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 Jazzy night |
1007 North Rush Chicago, IL 60601 United States +1 312 751 2433 / +1 312 751 2434 http://www.backroomchicago.com/ |
The dimly lit environs are a perfect backdrop for this hidden gem. Enjoy drinks and live jazz, by artists like Verne Allison and Bobby Lewis, in an intimate ambiance. The Back Room doesn't allow standees, so be seated in either the Showcase Lounge or VIP Celebrity Bar. The walls are adorned with murals and paintings. Call for reservations and keep in mind there is a two drink minimum per set. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dance till dawn |
2020 North Halsted Avenue Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 281 0177 |
A late-night fixture on the scene for years, people cram in here after the other clubs have closed to expend whatever energy they have left on the dance floor. For those whose feet refuse to move, there are several pool tables and chairs to slump on. And, as at any late nightspot, a tinge of desperation hangs in the air as the guys try to make that all-important eye contact. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Techno Funky Bar Get Down & Rowdy |
954 West Belmont Avenue Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 348 4975 http://www.berlinchicago.com/ info@berlinchicago.com |
The heyday of Belmont Avenue's punk scene is long since gone, but Berlin is somewhat of a holdover from the area's Bohemian past. No longer punk, Berlin has a gay and lesbian clientele and holds attraction for many others, as well. If you like dark, loud and eclectic, this is a safe bet. There's a disco night once a month, so you may want to call ahead to see if you should wear your bell bottoms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The fireplace is the thing |
1600 West Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 243 8778 |
Regulars are here for the jukebox, the dartboard, a game of cricket and, of course, the liquor. This is one of the few places in the city that gets cozier as the temperature drops. The risk of frostbite on the journey there is outweighed by the prospect of warming up next to the hearth of one of the few working bar fireplaces in the city. The Lounge draws a healthy weekend crowd and is a favorite of many people who don't live nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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See Here |
853, North Western Avenue Chicago, IL United States +1 773 395 3002 |
Full of young hipsters, this bar used to be the place to be for those Vertigo fans. However, if you're having trouble recognizing the place, thats because it has recently been remodeled and features an entirely new space (that is, if you've never been to Lava Lounge on Damon Avenue.) There's no food here, so make sure you grab something before your night of drinking. If you need a snack, there's some peanuts and chips if you ask the bartender. They are the ones that run the music too, so if you have something in mind just give them a shout. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
 Nothing fancy, a down to earth bar |
13 West Division Street Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 266 0944 |
Sports and dancing mix at this blue-collar Division Street bar. Come in to catch the game on one of the five screens, or just come in to escape from the throngs of singles looking for partners at the other, more crowded bars on the street. There isn't much selection in the way of beer and liquor, but no one seems to mind. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Giddy Girlie |
 Photo: Max Krueger |
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Popular neighborhood tavern |
1958 West North Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 278 5138 |
This popular neighborhood tavern is one of the busiest bars in Wicker Park. If you arrive here after 11p, you will not find a seat anywhere, not even in the oft fought-over window sills. The preferred drink here is beer by the pint and this bar has all of the standards with the pick of the litter being Red Hook at $3.50. The bartenders and waitresses ooze attitude and so does the crowd. At the cross-hairs of the North-Damen-Milwaukee intersection, this bar is the favorite of area professionals for meat-market debauchery. The bathrooms, if you can step over enough people to get to them, unfailingly reflect that philosophy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Beers, Burgers & Billiards |
1447 North Wells Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 664 4699 |
While the rest of Chicago's bars are closing their doors and sweeping up, Burton Place is still a bustle of late-night activity. It has long established itself as a favorite local hangout, and draws a wide clientele who pack the bar every night of the week. Though the main level can be overstuffed at times, there are two others that tend to be a bit mellower, offering billiards and other dive-bar fun. With a laid-back staff and prompt service, Burton Place is a popular place to catch a game and share a pint with friends. Also be sure to check out the pub-grub menu, as many regulars would argue that the ribs and burgers are the best around. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not just the three-ring variety |
