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 Tapas, Sangria, and a Group of Friends |
42, East Superior Street Chicago, iL 60611 United States +1 312 867 1492 http://www.1492tapasbar.com |
If you've never tried tapas before (or if you're already a fan), then 1492 is the place for you. Located in an unassuming greystone building, this multi-story restaurant is a great place to meet with colleagues or friends after a long day of work or play. Their extensive tapas menu includes a wide-range of hot and cold dishes in small portions that are meant to be shared with friends. (You'll also want to order a pitcher or two of sangria to share as well). While many dishes include meat, there are plenty of meat-free options available for the vegetarians at your table. For those who arrive with a heartier appetite, a number of Spanish and Latin American entrees including a traditional paella are also featured on the menu. -Susan Berg Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Middle Eastern Palace Dining |
1240, W. Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 666 9555 http://www.alhambrapalaceresta... |
At first sight, this restaurant does in fact appear to be a palace. With seven dining rooms, including V.I.P. areas, balcony seating, banquet halls, and a stage, Alhambra Palace Restaurant can seat up to 1,400 people. This entertainment and dining experience is grand in both scale and fashion. The menu draws primarily from upscale Moroccan cuisine, and the drink menu includes Middle Eastern wines and spirits that are otherwise hard to find in the U.S. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Posh Comforts |
108 East Superior Street (at North Michigan Avenue) Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 573 6766 http://chicago.peninsula.com/p... |
Sophistication and comfort come together at The Bar @ the Peninsula Chicago. With dark wood paneling and soft leather chairs, the lounge is an popular place for businesspeople to unwind after a long day at work. In addition to a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, the bar also offers selections of tea and coffee alongside light appetizers. Stretch your feet out in front of the roaring fire with a glass of fine bourbon in your hand-- with comforts such as these, it may be hard to venture outside again. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old Chicago in West Town |
1374, West Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 733 5136 http://www.bellanottechicago.com |
This family-owned restaurant west of downtown has charm and integrity. Come hungry - the pasta portions are unbelievable; you can ask for a half order and still have food for the next few days. Bella Notte serves everything from Chicken Vesuvio to Zuppa de Pesce over Capellini. It has a charming, old-world feel with a wonderful mix of clientele and more than a hint of old Chicago when Al Capone was in charge. No Italian restaurant would be complete without a respectable wine list, and Bella Notte is no exception. Bring your whole family and expect to leave full and happy. -Eun Jung Decker Review © 2007, Wcities |
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1940s style night club |
230 West North Avenue Piper's Alley Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 944 2200 |
After you leave here, you might long for the days when you could actually have visited the real thing. It seems that a 1940s nightclub has been on-and-off in the works in Chicago for years, but this club finally opened at Pipers Alley in Old Town. Singer Celeste Holme fronts a 16-piece band as you sip cocktails and buy cigarettes from the cigarette girl. This is an experience not readily had anywhere else in the country so it's worth a visit, if for no other reason then to dig big band. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Get rid of your blues |
4655 Martin Luther King Drive Chicago, IL 60653 United States +1 773 536 6000 |
This hip American joint is the perfect place to leave troubles behind and unwind. The razzmatazz-splashed interiors, interesting lighting, and contemporary menu makes sure the place is crowded. Chef Blackmon's splendid food creations melt in the mouth and the house beverages are uplifting. Additionally, jazz performances and DJs are a regular feature. Private party facilities are available and so is parking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fresh, inventive seafood |
741 West Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60661 United States +1 312 207 1222 |
Hard to believe seafood in the Midwest could be this fresh, but taste any of the 12 different varieties of raw oysters flown in daily from the Pacific and North Atlantic oceans, or the seafood-based appetizers like baked clams and crab cakes, you will be converted. The kitchen offers an ever-changing menu of seafood prepared inventively and wonderfully with European and/or Asian influences. In addition to the great seafood, the bar features specialty vodkas and great martinis. Bluepoint is located in the hip market district, and the decor and people are chic and sleek. The excellent lighting system makes each table feel private and intimate while still letting you see your food. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Seth Anderson  |
 The Good Life! |
