Service Theory Hospitality GroupHospitality Group
Understudy
All Concepts

Hidden Cocktail Room

Understudy

Understudy

Status — In DevelopmentCity — Chicago

The Concept

The Descent

Understudy is The Montclair's hidden second act, tucked one level below the restaurant. Where The Montclair is bold and social, Understudy is more intimate, moody, and cinematic, a hidden cocktail room built around martini culture, classic cocktails, and late night lounge energy. The name comes from the relationship between the lead and the brilliant supporting character behind the scenes. It shares the same luxury DNA as the restaurant above, but with darker lighting, closer tables, and the kind of seductive, slow burn room guests want to stay in longer than they planned.

Inside the Concept

The Lounge
The Room
Late Night

The Kitchen

Culinary Direction

Luxurious late night bites

Refined share plates

Rich textures, bold flavors

Chef driven bar snacks

The Bar

Cocktail Program

Martini culture and classic cocktails

Premium spirits and rare bottles

Theatrical, sensory presentation

Darker, moodier profiles

Seasonal creative rotations

Coming Soon

Be the first to know when Understudy opens its doors.