901 West Weed Street Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 266 1200 |
Open since December 1998 at the former site of the Bub City Crab Shack, this 15,000-square-foot club was decorated by designer Jordan Mozer. The establishment is all about entertainment and the gratification of your need for sensory experience. The dance area is large and rimmed with rings of lighting equipment that swerve, thump and move geometrically about the room, flashing in syncopation witht the bass rhythms. The circus colors will inspire you to show your childish side while dreaming of unicorns and cotton candy. Dance to the tunes of Rob Thurmond and Mike Pierce DJ on Fridays. Thurmond DJs alone on Fridays and Saturdays. 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... info@climaxloungechicago.com |
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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Jazz, blues, disco and more |
1710 South Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60616 United States +1 773 341 9787 |
Not quite like the famous New York club it is named after, but this is still a fine jazz club in its own right. White walls, a gleaming grand piano, tuxedoed servers, silver mirrors - this is a class act with classy acts. Art Porter and Cassandra Wilson are just two of the big names who often perform here. The back room is a separate club unto itself that offers disco dancing, and, on Monday nights, the open microphone draws in a large and boisterous crowd. Admission is $10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Super Hot-Spot for Progressive Music |
1543 North Kingsbury Street Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 266 1900 |
This "alternative" club is housed in a bleak-looking warehouse, with a bleak interior that matches quite well with the outside. The dark interior features a guillotine and music that no one outside of Crobar's domain will hear on the radio for at least a year. The music played is progressive and fresh, but it is extremely difficult to get in to listen to it. More than half the people who show up are turned away at the door, unless you happen to be gay and have brought your lover along with you. Straight people are welcome - just don't show up dressed in khakis. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Harper Reed  |
 Photo: Bucky Skeel |
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Party with the dragon |
809 West Evergreen Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 751 2900 |
This nightclub is the coolest and hippest in the Chicago nightclub scene, and it tries to accomplish that by targeting a young and above-average income crowd. Everything is expensive, including the stiff $10 cover. If you can spend more, you will have more fun here. The place is all chinoiseries and loud music, a three-level ancient Asian temple becomes a dance club and the dazzle is enough to conjure a few celebrities amid the crowd on the busy main floor, or upstairs in the VIP room. It also boasts a sushi/sake bar, offering several types of sushi rolls, including California (crab, avocado, cucumber) and spicy ebi roll (rice, seaweed, sesame seeds, shrimp, cucumber, avocado, spicy sauce) among others. Women can get libations in the Dragon Lady Lounge/bathroom. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dance to Latin rhythms |
1249 North Ashland Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 235 1293 |
If you did not know what you were getting into, you might be frightened of the low light and Screaming Mimi appearance of this Wicker Park drinking establishment. A no-frills Mexican dance joint filled with cowboys who seem to stare at you may not make it a great first stop when your inhibitions are high, but there is no cover and the crowd is friendly enough after the first couple beers. Viva! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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Multi-level dance club |
632 North Dearborn Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 266 1944 |
The building where this club is housed opened in 1892. It was dubbed "the castle" and designed by Henry Ives Cobb, best known in Chicago as the architect for the Fisheries Building at the 1893 World's Fair. Today, "the castle" is home to a multi-level adult playground that features games, billiards, a club room that plays disco and "The Dome Room," which plays current music. This is a wildly popular nightspot and seems to draw "the beautiful people" from Chicago and the suburbs, as well as visiting celebs. Leave your flashy car with the valet, shine up your capped teeth and join in the fun. Admission varies, usually under $10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Max |
 Photo: Maria Vassilieva |
 Photo: michael feldstein |
 Photo: HeadOvMetal |
 Photo: Geoffrey Zhu |
 Photo: Bryan Rulli |
 Photo: Dolapo Falola |
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Large-scale lounge |
440 North Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 226 4555 |
