Bar of the month

Matisse
674 W. Diversey

The Basics
Where you’ll find it: 674 W. Diversey, between Clark and Halsted. (773) 528-6670. www.matissetavernchicago.com

When it’s open: Monday-Thursday: 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday: 1 p.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-3 a.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Peak time: Wednesdays (half-price wine) and Thursdays (half-price drinks) often draw a good crowd, and Friday and Saturday nights can get packed around 9 or 10 p.m. If you’re looking for outdoor seating in the summer, get there early.

What you’ve heard: One of the best outdoor patios to people-watch when the warm weather hits. ... A relaxed lounge that brings some class to the Lakeview and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. ... If you’re hunting for martinis, wine and good food at reasonable prices, this should be one of your favorites. ... A warm and cozy spot.

Visual Aids
First impressions: With red tones, exposed brick, a fireplace in the middle of the room and plenty of dark wood and candles, there’s no denying the garden-level Matisse definitely has a cozy, inviting feel to it. ... This is a long and narrow establishment, but there is adequate room between the lengthy bar and tables to easily make your way through, unlike a lot of other Chicago spots. ... A large bay window overlooks the outdoor patio, and while three flat screens may have the game on, they are anything but overwhelming. ... Paintings from local artists adorn the walls along with small light fixtures. ... Plenty of tables of different heights are available, and velvet-covered booths and large mirrors are a nice touch at the end of the room.

The atmosphere: The atmosphere at Matisse has been known to change by the day and by the hour. A relaxing Wednesday evening of sipping wine, chatting with friends and listening to jazz can vary greatly from a significantly more lively Friday night filled with ’80s, hip hop or house music. “We’re definitely not stuck or set in any one way,” said Erick, one of the managers. “And that’s part of the fun.” Consider it a trendy tavern void of the just-out-of-college crowd.

What you’ll tell your friends: “Trust me when I say this is the kind of place you keep coming back to. Between the specials, the service and the fact it’s the perfect place to catch up with friends, I’m officially hooked.”
— Mary Anne

‘‘I’ve been on a few dates here, and it’s always an ideal place before or after a movie around the corner. Winter or summer, it’s good no matter what time of year. If you get a table outside at night in July, you’re golden.’’
— Christine

The Experience
At your service: They pride themselves on their service at Matisse, whether it’s from bartenders, waitresses or managers. “One thing is that all the bartenders and waitresses are different personalities, which makes it especially fun,” said Megan, a bartender. “We all bring something a little different to make it so comfortable to hang out here.” One customer named David couldn’t agree more: “They make it pretty easy to become a regular here,” he said.

Get your drink on: Matisse offers 25 varieties of beer in the bottle form, with favorites like Stella, Sierra Nevada, Blue Moon and Newcastle. They even have a “Guinness surger,” which sends vibrations through your pint to properly allow it to settle. Matisse is well-known for its specialty martinis, tasty red and white sangria and extensive wine collection, which rotates on a regular basis and includes options from Australia, France and California.

Menu variety: This is not your typical bar fare, as the menu looks more like that of a full-fledged restaurant. For instance, they offer appetizers such as grilled bruschetta, quesadillas, hummus platters and skewers loaded with shrimp, pineapple and andouille sausage. Add to the mix six types of salads, mouth-watering entrees like the slow-roasted salmon or bacon-wrapped filet mignon, burgers galore, a host of sandwiches (buffalo chicken, pulled pork, turkey BLT, etc.), paninis and wraps (Greek Town or chicken caesar anyone?) and desserts such as the chocolate obsession cake or apple crisp to tempt your sweet tooth.

Daily specials: Monday: $2 burger and fries, $3 beer of the month (currently Sam Adams Winter Lager). Tuesday: $2 sangria, $6 taco plate. Wednesday: Half-price wine in the glass or bottle, $3 chocolate martinis. Thursday: Half-price all drinks. Friday: $5 martinis. Saturday: $4 Skyy vodka drinks. Saturday and Sunday brunch: $3 bloody marys, $3 bellinis, $5 mojitos (seasonal).

Who you can expect to see there: Matisse draws a diverse crowd from all parts of Chicago, usually in the 25-to-35-year old range, but ages can wander both ways. They have their share of devoted regulars from the neighborhood. ... It’s considered a good date spot and a good choice for a girls’ night out with the wine and martini specials and cozy vibe. ... A reliable dinner crowd makes its way here, especially with the summer patio available.

It’s a good spot to … “get in on some of the best daily specials anywhere. ... take a break from the noisy sports bars in Wrigleyville or snobby lounges elsewhere and enjoy a friendly bar that blends a lot of the best qualities you look for. ... host an affordable private party in a comfortable setting where your guests aren’t spread out all over the place. ... find something you like on an extensive menu. ... have a drink or a meal outside on a great patio when it’s warm. ... enjoy a date during the week or a good night out with friends on the weekend.”

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