Edition: Holiday Shopping
Chicago Nightlife: Lounging Around
Author: Audarshia Townsend
Sometimes you just want to chill out. You know, grab a few friends and go to a place where bartenders shake up the perfect cocktail, deejays spin music beyond the usual Top 40 fare, and the setting inspires you to feel sexy—even when you’re not on your best game. With so many chill spots to choose from in the city, we’ve plucked out some of the very best to suit your needs.
CLIMAX
Tucked between nondescript businesses in River North, the bar bustles with cutting-edge Euro music, occasional Cirque du Soleiltype performers, celebrity deejays and a decadent list of champagne cocktails. (324 W. Chicago Ave., 312-280-9800).
LAVA LOUNGE
You’re in store for something completely different at this neighborhood joint where deejays spin loose reggae and offbeat tunes. Don’t dress up; this crowd is hipster headquarters. (1270 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-342-5282).
LUMEN
The Warehouse District bar feels like a European hot spot, from the dapper doormen to the futuristic décor inside. But don’t let that scare you away; this stylish crowd is approachable and the drinks are surprisingly inexpensive. Music—coming out of one of the best sound systems in town—ranges from old-school R&B to current hits. (839 W. Fulton Market, 312-733-2222).
NV PENTHOUSE LOUNGE
That’s right, the tiny VIP hideaway is an actual penthouse located on the top floor of an office building. And the sleek, stark white interior, sweeping views of the city and heated cabanas will seduce you into ordering bottle service and settling in for the night. (116 W. Hubbard St., 312-329-9960).
RED KIVA
Deep, sexy house and Latin grooves attract a mighty diverse crowd right after work and late night. But it’s the sunken lounge area—perfect for couple canoodling—that’s the showpiece at this West Loop lounge. (1108 W. Randolph St., 312-226-5577).
THE VIOLET HOUR
If you’re looking for conversation without the yelling, you might want to head to Wicker Park’s most sophisticated lounge that raises the bar when it comes to cocktail culture. Ice is served in eight different forms—depending on the glass or cocktail—and they’re even making their own bitters. No deejay, but the music is chill enough for you to nod to. (1520 N. Damen Ave., 773-252-1500).
CRIMSON LOUNGE
The new Sax Hotel’s first-floor lounge is a burst of color (crimson, of course) and a big draw for after-work and late-night crowds. They’re coming for rock star deejays, upscale bar food, and the ample seating of banquettes and booths. (333 N. Dearborn St., 312-923-2473).
RELAX
Simply put, it’s a rock ‘n’ roll bar with lots of swanky edges and a dressed-down crowd chowing down on handcrafted burgers and fries. Deejays tend to crank up the music, so be prepared to scream across the table. (1450 W. Chicago Ave., 312-666-6006).