This 10,000-square-foot lounge is a full-frontal assault on your mood, complete with laser light and kaleidescopic wall-projected images. The VIP area in the rear is filled with oversized red couches that you can lay back on and chat if the music does not drown out your voice. If you are into dancing, Rednofive downstairs is open and waiting to accommodate that twitch in your feet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dance without the brakes on |
151 East Wacker Drive Hyatt Regency Hotel Chicago, IL 60601 United States +1 312 239 4544 / +1 312 565 1234 http://www.harddrivechicago.com/ nicole@harddrivechicago.com |
If you're looking for a bit of LA in Chicago, then this trendy club is the place to get down and get dirty. Located at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, it's as downtown as you can get. As you enter, you will be plunged into a technological fantasy with eight plasma screens that show over 7,000 music videos in a night. Leap onto the dance floor, which is illuminated by a huge glass globe, spurting out rays of light. Each weekend, the club opens its doors to fashion shows and local celebrities - and they don't close till 5a, so you can get down to it into the wee hours! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: http://pbinder.com/ |
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Dancing Queen or Funky Town? |
5336 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 United States +1 773 275 6711 |
Hidden Cove is not exactly hidden from the Chicago karaoke scene. Open until late, wannabe singers and revelers belt out one song after another. Find students, club hoppers, tipplers, and those out for a fun night. Additional entertainment comes in the form of dart boards, pool tables, TVs, and trivia competitions. So if you think you can sing like Tori Amos, show the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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If You're Hunting for a Good Time |
1100, North State Street (At N. Rush) Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 988 7887 http://www.huntclubchicago.com/ neve@huntclubchicago |
This airy pub offers indoor and outdoor (during limited times) seating that can accommodate large groups. Live dj's can be found spinning several nights a week. In addition to being a full-service bar, this place doubles as an eatery that even includes brunch on the weekend. There are many televisions around for everyone's viewing pleasure, but can make the area crowded during their specially televised sporting events. Tourists, local business people, and everyday folk can be found at the many tables and seating areas in the Hunt Club during any day of the week. The mood is mellow during the week, allowing for people who need to relax and enjoy a beer, but the bar gets busy on weekends where many tear up the dance floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Minimalism Meets the Classic Cocktail |
610 North Rush Street (James Hotel) Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 660 7200 http://www.jameshotels.com/chi... |
J Bar is one of the newer, stylish lounges to open in Chicago. The clientele is mostly young professionals, some of whom are staying upstairs in the James Hotel. Celebrity bartenders create inspiring concoctions – try one of the martinis on for size, or order a bottle of Champagne for your table. Don't worry about finding a parking spot in one of the hottest night-spots in town, a hotel valet will await your arrival. Remember dress to impress, as the atmosphere has the beautiful and chic in mind. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: brian kelly |
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Far below the surface |
1916 North Lincoln Park West Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 312 337 4040 |
The place would be hard to locate except for the dark purple sign and tented steps leading down into the club. The whole place is made up to look like the inside of a cavern and is appropriately lit, so that you might feel like you want to do some spelunking. Like many of the more interesting Chicago clubs, this place doesn't really get underway until midnight, and if you are out on a weekend, be prepared to wait in a line that may very well extend around the block. The music is classic rock and urban-jazz, and the dress code is casual to semi-formal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Inviting Atmosphere |
1920 West Irving Park Road Chicago, IL 60613 United States +1 773 348 7592 http://www.katerinas.com |
Katerina's is an exciting nightclub that offers delicious Southern European food, along with a warm atmosphere and live music. This is a hot spot for any music lover, as jazz, funk, Latin, blues, and many other styles of music are played daily. Private parties are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Harvard Avenue |
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The Red Apple |
108, West Kinzie Street Chicago, IL United States +1 312 245 9555 |
