Jedynka, in case you were wondering, is Polish for "one," and the club is certainly singular in attracting Chicago's large crop of emigres and wannabes. Although mainly geared towards the local Polish crowd, Jedynka is also a haven for all who hail from across the Atlantic, along with American kids wanting to relive the hedonistic backpacking treks of their youth.
The club's dress policy (no gym shoes, hats or tank tops) is generally adhered to, resulting in a well-dressed crowd of twenty-somethings. The main room is huge, dominated by an impressive central dance floor flanked by several large bars and anterooms. A grandiose DJ booth looms 30 feet above the packed dance-floor, and is accessible via two ostentatious, curving walkways—which double as a platform for the super-hot to gyrate and flaunt their wares at the throng below. The club also benefits from an excellent sound system and an impressive light show incorporating lasers and three—count 'em, three—giant disco balls.
Saturday is the club's main "dance party," while Friday nights are home to Jedynka's gimmicky (and oversexed) theme nights, including "mini-skirt night," "men's chest night," and "bikini night" (cover $10, free before 10 p.m., both nights). Whether you find such tricks tacky or hilarious is a matter of taste, but bear in mind this is the kind of club that features a naked female torso on the ladies' room door, and a weird holographic nude in one of the chill-out rooms. Those seeking a break from the overheated bods upstairs would be wise to check out the basement area, which is tasteful and intimate without being isolated.
Other theme nights include Wednesday's Polskie Karaoke bash, where you can croon along to a predominantly Polish roster of tunes while downing $3 Okocims; mixed drinks fall in the general $6-$8 club range.
Centerstage Reviewer: Adam Burke