Nov. 25--Paul McGee is leaving Three Dots and a Dash, the popular River North tiki bar that has earned accolades from around the world since opening less than 16 months ago. McGee will also step down from his role at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, where he has helped guide the cocktail programs at Bub City, RPM Italian and several of the company's other new River North restaurants.
"I'm so proud of my staff at Three Dots and a Dash and all that we've accomplished together," said McGee in a statement. "The decision to leave my partnership with Lettuce Entertain You has been a very difficult one, but it's a decision that I've made carefully. I'm excited for what the new year will hold!"
After opening in July of last year, Three Dots and a Dash was named Best New American Cocktail Bar at the Tales of the Cocktail festival in New Orleans. It was also listed as the 27th best bar in the world in an annual ranking by Drinks International.
"Paul has been a great partner and is an influential ambassador for Chicago's cocktail culture," said Lettuce Entertain You chairman Rich Melman. "We are thrilled with his creative contributions to our restaurants' bar programs and we wish him all the best in his next endeavor."
McGee's departure from Three Dots and a Dash follows last month's news that Charles Joly was leaving his post as beverage director of The Aviary.
Lettuce Entertain You said Diane Corcoran will oversee the bar program at Three Dots and a Dash beginning Dec. 1.
kmarlatt@tribpub.com
Twitter: @kenneymarlatt