French for "Red Apple," this bar has a certain "je ne sais quoi". The bar has a turn-of-the-century vibe with bits of Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Victorian flair interspersed. Most of the original pieces are mirrors, stools, paintings, and other items that really give you the feeling of having been transported back in time. Its a fairly large venue with three rooms that are available for private parties. They also hold regularly scheduled events such as intellectual readings and performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual dining and martinis on the Gold Coast |
7 West Division Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 337 2583 http://www.aceplaces.com/ robinson@ACEplaces.com |
This is a swanky little Gold Coast location for lounging and casual dining. The postmodern decor features a melange of furnishings and accessories dating from the 1930-60s. The music is unpredictable, at once mixing funk, house, electronic and swing tunes. Occasionally, the bar charges a modest cover around $5. The martini offerings are immense, with curiosities like the "Spiked Heel," a concoction of vodka, gin and a mist of vermouth. Or try the "Comfort Zone," with Southern Comfort, sweet vermouth, bitters, sugar and a cherry. If martinis are not your bag, select from a number of premium whiskeys or small batch bourbons. 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/ info@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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The name says it all |
1948 North Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 871 3339 |
As the name implies, this is a gay bar. In fact, it is one of the few holdouts in a neighborhood that was once dominated by gay bars. (The main area for gay nightlife has now moved North on Halsted between Addison and Belmont.) But if the gay headquarters for nightlife has moved to a trendier area, the folks at Manhandler don't mind, since few people would accuse Manhandler of being trendy. In fact, this windowless bar with no dance floor does little to attract the guppies (gay yuppies) who frequent "Boys Town" to the north. What you will find is a friendly bar, a vast porn collection shown on TV monitors and some leather-wearing men. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Let it rip |
1745 West Armitage Ave Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 278 7317 |
Good friends and good fun have been part of this bar since 1961. This is one of those neighborhood-type places where the photos of those who get the most drunk decorate a wall. Leave your pretensions (and credit cards—cash only, please) at the door when you enter this veritable classic of a dive. The owner, a white-haired woman named Marie Wuczynski, lives above the bar. In her 70s, Marie says that her customers keep her young at heart, and she certainly is feisty enough for it to be true. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: melissa |
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Martinis galore and then some |
311 West Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 335 9500 |
This is a tiny bar with a tinier dance floor that tries to combine the intimacy of a neighborhood pub with the boom-boom volume of a nightclub. You can crowd onto the dance floor if you have a death wish. Better, hang back in the smoky bar, choose your cigar and pick from an exhaustive menu of martinis and olives (the blue cheese olive is really good). As far as trendy cigar and martini places go, this is one of the friendliest in the city, but it can get kind of noisy, so do not expect to discuss the latest film while sipping your overpriced drink. There is a $5 cover on Tuesdays for "Club Night" as well as a $3 cover on Fridays and Saturdays. 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/ felix@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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Loop lawyer bar |
5 West Hubbard Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 828 0007 http://www.motherhubbards.net/ info@motherhubbards.net |
A sports bar with all the accoutrements, including four satellite hook-ups, three big-screen monitors and 15 smaller televisions. Because they offer drink discounts to area law firms, the place gets packed with legal types, alongside neighborhood regulars who want to play foosball in the front or pool on any of the three tables in the back. An aquarium under the main big-screen monitor contains four piranhas. You can also order food here, with the menu offing Mexican dishes, rotisserie chicken and standard bar fare at the standard bar prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The original mama of nightclubs still going strong |
26 West Division Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 642 7251 originalmothers@enteract.com |
This nighttime, good time favorite in the heart of Rush Street is still beating strong after more than 30 years. Variety is the appeal, with three distinctive rooms and four full-service bars. The front room is classic, with Tiffany-styled lamps, crystal chandeliers, pool tables and a free jukebox. The game room, cafe and gift shop are on one side. The main room is where the action is, with a huge dance floor, state-of-the-art sound system, laser lights, fog machine and entertaining DJ. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Get Out There |
