the inventive drinks. But maybe somewhat less dense sauce on the meatballs and good quality control on the chips. Please keep at it - this is good quality in a really nice hotel.

Terrible service. Charcuterie tray that was so basic. Uninspiring. I will not return. Had a non-drinker and zero mocktail offerings. There are much better places to go.