Push the lights, sip the Mezcal: Ghost Donkey brings a party to River North

As you step into Ghost Donkey in River North, you’re immediately immersed in a dynamic, high-energy atmosphere. A donkey statue surrounded by candles greets you at the entrance, setting the scene for the party ahead. Latin-inspired music pulses through the air, while above the bar, big round light bulbs glow in vibrant colors, each one waiting for you to push and make them swing. The staff roams the space, showering tables with bubbles from their bubble guns.

Ghost Donkey, a globally recognized tequila and mezcal bar, is the latest addition to Flagship Restaurant Group’s growing portfolio, the new location at 415 N. Dearborn St. promises to offer an immersive experience combining bold flavors, Mexican hospitality, and dynamic design.

Opening in Chicago’s River North, a neighborhood known for its art galleries, nightlife, and vibrant atmosphere, presented unique challenges for the team behind Ghost Donkey. According to Tom Allisma, co-owner and president of Flagship Restaurant Group, adapting to the significantly larger space compared to the brand’s other locations, such as in Phoenix, Denver, and Omaha, was a primary hurdle. 

“The space in Chicago is more than two times larger than our other locations,” Allisma explained in an e-mail interview. 

The new location introduces the Hacienda Room, a private and exclusive space within the bar designed for special events, mezcal tastings, and brand activations. 

"It’s an intimate extension of the main bar and provides a space for private gatherings or dynamic experiences,” Allisma explained. The room reflects the vibrant energy of the brand while offering a unique setting for guests seeking a more exclusive environment.

Ghost Donkey’s approach to mezcal and tequila sets it apart from other bars, as it seamlessly blends traditional Mexican spirits with modern flair. Dustin Fox, beverage specialist at Flagship Restaurant Group, explained how the brand incorporates innovation into its drinks while staying true to the rich history of agave spirits. 

"We use espadín mezcal to honor its tradition, but also strive to create unique cocktails with creative presentations,” Fox shared. 

A great example is the signature Burro Tropical cocktail, which comes with a mini donkey souvenir for guests.

A life-sized donkey stands as the centerpiece of the bar, a nod to the brand’s namesake, “Ghost Donkey.” 

The donkey, adorned in colorful florals and set against a backdrop of vibrant neon lights, serves as a reminder of the role donkeys play in the traditional mezcal-making process. 

"The donkey is the workhorse of mezcal production,” Allisma said, referring to how donkeys are used to crush agave hearts for fermentation.

Additionally, Ghost Donkey aims to contribute to the cultural fabric of River North by collaborating with local artisans, musicians, and vendors. Kelli Pilkington, vice president of Marketing at Flagship Restaurant Group, emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of community. 

"We want to be an integral part of the River North neighborhood, creating experiences that celebrate Chicago’s culture and diversity," Pilkington said.