1100 West Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 829 4805 http://www.bonvchicago.com/ |
Don't just dream about the good life - experience it for yourself! Come to Bon V in Chicago and put all of your troubles behind you. Listen to disco/dance and sip on your favorite cocktail. Lounge in the chic atmosphere of this hip bar and forget why you ever had any complaints in your life. No food is served here, so make sure to satiate beforehand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Billiards and More |
640 West Hubbard Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 491 9690 http://www.citypoolhall.com |
City Pool Hall is one of the most famous billiards places in Chicago. Brunswick Gold Crown IV tables with Mauve carpeting makes for an interesting ambiance. Besides quality billiards, this place also has a dining area with a capacity of thirty and also a bar which can accommodate approximately twelve to thirteen people. An outdoor beer garden also plays host to a couple of indoor games such as darts and pool among others, which attracts a lot of regulars. If not interested in playing then you can be an audience to various league games, that take place here though on fixed days and time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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See & Be Seen |
324 W. Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 280 9800 http://www.climaxloungechicago... |
Climax Lounge is dissected into several rooms, one housing a tree in the center, while another has a vaulted ceiling and a disco ball. The decor is dark; a very sleek goth and Renaissance-revival motif runs through out the nightclub. Gargoyles and stone arches are key ingredients in creating the nightspot's atmosphere. The music is a blend of Euro, Trans and Electro. The crowd is young and swanky, fitting for this club whose bathroom attendant wears a tux. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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1940s-style supper club |
1824 West Wabansia Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 227 2300 http://www.clubluckychicago.com/ |
Club Lucky has become a tradition for many Chicagoans. Diners can enjoy their meals in the dining room or in the red booths that litter the authentic cocktail lounge. The bar area replicates the lounge that stood in the same location in 1938. Club Lucky's biggest draw is the heaping portions of Sicilian cuisine, including homemade pastas, and giant slabs of succulent steak and ribs. Or, just stop by after work for a 'killer martini' with hand-stuffed olives. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ben parrell |
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Swanky hotel bar with great piano music |
140 East Walton Street Drake Hotel, Gold Coast, Magnificent Mile Chicago, IL 60611-1501 United States +1 312 787 2200 http://dining.thedrakehotel.co... |
Tucked inside the Drake Hotel, this is one of the city's most elegant bars. It is not hard to believe that this dimly lit bar with its Old World charm dates back to the early 1930s. Order up a martini, find a cozy table and bask in the swank of this experience. The menu features limited seafood selections, including a rich, flavorful clam chowder that is particularly satisfying on a cold day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trent Marinelli |
 Photo: Trent Marinelli |
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Olive Bar |
1551 West Division Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 235 9100 http://www.evil-olive.com/ |
Judging by the closing time of 4a, raging private parties, and the variety of olive-floating mixed drinks, you wouldn't think the Evil Olive is technically just a neighborhood bar. With weekly specials such as half-priced specialty drinks and fun events, this bar is worth checking out; if not just for a stuffed olive or two. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dance and drinks |
3220 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 348 6000 |
This neighborhood restaurant/bar/dance club benefits from the fact that there are no other hot spots nearby. But that is not to say the place isn't worth your while. On weeknights, the restaurant is popular with the young professionals in the area, who come for the pork chops and and baby back ribs (both for about $10). On leisurely Sundays, brunch is served, starting at 11a. Upstairs, the dance loft serves shrimp cocktails and high-octane Cosmopolitan libations, both of which are extremely popular with the young hip crowd. The club has a 1950s décor, and the modulated lighting helps you feel comfortable, even on the latest nights out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ian B |
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Tasty Cocktails and Pizza |
955 West Fulton Market, No. 312 Chicago, IL 60607 United States +312 942 9500 http://www.fultonlounge.com/ |
Fulton Lounge is like no other place in the city to relax with friends, meet new ones, and sip on a cocktail. This modern loft-like lounge contains a patent leather bar, cozy swivel chairs and sofas, a fireplace used during those cold winters, and a 45-seat patio perfect for a beautiful spring or summer day. Fulton Lounge features a variety of wine, champagne, beers, and cocktails. If hungry, order a tasty pizza baked in a wood-burning oven from the neighboring restaurant, Follia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Lincoln Park's Oldest Irish Pub |
