Our Approach

Tallgrass was built to celebrate the incredible beer, wine, spirits, and producers that call the Midwest home. Whenever possible, we choose local. Not because it's trendy, but because we believe great hospitality starts with supporting the people and places around us.

That philosophy shapes everything we do, from the spirits behind the bar to the cocktails we serve. You'll find familiar classics like a Manhattan, Martini, or Negroni, but you may also notice that some brands and bottles you've come to expect aren't on our shelves. That's intentional.

We're not a bar that tries to stock everything or make every cocktail. Instead, we focus on executing a smaller menu exceptionally well, highlighting regional distilleries, breweries, wineries, and producers in drinks that reflect our own point of view.

If we can't make your usual drink exactly the way you know it, we'd love the opportunity to make you something you'll enjoy just as much, or maybe even more. That's the Tallgrass way: local when we can be, thoughtful always, and committed to serving drinks with a true sense of place.

WHAT IS TALLGRASS CORNER BAR?

Tallgrass is a neighborhood bar in Evanston. A place to settle in, meet up, or take a moment for yourself over a well-made drink.

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

1921 Central, at the corner of Central Street and Prairie Avenue in Evanston, Illinois.

WHEN ARE YOU OPENING?

Soon. We’ll share updates when we know more.

WHAT WILL YOUR HOURS BE?

Planned hours are 4pm–1am, Tuesday through Saturday, with last call at midnight. Hours may adjust as we get underway.

WHAT DO YOU SERVE?

A focused selection of local craft beer, select wines, and cocktails made with American spirits.

DO YOU SERVE FOOD?

Our focus is drinks. We will have light snacks available.

DO YOU ALLOW OUTSIDE FOOD?

We do not allow outside food. We encourage you to dine with any of our wonderful neighboring restaurants before or after your visit.

DO YOU HAVE NON-ALCOHOLIC OPTIONS?

Yes. We stock a handful of NA cocktails, NA beer and sodas for guests that do not consume alcohol.

WHAT'S IT LIKE INSIDE?

Warm, relaxed, and designed to feel lived-in from day one. A place to stay awhile.

DO YOU TAKE RESERVATIONS?

No. Seating will be first come, first served.

IS IT GOOD FOR GROUPS?

Best for small groups. If you’re coming with more people, earlier is better.

ARE YOU 21+ ONLY?

Yes.

CAN I BRING MY DOG?

Only service animals are allowed on premise.

WILL THERE BE OUTDOOR SEATING?

We’re planning limited café-style seating outside when weather allows.

CAN I HOST AN EVENT AT TALLGRASS?

We may offer limited private events in the future.

HOW CAN I FOLLOW ALONG?

Instagram is the best place for updates as we get closer to opening or by signing up for our text updates.

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT TALLGRASS?

Email us at info@tallgrassbar.com or DM us on Instagram @tallgrass_bar.

LAST CALL AT MIDNIGHT

FAQ's