Founder & Managing Partner

A Chicagoland native, Bruce Finkelman’s celebrated path in hospitality began as a graduate of the University of Missouri’s inaugural Food and Beverage program. Working his way through school at Columbia’s storied Blue Note music club, he found a home for his love of music.

Returning to Chicago, he landed a job with Hyatt Hotels Corp but was stifled by the big-box corporate mentality and he decided to head out on his own. A late night drive through Ukrainian Village would foreshadow the launch of the Empty Bottle. Described by Finkelman as a “cat-ridden hole-in-the-wall,” musical acts from all over the globe were welcomed as Chicago’s music scene blossomed. Three decades later, it is the only Chicago venue to make Rolling Stone magazine’s "20 Best Rock Clubs."

Finkelman’s manifold restaurant concepts are a function of his evolving palate. While bourbon took center stage at Longman & Eagle, and beer became the focus for Dusek’s, live music has always remained a relative constant in Bruce’s pursuits. Finkelman attributes his collection of diverse music venues to his love of live performances. “Create a place where you would want to be, and there are sure to be some others who will like it as well.” He spends what free time he has with his wife and daughter, perusing galleries and restaurants, discovering Chicago’s unique architectural history and neighborhoods, hopelessly rooting for its hometown football team and relaxing at home.