2723, N Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 883 0304 http://www.thehiddenshamrock.com |
The welcoming wooden tables and booths of Lincoln Park's oldest Irish drinking establishment (previously named Chasen's and Pat O'Briens') draw from a good portion of the neighborhood's college-age bar goers each night. The pub offers Wednesday open mic nights, live DJs on weekends, and more relaxing traditional Celtic and Irish folk music on Sunday afternoons. Other activities include Tuesday night pub quizzes and Saturday college football specials. The Hidden Shamrock's spacious backroom holds couches, a bar and a pool table, and can be rented out for private party packages. The friendly wait staff also serves bar snacks and meals such as wings, chicken fingers and quesadillas. -Lindsey Klingele Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Chicago, Chicago that toddlin' town... |
1007 N Rush St Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 664 1001 http://www.jillyschicago.com |
Don Rickles, Al Pacino, Jackie Mason, Oliver Stone, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme have all graced this homage to Jilly Rizzo, the long-time owner of Jilly's in New York, former stomping ground of the Rat Pack. Today, this bar is part of the "Jilly's" complex along Rush Street and features live music seven nights a week. Prepare to flashback to the swinging 1950s as you cuddle up to your Jack Daniels and listen to interpretations of the music of Frank Sinatra and other standards from the Great American Songbook. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not for the Kids |
726 West Maxwell Street Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 421 2277 http://www.juniorschicago.com/ |
Smack in the middle of UIC's University Village, Junior's is a haven for grown-ups of all ages. Daily specials, such as Wednesday's $5 cocktails and $0.35 wings on Thursdays, a mojito menu—featuring the Passion Mojito, made with Bacardi Coco and cubes of fresh pear — that would tempt even the lightest of drinkers provides a charming blend of college sports bar and swank lounge. If the dozens of flatscreen TVs flashing Bulls, Bears, and Sox games don't move you, maybe the Friday and Saturday late-night DJs will get you up and groovin'. At the end of a long weekend, the Sunday "Blues Brunch" brings local blues musicians to soothe and entertain hungover diners. -Ruthie Kott Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Green Light |
839, Fulton Market Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 733 2222 http://www.lumen-chicago.com/ |
Lumen is the first green lounge in Chicago. How green, you ask? It's built from renewable resources concrete, bamboo, and stainless steel and offers a variety of organic cocktails. And the owners have planned your experience from beginning to end. When you step inside, you will feel as though you have entered the hippest art gallery that people feel free enough to dance in and enjoy the organic drinks. Down the center of the lounge runs a huge light installation that changes color to affect mood and provide atmosphere. You will feel enlightened and your conscious will be clear in this new West Loop lounge. -Eun Jung Decker Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Warehouse Turned Tasty Italian Restaurant |
1235 W Lake Street Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 850 9870 |
Owned and operated by true Italians, Macello spares no expense in making the building seem straight from the southern shores of Italy. Converted from a warehouse, the vibe inside is very industrial-chic. Indeed, the word "macello" in Italian means slaughterhouse, so you'll find hanging meat hooks, and clear plastic strip doors separating the dining room from an area set up like a butcher shop, with a full deli case lined with Italian meats and cheeses. Exposed bricks, vaulted wooden ceiling, low lit lanterns, and a massive wood-burning oven complete the look. As for the food, you can't go wrong with the pizzas, but if you're in the mood for something heftier, note that the lamb chops are cut three fingers thick. Street parking and valet available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Desperation Loves Company |
151, W Erie Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States |
People from all over come to Martini Park to pump themselves full of liquor in the hopes of attracting someone of the opposite sex. When the lights come up at the end of the night and you realize the hot girl you were talking too looks a lot better under a veil of darkness, remember, standards don't count in bars. You may think she should have told you about the crow's feet before all the drinks you bought, but hey, desperation loves company and you, my friend, are desperate. That's why you're at Martini Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Martinis with a Dash of Panache |
1500 W Balmoral Ave Chicago, Illinois 60640 United States +1 7735616425 |
