Brasero

Brasero in Chicago, designed by Siren Betty Design, draws from Chef John Manion’s South American roots to create a warm, layered space. Inspired by 1970s Brazil, the restaurant blends bold textures, sculptural forms, and curated patterns for an atmosphere that feels vibrant, lived-in, and effortlessly inviting.

Brasero tells a story of memory, flavor, and nostalgia. Inspired by Chef John Manion’s childhood in 1970s South America, the space unfolds in layers of texture and light. Serpentine banquettes curve beneath plaster arches, while quatrefoil screens cast shifting shadows across richly patterned surfaces. The palette feels sun-worn and familiar, where bold colors soften into warmth and patina. Every detail feels collected, not constructed, as though the restaurant has existed for decades. Working alongside Within Light Studio, the lighting becomes its own ingredient, with glow, flicker, and reflection bringing rhythm to the room. The result captures the spirit of live-fire cuisine and embodies Siren Betty Design’s instinct for creating spaces that feel both soulful and enduring.

Photos by Garrett Sweet and Wade McElroy