25-02-2025
Vermilion becomes women-centric Sanctuary
Rohini Dey has rebirthed her River North Vermilion restaurant as Sanctuary Chicago, a "cocktail and comfort food den," featuring the food of women-owned restaurants, retro dance nights and "unfettered conversations."
What she's saying:"In the last few years we've been overt about our politics with ' Let's Talk Womxn' Chicago events, but now I believe it's even more important to stand up and say 'we believe in differences, in immigrants and in women'," Dey tells Axios.
"It's my gesture to bring us all together."
The vibe: Chill and loungy with pictures of groundbreaking women and neon empowerment quotes lining the walls.
On the menu: Vermilion holdovers including tamarind ribs ($24), pani puri ($16) and lomo saltado ($26) and a rotating roster of treats from other women-run spots.
Currently find birria from Tacoltlan ($24), red chai coconut ice cream from Pretty Cool Ice Cream ($10), caramel cake from Brown Sugar Bakery ($12) and a chocolate eclair from Molly's Cupcakes ($14).
Drink up from international cocktails including pisco sours ($14) and a cardamom, saffron and vanilla infused dessert drink called "My Drink My Choice" ($26).
Boogie down every Thursday at 5pm when DJ BesB will spin '70s, '80s and '90s tunes at "Let Loose Retro Thursday" dance parties.
What's next: Dey is hosting her annual Women's History Month party "More than March" at Moe's Cantina on March 2 and the next Let's Talk Womxn event at Sanctuary March 13.