The first thing you notice upon entering Marty's is how small the space is. No worries, though, as the martinis definitely make up for the squeeze. You can choose to either belly up to the (very big) bar which dominates the room, or claim stake to one of the small tables. When warmer weather permits, you also have the option of grabbing a table on the patio out front. Martinis of many colors and flavors are on the menu. Whether you emulate James Bond (shaken, not stirred) or are in the mood for something a little more frou frou (read: chocolate and delicious), you'll find the martini to fit your tastes on the menu. If you somehow don't find what you're looking for, be sure to ask the friendly bartender for a recommendation - they might just make a drink especially for you!. The drinks at Marty's don't come cheap, but given the generous pour (and potent mixes), one cocktail will often suffice. For those who arrive without a penchant for martinis, there are also a number of wines and beers on offer as well. -Susan Berg Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lots of Good Mexican Food |
2703, N Halsted Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 935 4200 http://www.themayanpalace.com/ |
For the intimate, bordering on cramped size of this place, it is a great surprise when a member of the sincere, friendly Mayan Palace wait staff delivers burritos larger than footballs. Furthermore, one twenty-dollar pitcher of Margaritas offers enough drink to keep the entire restaurant boisterous long past closing time. Though immense portions and cheap prices are always welcome in Chicago, the many Mexican restaurants offering huge burritos for less than five dollars seem to lack a certain…goodness. For the Mayan Palace, however, size does not sacrifice quality. Every item on this menu is big in quantity, quality, and price. Additionally, a central perk of Mayan Palace is that on Tuesdays and Thursdays the massive, delicious margaritas are half price. -Jordan Corson Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lounge around |
1824 West Division Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 862 8686 http://www.moonshinechicago.com/ |
Moonshine is a good place to drink away your sorrows; teetotalers, on the other hand, can dance their blues away! The dishes - Shrimp Fettuccine, quesadillas, calamari, Yucatan Chicken, and the like - don't appeal much, but this place is not about food. The muted lighting and funky decor fascinate the senses, and the spirits flow endlessly - take your pick from beers, martinis, cocktails, wines, and more. Whether you shake a leg or simply lounge around, there's always someone friendly you can chat up. Private events are also hosted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert P. Baird |
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Champagne, caviar and beautiful people |
710 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 787 2675 http://www.narcisse.us |
Come for the scene...and to be seen. If you did not already guess from the name, there are a lot of "beautiful people" here. And the lighting is the dim and seductive kind that casts romantic shadows across your face (and keeps the blemishes at bay). Narcisse goes out of its way to create an indulgently delicious ambiance. Gold mirrors, red velvet chairs, curving enclaves - you get the idea. But there is more to this place than looks. The champagne is great, and the caviar is beautiful. If you are with a group, try to call ahead to secure a booth. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Trendy Locale, Traditional Food |
951 W. Fulton Market Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 491 5804 http://www.otomrestaurant.com/ |
Described as the "counter point" of its sister restaurant Moto, Otom is indeed refreshingly different. Once inside, the atmosphere is cozy and cheerful, with a low light lounge/bar area decorated in grays and oranges, and a formal, white linen dining area. Rather than serving the high-tech avant-garde cuisine found at Moto (you won't be able to eat the menu, or have your food cooked by liquid nitrogen), Otom offers American upscale comfort food at affordable prices. Salmon Ceviche with Lime, Chili, Cucumber & Wonton Chips, Braised Lamb Shank with White Bean Cassoulet, and Beef Short Rib Ravioli with Shallot and Sage Goat Cheese are just some of the hearty fare you will find at Otom. Lounge open late. Located on W Fulton Market, between N Sangamon and N Morgan Streets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Take it to the Face |
1028, W Diversey Parkway Chicago, Il United States |
Experience Chicago's rich Irish heritage at one of the authentic pubs. Paddy Long's keeps customers satisfied and wards away thirst. Everybody knows you can't have dishes like Fish and Chips without beer, that would be ludicrous! Nobody knows this rule of thumb better than Paddy (who may or may not be a real person). They have more than a dozen draft beers to choose from. If you can't choose, try them all! Just give someone else the car keys. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hot Night Spot |
1 West Oak Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 255 0022 http://www.lepassage.tv/index2... |
With frequent celebrity appearances from such notables as Robin Williams, Jay-Z, and Sean Connery, Le Passage is becoming of the most fashionable nightclubs in all of Chicago. Whether you're sipping a drink in the Yow Bar, run by the infamous Yow Low, dancing to the beats of a guest DJ, or simply admiring the elaborate interior design of Jacques Garcia, Le Passage is a hot spot worth seeking out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cocktail Bar and Kitchen |
