GET TO KNOW STANDARD BAR & GRILL
Our Story
1332 North Milwaukee
Chicago, IL. 60622
You Pictured at Standard Bar & Grill
Meet The Team
AARON
MATT
ALEX
TONY
DK
JELENA
🍻 Meet Aaron — The Vision Behind Standard Bar & Grill
For more than eight years, Aaron has been the proud owner and driving force behind Standard Bar & Grill, helping shape it into one of Wicker Park’s most welcoming and energetic neighborhood spots. His leadership and passion for hospitality have made Standard a go-to destination for great food, big games, and unforgettable nights.
With decades of business and people experience, Aaron’s focus has always been on creating a place that feels like home — where locals, visitors, and sports fans alike can gather, laugh, and make memories. His hands-on approach and commitment to his team have fostered the friendly, community-driven atmosphere that defines Standard Bar & Grill today.
When he’s not at the bar, Aaron enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, usually around great food and plenty of laughs. His love for connection and conversation extends far beyond the walls of Standard — it’s who he is at his core.
Favorite Part of the Job: Watching guests turn into regulars and staff grow into family
Off the Clock: Relaxing with loved ones, exploring Chicago’s food scene, and enjoying a good game with friends
Fun Fact: Aaron says the secret ingredient to every great night at Standard is simple — “good people and great energy.”
🍀 Meet Matt — The Heart Behind the House
With over 20 years in the hospitality industry — and the last six leading the way at Standard Bar & Grill — Matt is the kind of general manager every team hopes to have. His mix of experience, leadership, and down-to-earth charm has helped shape the welcoming, energetic vibe that keeps guests coming back to our Wicker Park home.
From day-to-day operations to big game weekends, Matt ensures everything runs seamlessly — food, service, and atmosphere. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of what makes great hospitality shine through in every detail, from the first greeting at the door to the last call of the night.
When he’s not running the show, Matt swaps bar stools for garden tools — he’s a true green thumb, happiest when tending to his plants or relaxing outdoors. Add in quality time with family and friends, and you’ve got a man who knows how to balance hard work with heart.
Favorite Part of the Job: Seeing guests feel at home and staff grow into their full potential.
Off the Clock: Gardening, cooking, and enjoying weekends surrounded by the people who matter most.
Fun Fact: Matt swears his secret to stress relief is as simple as good soil, good music, and good company.
Steady, kind, and always one step ahead — Matt is the driving force that keeps Standard Bar & Grill thriving.
⚽ Meet Alex — The Face You See First
For the past five years, Alex has been the friendly face welcoming guests to Standard Bar & Grill in Wicker Park. Whether you’re walking in for the big game, Sunday brunch, or a late-night round, Alex is the calm in the chaos — keeping the front of house running smooth and the vibes always high.
A die-hard soccer fan and Formula 1 enthusiast, Alex can talk Premier League standings or race-day strategy like it’s second nature. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a friendly debate about which driver really deserves the championship.
Favorite Part of the Job: Meeting new people and matching them with the perfect seat for the game.
Off the Clock: Watching highlights, exploring Chicago’s food scene, or planning the next race-day watch party.
Fun Fact: Tip Alex with a shot of Jameson, and you’ve officially made a friend for life.
Come say what’s up next time you visit — Alex will make sure your night starts off right.
🍻 Meet Jelena — Our Green & Gold Behind the Bar
If there’s one thing that rivals Jelena’s love for the Packers, it’s her passion for keeping the good times flowing at Standard Bar & Grill in Wicker Park. Known for her warm smile, quick wit, and unmatched cocktail game, Jelena has been part of the Standard family for years — turning every game day, happy hour, and late-night rush into something special.
When she’s not crafting the perfect Old Fashioned or remembering your “usual” before you even sit down, Jelena’s probably catching up on Packers highlights or playfully debating Chicago fans about who really owns the NFC North.
Favorite Drink to Make: Classic Old Fashioned
Game Day Order: Spicy wings and a cold IPA
Fun Fact: Jelena once convinced a full table of Bears fans to do a Packers victory shot — and they loved it.
Come say hi to Jelena next time you’re in — she’s the one behind the bar making everyone feel like a regular.
