Keywords: webster, chicago, wine, wine bar, winebar, tasting, class, seminar, champagne
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since 1994.
What is your primary product or service?
Serving amazing wines from around the world, focusing on family-owned wineries using traditional techniques.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Webster’s Wine Bar was opened in the fall of 1994 by Tom MacDonald and Janan Asfour, two burned-out litigation consultants looking to make a lifestyle change. We first dreamt of opening a wine bar while sipping on some simple local wine in a dusty, old wine bar near the Cathedral in Seville, Spain. Upon returning home, we spent months doing research and looking for the right location, and finally found our spot on Webster Street and made the big leap.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
We strive to maintain a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere where beginners and experts alike can enjoy a great glass of wine and escape the stress of daily life.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
We own Webster's Wine Bar, The Bluebird, and Telegraph
Provide detailed directions to your location
We are on the border of West Lincoln Park and Bucktown in Chicago. We are 2 blocks south of Fullerton and 2 blocks north of Armitage, and 1 block east of Ashland and 1 block west of Clybourn.
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash and credit cards
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Tom MacDonald, Janan Asfour, and Jason Normann
What are your hours of operation?
Sunday: 4pm-2am
Monday-Friday: 5pm-2am
Saturday: 4pm-3am