1635 N. Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60647 United States +1 773 252 2680 http://www.planb-chicago.com/ |
The Plan B Cocktail Bar in Chicago has a mission: to create a chic, sophisticated experience for lovers of nightlife without the pretentious aftertaste or expensive add-ons. Every week guests can expect to find special events such as guest DJ appearances and discounts on meals from the kitchen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Swanky piano and champagne bar |
601 North State Street Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 266 7677 http://www.popsforchampagne.com/ |
This will be an expensive evening out, but a real treat for those with a taste for good music and even better bubbly. Come for the delectable appetizers and desserts, and for the 20 different types of champagne by the glass. Stay for the music. Small combos and piano jazz are the mainstays here, so grab a seat in one of the plush booths and make yourself comfortable in the ultra-classy environment. Bring your credit card, though—a night here is not cheap. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trista B |
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Wine, dine and dance in Sinatra's footsteps |
1301 N State Pkwy Omni Ambassador East Hotel Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 266 0360 http://www.pumproom.com |
It is now a quiet shadow of its former glamorous self, but you should still stop by, if only for a drink at the lounge. Back in its heyday, the Pump Room, named for the famous Pump Room Restaurant at the Roman ruins in Bath, England, catered to celebrities who all sat at the infamous "Table One," which is now sadly stashed away in a warehouse at The Chicago Historical Society. Frank Sinatra, Milton Berle and just about anyone else you can think of has dined here. Closed in 1971, the restaurant was later bought by Chicago's mighty Lettuce Entertain You Company, refurbished and reopened. Today, the restaurant is, thankfully, back in the hands of the Omni Ambassador East Hotel and is starting to reflect its old elegance. A trio plays music daily as you dance or dine on steaks, Baked Alaska and other American classics. Be sure to make reservations and absolutely wear a jacket and tie. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: neil epstein |
 Photo: Meghan Oakes |
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Tequila Tavern!! |
5455 North Ravenswood Avenue Chicago, IL 60640-1148 United States +1 773 769 6667 http://www.ravenswoodpubchicag... |
The place to hangout with friends and family is the Ravenswood Pub. The tireless service of their staff sets it apart from others, with the decor that boasts of a huge fireplace and huge plasma screens. Entertaining is not a question with rotating video games, fights being organized or just watching a game on any one of the screens. The place to head for after work 'The Wall of Tequila' highlights the impressive list of liquor, beer, and local selections like Magaritaville, 1800, Blue Moon & Fat Tire pints and much more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sophisticated Lounge |
1108 West Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60607 United States +1 312 226 5577 http://redkiva.com/index.html |
The Red Kiva lounge offers guests a variety of drinks for all occasions, from the fine wine bar to champagne to beers on tap. With a piano stage surrounded by posh seating and illuminated by dim colored lights and candles, the elegant atmosphere is relaxing and sophisticated at the same time. Also, be sure to try some of the kitchen's gourmet pizza. Call the provided phone number for event rentals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lounge and Grill Brings Class to Wrigleyville |
3418, N. Southport Avenue Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 348 0100 http://www.sopochicago.com |
Drop by SoPo during the warm weather months when its garage door is open to the night air and its tables run up against the sidewalk on Southport Avenue. The back regions of the red-walled lounge and grill includes spacious, horseshoe-shaped booths, low-level lighting and a cozy brick-walled dance area where DJs spin after 9pm. On weekends the nightspot is packed from the bar to the door with the trendy young denizens of the Lakeview/Wrigleyville area. Five-dollar martinis are a Friday night special, and appetizers and light entrees are served daily. SoPo also offers private party packages starting at $25 per person. -Lindsey Klingele Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Charming neighborhood eatery and bar |
2934 North Sheffield Avenue Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 472 7272 |
This casual neighborhood eatery offers romantic dining and charming ambience. Stainless steel tables, a glowing fireplace (in season), soft, low lights, a comprehensive champagne list and mellow music enhance the mood. The menu is limited to appetizers and an array of desserts. The staff is exceptionally friendly, and cover charges vary depending on the night and event. Dress runs the gamut from jeans to suits, but everyone looks great with a chocolate martini in hand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Samba and Teppanyaki |
