Potter's Place and Two-Nine Martini Lounge — Restaurant in Naperville

Horrible bridal shower experience. A memorable night was ruined by stupidity, lack of professionalism, and unnecessary aggression. A member in our party was faced with discrimination based on “dress code” (no signs or rules of dress code posted in sight of the establishment or on the website) and “gang affiliation.” For wearing a pink bandana with flamingo’s on it as a headband.

However, when someone else in the party wore the bandana for the duration of our stay ( a white woman) and passed by the same security guard who came to yell at the other member in our party twice, nothing was said to her. She intentionally got his attention and he smiled and said hi. We were in disbelief. To make matters worse, when I approached security and asked if I could speak to a manager, he interrogated me on why I needed to, said no one was available, it was not his job, their too busy, and proceeded to argue with me and refused to call a manager for a solid 15 minutes before getting his security manager who then brought us to the restaurant manager to speak to us. When we would attempt to explain the situation he did not listen to anything that was said and tried to say we were raising our voices at him, in an attempt to deflect from the matter at hand instead of attempting to diffuse the situation and obviously he is going to take his colleagues side. He did admit that the bandana shouldn’t have been an issue, encouraged the member in the party to put it on and enjoy the rest of his night and we shouldn’t have been yelled at in first place, but it was not a sincere apology he simply did not care to hear our complaints. He also refused to refer us to someone above his position to speak to on a later date.

Upon leaving, I confirmed with security at the door that preforms the bag check if they would have told him to remove his bandana if it was a security concern or against dress code and he said he would have.

I didn’t realize that it was company policy for security and management to have different dress code rules and that security had the authority to refuse management to parties, or that management is “too busy” to maintain patron satisfaction. I hope in the future all patrons are treated with respect regardless of the color of their skin.

Also, this is sadly my first review, this is not a fake review as you have accused others of making in a previous response...

A couple weekends ago I attended a birthday party which we decided to try Potter's/2-9 for some drinks. The staff outside checking identification, however, had other plans. I was second in line of my friends and handed my MILITARY ID over to the security staff. After looking back and forth a couple times the lady said that she would need to see another form of identification, which I have no problem with. However the tone in which she had asked made me curious why, so I asked. This lady couldn't come up with anything other than to repeat herself over and over that I need another form of ID. I explained to her that I would happily give her another identification card if she could provide a solid reason other than the fact that I'm a serving military member. At this point I'm beginning to get frustrated since she's clearly discriminating and asked to speak with a manager. The gentleman directly next to her, having heard the ENTIRE encounter steps up and tells me he can't do anything and that the lady sees something she doesn't like on the ID and that I'll have to show another ID. So after trying to reason with him explaining how all I want is a reasonable explanation to give another picture ID (since a military ID is almost as good as a passport and DEFINITELY better than an Illinois ID). After arguing without getting anywhere, he eventually says I could even show a credit card with my name on it. I have no problem with that, I have had that happen with my driver's license before and is common practice, so say OK and start pulling out my wallet. The manager interrupts me and says "nah, nevermind, it's too late now, we aren't going to let you in". I'm almost flipped my lid on the staff. We said forget it we will take our business elsewhere, my entire party of people, and this jerk wisecracks that "we have plenty of business anyway". Just want to point out that this occurred at 9pm before a single drink was even bought. I could not be more disappointed in an establishment that treats our active service members and veterans with such disrespect. I will never set foot in this establishment again. Shame on you...

If you’ve ever stepped foot into Potter’s Place and had the pleasure of being served by Richard, you already know—he’s the heart of the bar. Richard isn’t just a bartender; he’s the soul of the service experience at Potter’s. From the moment you walk in, his presence is magnetic. He’s got that perfect blend of charisma, professionalism, and warmth that instantly makes you feel like you’ve been a regular for years—even if it’s your first time there.

What makes Richard truly outstanding at Potter’s Place is how effortlessly he turns an ordinary night out into something unforgettable. He’s not just slinging drinks—he’s curating moments. His knowledge of cocktails is deep, his speed behind the bar is unmatched, and his attention to detail is on another level. Whether it’s a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned, a spicy margarita with a twist, or a custom creation based on your mood, Richard delivers every single time. And he doesn’t just pour a drink—he gives you a story, a laugh, and a sense of connection.

But what really stands out is how he elevates the entire vibe of Potter’s Place. When Richard is behind the bar, it feels like the party is in the right hands. He’s engaging without being overbearing, professional without being stiff, and he has this uncanny ability to make everyone—from first-timers to loyal regulars—feel like they’re exactly where they’re supposed to be.

Ask anyone who frequents Potter’s and they’ll tell you: it’s not just the music, the crowd, or the drinks that bring people back. It’s Richard. He brings consistency, class, and character to the bar. He’s the guy who remembers your favorite drink, checks in on your night, and somehow manages to keep the energy high even when the place is packed.

Behind the scenes, he’s just as rock solid—helping his teammates, managing the rush, and setting a high standard for what it means to be a great bartender. Potter’s Place is lucky to have him—and so is every customer who walks through those doors.

Simply put, Richard is a legend at Potter’s Place. And if you...