116, West Hubbard Street Chicago, IL United States +1 312 329 9960 |
If you're blonde, semi-attractive, and don't want to sleep in your own bed tonight, you'll find all the fixings to snag yourself a great night. Everyone will want to be you, but the only thing is... everybody already looks like you! Try to compose yourself over the 2 for 1 drink specials that'll get you off your feet in no time! So sit back, relax, and let the rest of your night come and buy you a drink. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Popular spot for the Gothic minded |
2350 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 528 2622 |
Blink, and you might miss it. When you pass Urban Outfitters walking south (towards the Loop) on Clark Street, turn right down the first alley. Yes, this gloomy, dark hangout for the Gothic and industrial crowd is located, appropriately, in an alley. Make sure only to come after midnight - the place is well, kind of dead until then. After the midnight hour, this dark club packs them in as they dance (sort of) to techno music, and occasionally look up to catch the avant-garde film clips on the monitors above the tiny bar. Admission varies, call for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sultry jazz and blues 'til the wee small hours |
1565 North Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 489 0011 http://www.thenotechicago.com/ |
Tucked away in the historic Flat Iron Building is a seductive 1940s joint. Billie Holiday and Louis Prima seep through the jukebox, and break only for the best national or local jazz and blues talent, three or four times a week. Patrons will find a fine selection of beverages, including bygone favorites: parched martinis, Manhattans and Pink Ladies. Take advantage of the spacious dance floor to sway to the sultry sounds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christina Jimenez |
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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... geninfo@lepassage.tv |
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/ info@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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Boogie all night long |
213 West Institute Place Between Franklin and Wells Streets Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 664 0777 http://www.pollyesthers.com/ info@pollyesthers.com |
The best of the 1970s and 80s come back in groovy living color and sound in this nightspot. Leisure-suited hustlers and frosty-eyed bumpers can get it on to disco music on the "Deca Dance" floor. If you are craving the 80s, you will find it in the "Culture Club" downstairs, complete with Madonna, Pac Man and Van Halen. Take a sip down memory lane with TV and movie themed drinks: "Sonny," "Cher," "Raging Bullwinkle," "The Godfather," and "Jaws." Hang out in other time zones in the Partridge Bus, Lava Bar, Lunch Box Lounge and the Luv Bug. Average cost per drink: $7. Cover: $10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Steaming hot Wicker Park dance club |
1958 West North Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 278 1009 |
This is a hot, sweaty, thumping dance club that draws people from all over the city to shake and move to the urban beat spun by some of the best DJs in town. Duck down the alley off North and enter this dark club adorned with a variety of religious icons and stained glass windows. The upstairs room plays music from the 1970s, but downstairs is where the real action is at. On weekends, the club occasionally has drag shows. This is Wicker Park hip as it was meant to be. 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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Wine by the piano |
16 West Ontario Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 640 1000 http://www.redheadpianobar.com/ redheadpianobar@msn.com |
Renditions of Cat Stevens, the Rolling Stones, Billy Joel, and Beatles rent the air as you set foot into this place. Known for music and spirits, Redhead is the place to reminisce over a bottle of Chandon Brut. Liquors, cocktails, and classic wines feature in the drinks menu. The cigar rack is also promising. The piano area is busy with artistes and sing-along buddies requesting their favorite number. The attire is strictly business casual. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Henley |
 Photo: Holly Omansiek |
 Photo: Lauren Flores |
 Photo: Stacy Lear |
 Photo: Jennifer Diamond |
 Photo: Michael Q |
 Photo: Brian Shields |
 Photo: Rachel Weinstein |
 Photo: Nicole Ellis |
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Big portions! |
2049 West Division Street Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 773 772 2727 http://www.thesmallbar.com/ Smallbar@hotmail.com |