504 North Wells Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 595 2300 http://sushisamba.com/top.html |
Cuisines of Brazil and Japan, live music, elaborate seating area and an extensive wine and sake list are reasons why you should dine here. Michael Cressotti and Shigeru Kitano do a superb job and create dishes like Tuna Sashimi Serviche ($12) and Vegetable Udan ($17). For dessert, you must try Tres Liete ($8); it goes well with a glass of Port, Sherry or Cognac. Also events, such as 'Make and Eat your own Sushi' are organised from time to time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: laura studley |
 Photo: Laurie Marder |
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Not the Failed Musical |
738, N Clark Street Chicago, Il United States +1 312 787 9900 |
Unlike the ill-fated musical of the same name, there's no Boy George in crazy make-up at this Tabu. What you will find here is scantily clad ladies pouring generous shots and well-balanced mixed drinks. This bar is bachelor party ready, so bring the boys and get rowdy. But don't forget to tip. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An Army of Fun |
56 W Illinois Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 644 7600 http://www.theundergroundchica... |
Every bouncer at The Underground, decked out in full army gear, is equipped with walkie talkies and clipboards as guests are cleared for entrance. Walking down stairs to the subterranean dance floor, concrete walls surround party goers and thick metal doors reverberate with the muffled beats of thumping bass. If you are prepared to drop some cash, this ultra-hip nightclub is sure to deliver a memorable night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tiny bar for big thirsts |
1814 West Addison St Chicago, IL 60613 United States +1 773 296 9620 |
This classy little martini bar hides in an unlikely spot under the Addison stop on the elevated train Brown Line. It plays the part nicely, with a large front window, spacious leather booths and plush bar stools, and more than ten kinds of martinis. You will definitely not find the Tiny Lounge misrepresented in its name; only about 50 people can comfortably squeeze in here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: AtomDesignLab |
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Lincoln Park Live Music + Club |
2447, N Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 248 8400 http://www.tonicroom.com |
With its approachable ground-level stage and cozy, dark interior, the Tonic Room tends to draw a relaxed, music-seeking crowd from the heart of Lincoln Park. The bar kicks off the week with open mic night on Mondays at 10 pm. Live bands play on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and DJs wrap up the weekend. Patrons can sit close to the live acts in long, leather horseshoe-shaped booths or dance near the bar's livelier back area. The bar itself is stocked with bottles and drafts, ranging from Fat Tire to Stella Artois. Antique tonic bottles line the shelf space behind the drinks, lending the bar its unique name and atmosphere. The Tonic Room also offers private party packages for up to 125 people, with prices ranging form $22-$30. -Lindsey Klingele Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Quiet Enough for Conversation |
3243, N. Western Ave. (At W. Melrose) Chicago, IL 60618 United States +1 773 404 9363 |
This posh lounge is a great place for those who actually like to hear themselves talk while enjoying their favorite drink. The setting is intimate with low lighting and dark decor. With about 50 seats throughout the place there is a fair amount of seating, but it can get busy when the late-night crowd rolls in around 2:00. Bartenders are friendly and approachable and service is pretty quick if the time is right. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hip bar in a tourist location |
10 East Walton St Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 266 7761 http://www.undergroundwonderba... |
The name pretty much says it all. Descend the steps into Lonnie Walker's (that's Lonnie, not Johnny) smoky lair. Live jazz and blues plays seven nights a week, and you never know who might show up to sit in on a set or two. This is a surprisingly hip kind of joint for an area that might be described as a tourist trap. It's wonderful, baby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kristy Mangel |
 Photo: Leann Wrightsman |
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Tini Tuesdays and Wine Wednesdays |
155 East Ontario Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 255 8505 http://www.viandchicago.com |
Located just minutes from Michigan Avenue is the elegant, yet comfortable Viand Bar and Kitchen. An open kitchen, chic interiors, soothing music, and an eclectic menu combine to give guests a fine dining experience. However, the innovative Martini menu is its most attractive feature. Stop by to savor some contemporary American cuisine with a twist - Spinach Melt, Grilled Lobster Cheese and Tagliatelle Pasta. And drink to your heart's content during Tini Tuesdays and Wine Wednsdays. Viand, which means delicious dish, truely lives up to its name! Review © 2007, Wcities |