Some restaurants in the Loop seem perfectly designed to absorb those expense account budgets and business lunches. Primebar is among that number, and the sleekly designed modern space oozes confidence, as if to say both "You're going to land this deal," and "We should go with these guys." The restaurant seals its own deal with you no matter how well yours is going with a variety of cocktails, appetizers and entrees, for sit-downs at lunch or celebratory dinners.
Everything at this national chain, from the contemporary furniture and tidy, comfortable open floor plan seems to be twisted once or twice to add a bit of personality (the walls of the Denver location feature plastic deer heads illuminated by spotlights) and then shaken up with a bit of the unexpected. A typical soup of the day is the crispy calamari, served in a green curry broth alongside a small bowl of pineapple sambal. Wash that down with the house margarita, featuring a habanero lime syrup and sweetened with agave nectar. The rest of the menu is a series of interesting spins on sandwiches, sushi, and steak and seafood.
The proprietors of Primebar (also the operators of Bar Louie) say that they pride themselves on featuring the freshest local products available, including produce and proteins from around the state, local spirits and wine, and local micro-brews. Shake hands as you close that account, but keep one free to pat yourself on the back.
Average cost: $10-$20
Centerstage Reviewer: Bill Burman