This friendly neighborhood bar is clean, stylish and comfortable—just right for an evening with an old pal. Relax as you take in the unpretentious crowd and the helpful staff, or watch the MLS soccer games on the flat screen TVs. Take your pick of beer, or snack on tasty appetizers like wings, sandwiches, fried mushrooms and chips, moving onto a satisfying Caesar, chicken or house salad. Those looking for a hearty brunch will be presented with pancakes, burritos, French toast and delicious sides like ham and sausages. Wind up with a glorious, diet-breaking Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich—it promises to tip the bathroom scale a little more! The venue also plays host to several sport and music events. Check the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shylo Bisnett |
 Photo: Noel Cornell |
 Photo: Darryl Ross |
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Get smart, drink beer |
3730 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60613 United States +1 773 549 4140 http://www.smartbarchicago.com/ |
This is one of the most popular late-night spots in Chicago - located right underneath Metro, Chicago's venerable rock venue. Each night, Smart Bar features a different type of music, from jazz to rock. There is no cover charge during the week, but the place is almost as lively as it is on the weekend since each night features a different and unusual theme, such as "Noir Night." This is a terrific spot for people-watchers. Cover charge of $3-$5 on Friday & Saturday after 11p. Average cost per person is $5. No booking necessary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicole C |
 Photo: PinLight |
 Photo: Asher Gray |
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Shake Your Booty |
1444 West Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 226 7600 |
If you want to learn how to party, Chicago's Sonotheque is the place to be. Done up in all grey, it may sound rather boring, but the place looks really swanky. With curved walls, acoustic tiles and a state-of-the art speaker, thumping music is what you get here. Thumping enough to shake your booty all night long. Otherwise, plonk yourself on one of the comfortable couches and drink the night away. Check out film clips, which are played on the overhead projector. Or even better, the party scene, which is always happening. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: paulette barry |
 Photo: Trent Marinelli |
 Photo: R.Gardiner |
 Photo: Oscar Arriola |
 Photo: R.Gardiner |
 Photo: erika dot net |
 Photo: ben syverson |
 Photo: Oscar Arriola |
 Photo: Dasha Anokhina |
 Photo: Matthew Taplinger |
 Photo: Miles Raymer |
 Photo: Miles Raymer |
 Photo: Trent Marinelli |
 Photo: ben syverson |
 Photo: Roy Shay |
 Photo: Matthew Taplinger |
 Photo: Harper Reed |
 Photo: Harper Reed |
 Photo: 3phazer |
 Photo: longstringunwinding |
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Dance All Night |
226 West Ontario Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 787 4480 http://www.sound-bar.com sound-bar@sound-bar.com |
Crowded, snobbish and a mandatory coat check? But that doesn't deter masses from River North and beyond to dress it up for Sound Bar. The bars (nine in all) serve a heady mix of spirits and the spacious dance floor lures visitors to shake a leg. DJs Dave Seaman and Deep Dish, valet parking, stylish lounge, and a trendy atmosphere make up for the long wait outside. Note: no shorts or sneakers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel P. Uriol |
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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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Lincoln Park Live Music + Club |
2447, N Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 248 8400 http://www.tonicroom.com nicky2congas@yahoo.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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Hip Neighborhood Pub |
1958 West North Avenue Chicago, IL United States +1 773 278 5138 |
Though often advertised as something of a sports bar, this tavern serves up a much loftier atmosphere. The leather chairs and hardwood floors give it a lounge-like feel, so you may feel more inclined to sip wine than chug beer. With all of this said, it is a popular spot for a night out in Wicker Park, and as it is open until 4am, your night out can last even longer. Its devoted patrons can enjoy an expansive selection of music from the corner jukebox, or catch updates on the latest game on the multiple big-screen TVs throughout the room. If hunger strikes, they also serve up lunch, dinner, and pub-grub until 10pm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hot nightclub |
923 West Weed St Chicago, IL 60622 United States +1 312 787 0400 http://www.zentranightclub.com... Rob@ZentraNightclub.com |
In this dark and velvety nightclub extraordinaire, with chain-mail corner booths, couches and lots of sinister red lighting, you cannot go wrong. The patio is dotted with trees strung with Christmas lights and speakers blaring disco and funk. The multicultural theme manifests itself in the belly dancers wiggling around the club and the "hookah girls," who offer you hits from a water pipe (sorry, it's filled with tobacco). The upstairs is always pounding with techno and house music that will leave your eardrums ringing and your nerve endings dulled. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: konkee |
 Photo: thevastdifference.co |