Our Story

An Exotic Neighborhood Escape.

Named after the bohemian freethinkers of the 1950s and ’60s, Beatnik channels the beatnik generation’s sense of style, aspiration and rebellion to create an exotic neighborhood escape with maximalist interiors and lush gardens.

Beatnik is a collection of Mediterranean restaurants and bars from Bonhomme Group, inspired by the bohemian spirit of the 1950s and ’60s and those who have chosen creativity, curiosity and self-expression over convention. With locations in Chicago’s West Town, along the Chicago River and in Lincoln Park, each Beatnik is distinctly its own while sharing a sense of escapism, discovery and joyous hospitality.

Beatnik’s globally inspired menus follow a philosophy of “Mediterranean with a passport,” traveling through the Eastern Mediterranean, North Africa and beyond, alongside tropical cocktails and a wine program built around discoveries from lesser-known regions and producers. Conceived by Daniel Alonso and Maison Bonhomme, each Beatnik layers lush interiors, collected objects, abundant greenery, music, food and drink into an escape from the everyday—worldly, romantic and a little unexpected.

THE BEATNIK SPIRIT
beatnik /ˈbiːt-nɪk/ (noun)

“A member of the 1950s–60s movement that defied convention in pursuit of creative expression.”

For us, Beatnik isn’t a style, it’s a mindset. Bob Dylan following instinct beyond the boundaries of folk. Yves Saint Laurent breaking the rules of fashion. Federico Fellini surrendering cinema to dreams, desire and imagination. John Lautner designing from the landscape.

Beatnik Restaurants carry this spirit forward — a destination for modern rebels, dreamers, and creators who, like Dylan, YSL, Fellini, and Lautner, choose creation over conformity.