👨🍳 Meet Chef Tony — The Culinary Heart of Standard Bar & Grill
For over 11 years, Chef Tony has been the creative force behind the kitchen at Standard Bar & Grill in Wicker Park — shaping the menu, the flavors, and the reputation that keep Chicagoans coming back for more. Known citywide as one of Chicago’s top chefs, Tony combines classic bar favorites with elevated culinary touches that turn every dish into a standout experience.
Born and raised in Chicago, Tony honed his craft in the city’s competitive restaurant scene before finding his home at Standard. Here, he’s built a menu that perfectly captures the spirit of Wicker Park — bold, inventive, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s game day, brunch, or a late-night crowd, Tony’s kitchen runs with precision, passion, and heart.
Some of his signature favorites include:
The Fried Onion Burger — a juicy 8 oz Angus patty stacked high with white cheddar, garlic mayo, lettuce, tomato, bacon, avocado, and crispy onion rings, all brought together with his signature BBQ sauce.
The Detroit-Style Pizza — a deep, square-cut masterpiece layered with mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni, and jalapeños — a crowd favorite for sharing.
BBQ Chicken Pizza — smoked chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and a hint of cilantro for a perfectly balanced bite.
The Chicken Panini — a comfort-food staple grilled to perfection with mozzarella, balsamic glaze, and fresh basil.
Beef Barbacoa Tacos — slow-cooked beef, pico de gallo, and fresh cilantro that taste like they came straight from a street market.
Favorite Part of the Job: Watching guests light up when their favorite dish hits the table.
Off the Clock: Exploring Chicago’s food scene, mentoring young chefs, and catching a Cubs game when he can.
Fun Fact: Tony can turn a simple batch of wings into an art form — his secret’s in the sauce (and he’s not sharing it anytime soon).
From game-day platters to elevated pub classics, Chef Tony’s fingerprints are on every plate — and his passion for food is what makes Standard Bar & Grill the neighborhood’s go-to spot for more than just great drinks.
💪 Meet Okan — The Power Behind the Bar
Every smooth night behind the bar at Standard Bar & Grill has one thing in common — Okan is on the move. For the past three years, he’s been the heartbeat of our bar team, keeping everything stocked, organized, and running like clockwork.
When he’s not keeping drinks flowing and the crew supported, Okan channels that same energy into his passions — soccer and the Olympics. Whether it’s a late-night match or the thrill of watching world-class competition, he’s all about the teamwork and dedication that make sports great.
Favorite Part of the Job: The fast pace and the family atmosphere behind the bar.
When He’s Not Here: You’ll probably find him on the soccer field or cheering on his favorite Olympic athletes.
Fun Fact: Okan can restock an entire bar before most people finish their first beer — it’s his version of gold-medal speed.
So next time you see him hustling behind the scenes, give Okan a nod — he’s one of the main reasons your night goes off without a hitch.
🛡️ Meet DK — The Guardian of Standard Bar & Grill
For nearly three years, DK has been the calm, commanding presence that keeps things running smoothly and safely at Standard Bar & Grill in Wicker Park. As part of our security team, DK is the guy you want on your side — always professional, always alert, and always in control, no matter how busy the night gets.
With an elite military background, DK brings discipline, precision, and leadership to every shift. Whether it’s managing the crowd on a packed game night or ensuring guests have a safe and welcoming experience, his focus never wavers. Behind that strong exterior is a genuine passion for people — he’s here to make sure everyone feels secure while having a great time.
When he’s not on duty, DK channels his energy into two things that keep him sharp and balanced: motorcycles and fitness. You’ll often find him hitting the gym, tuning up his bike, or taking a long ride to clear his head.
Favorite Part of the Job: Keeping the energy high and the environment safe so everyone can enjoy themselves.
Off the Clock: Riding along Lake Shore Drive, training, and motivating others to stay fit.
Fun Fact: DK treats every shift like a mission — but one where everyone wins when the night ends on a good note.
Strong, steady, and dedicated — DK isn’t just part of the team; he’s the quiet force that keeps Standard Bar & Grill running at its best.
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