The Read House hotel, which reopened three weeks ago after an 11-month renovation project, has now opened their new restaurant, Bridgeman’s Chophouse. The restaurant is located inside of The Read House at 107 W M.L.K. Blvd. and is open nightly from 5-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Bridgeman’s is led by manager, Dave Michaelson and executive chef, Dao Le.
This classic, upscale chophouse is named after Peter Bridgeman (aka “Peter Rabbit”). Mr. Bridgeman was one of the most well-known employees of The Read House for 47 years. He served locals and visitors alike and almost never forgot a name or face. The restaurant is named in his honor for his dedication and hospitality to guests of The Read House.
"We are very excited to honor the legacy of Peter “Rabbit” Bridgeman with the opening of this restaurant," said Jon Weitz, owner of Avocet Hospitality Group, which operates The Read House. "We looked at several concepts and the clear choice was to create a fine dining chophouse that complimented that glamour and romance of The Read House. Our goal is for guests to feel like they stepped back in time to one of the classic steakhouses in either Chicago or New York. The atmosphere is intended to make one envision Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. sitting at a corner table enjoying a big steak and reminiscing,”
Bridgeman’s Chophouse features USDA Prime Beef and Chops. While Bridgeman’s menu offers an extensive steak selection, the restaurant will feature seafood, including a seafood tower, raw oysters, and a variety of fresh fish. By year end, the restaurant also plans to offer the city’s largest and most diverse wine list, said officials.
"Bridgeman’s is the perfect blend of modern cuisine in a classic chophouse atmosphere, offering casual elegance and timeless music from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s," said Ken Merkel, general manager of The Read House. "Classic cocktails, a diverse, well curated extensive wine list, terrific steaks and excellent service are all part of the memorable experience we will strive to provide at Bridgeman’s Chophouse."