Gus’ Sip & Dip sits at 51 West Hubbard Street in River North, on the site of Gus’ Good Food, a Chicago institution that operated from 1906 to 1966. The name and the spirit of that original tavern inform everything about the bar – the neighbourhood pricing, the focus on classics done properly rather than cocktails designed to impress. Custom woodwork throughout was made by local artisans, original brick was preserved during the buildout, and the ceiling was lowered to improve acoustics and intimacy. Tables were built around existing columns to create natural corners, and seating is arranged to limit standing room and prevent overcrowding. Artwork includes SNL cue cards and pieces inspired by The Blues Brothers, reflecting a specific era of Chicago cultural life.

The bar is U-shaped with no traditional back bar, bottles stored in a well in front of the bartender to keep sightlines clear and the space unobstructed. Five freezers keep all glassware chilled, integrated warming drawers handle specific vessels, and a dedicated back-of-house service bar allows bartenders to remain focused on guests at the counter. Water is filtered through a three-stage activated carbon system, flash-chilled to 38°F, and served in a frozen glass with a chilled carafe for refills. All juices, syrups, and cordials are made in-house, with fresh citrus pressed daily using a cold process to preserve flavour. Back of house, a rotary evaporator and liquid nitrogen support the wider production programme. Organic evaporated cane sugar is used for simple syrups, berries are organic wherever possible, and olives are imported from Spain. During the Midwest growing season, produce is sourced from local farms across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

The menu runs to 30 classic cocktails, organised by base spirit from lightest to fullest body. One cocktail is retired every New Year’s Eve – the bar’s anniversary – and replaced with a single new classic. Five drinks on the menu can be made without alcohol, marked clearly for ease of navigation. Beer and wine follow the same philosophy as the spirits: one light beer, one dark, one white wine, one red, a cider, and a single Champagne.

Music is curated exclusively from Chicago artists, selected to maintain a consistent BPM throughout service. The bar hosted the Chicago Cocktail Classic, bringing together bars from around the world and giving the team direct exposure to international industry talent. Guests who work through all 30 cocktails receive a coin redeemable for a complimentary appetiser. At the end of each shift, security staff walk team members to their cars, the train, or their ride-share.

The bathrooms carry the same personality as the main room – bold pink and blue tilework, original vintage sinks, a pink phone, and a bubblegum-scented candle.