West Town welcomes a new addition to its vibrant hospitality scene: Perman Selections Wine Bar and Bottle Shop, opened by well‑known independent retailer Craig Perman at 1412 W. Chicago Ave. The space occupies the former Lush Wine and Spirits storefront, which closed earlier this year.
Dual Concept Serves Local Community
Perman, who has run the Near North Side shop Perman Wine Selections since 2017 and co‑owns the Le Midi wine bar in Wicker Park, said the opportunity to combine a retail shop with a tasting bar was an immediate draw. “I really loved the idea of having not just a retail store, but also a place where people could enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a beer,” he told Block Club.
The wine bar will feature roughly 20 different glasses of wine, including six whites, six reds, plus sparkling, orange and rosé selections. Wines hail from France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Greece and other regions, with price points ranging from $13‑$15 per glass up to higher‑end offerings. Each glass can also be ordered as a half pour, allowing patrons to sample more expensive varietals without paying full price.
Cocktails, Snacks, and a Growing Selection
In addition to wine, the bar will serve five rotating cocktails, each highlighting a spirit category such as tequila and mezcal, gin, rum, whiskey, and brandy. Perman is also developing a digestif spirits program. While the venue will not serve full meals, it will offer bar snacks like nuts, olives, cheese, and cured meats—perfect for a pre‑dinner drink or a late‑night nibble.
The retail side will showcase about 175 bottles from around the world. Customers can browse the selections, attend tastings, and even pick up a bottle late at night. “If it’s 9 p.m. on Saturday and you need a great bottle, I’m probably the best place in town for that,” Perman said.
Neighborhood Context and Hours
The new spot joins a cluster of popular eateries and bars on Chicago Avenue, including the newly opened Basque tavern Gilda and nearby establishments such as John Manion’s Brasero, Flour Power, and the French bakery Guillotine. Perman cited the walkability and neighborhood feel of West Town as key reasons for choosing the location.
Operating hours are noon‑10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, noon‑midnight Friday, 11 a.m.‑midnight Saturday, 11 a.m.‑7 p.m. Sunday, and noon‑9 p.m. Monday; the shop is closed on Tuesdays.
Supporting Local Hospitality
By blending a retail wine shop with a tasting bar, Perman aims to educate customers and expand their palates, continuing his long‑standing focus on wine education. The opening adds another independent, family‑friendly venue to West Town’s growing dining and drinking landscape.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
