15 years ago this month, Lynne Parella and Karen Beatteay opened The Chill. Lynne had been in the bar industry for many years and the time seemed right to introduce a wine and beer bar to Benicia. Lynne became sole owner of The Chill ten years ago.
Along with John Johnson, who designed and built the lovely copper bar, Lynne and Karen collaborated on the casual and friendly interior. The bar features high end photography and the décor is restful with a color palette of muted greens, browns and copper. The result is both cool and cozy. In addition there’s outdoor seating. The patio is perfect for people watching and is dog friendly. And by all accounts, the sangria is amazing!
The Chill features an impressively diverse by-the-glass wine menu. The criteria for the wine selected includes finding the best and most interesting wines that are in a reasonable price range. With the help of a buyer, the menu includes local as well as international wines. It is important that the wines are able to stand alone, without food. There is a lovely cheese plate available.
Once or twice a month there is a wine tasting and that’s a great time to try new and interesting wines.
Wine flights are available daily.
The Chill also has a beer menu with a small but nice variety of craft brews and the standards.
The Chill is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff. Lynne thinks Taryn (the manager), Ale and Michelle are the heart and soul of the bar.With fantastic attention to detail, they know their regulars by name and are able to recall their preferred beverage at the drop of a hat. True masters of multitasking, the bartenders are able to stimulate genial conversation between first-time visitors and regulars, all while serving beverages in a timely manner.
There are Bingo fundraisers at The Chill that support nonprofits at least twice a month. August 25thbingo will benefit the rebuilding of Fitzgerald Field for Benicia Little League. September 8thwill benefit Susan G. Komen/ 3 Day. The biggest fundraiser of the year will be “Uncork the Hope” benefitting TheTim and Jeannie Hamann Foundation on Saturday, September 14th.The Benicia based charity supports cancer patients in need.
So, if you’re looking for a place to taste fine wines, quaff a great craft beer, support your community in a fun way, or to simply chill out, look no further than The Chill.
You can follow The Chill on Facebook or Instagram #thechillbenicia.
