Of all the bar-suffixed nightclubs in Chicago, only Spy Bar holds the possibility of international intrigue. While you're weighing the odds of whether there are any genuine spies lurking inside, you might want to take a look around. A dramatic $1.3 million renovation has transformed the 4,200-square-foot belowground space into a luxurious, modern hotspot.

Dark leather booths and exposed beams and brick walls give the place an industrial vibe, which jives well with the new state-of-the-art sound and light systems. The drink offerings have been updated, too. Look for inventive seasonal drinks from mixologist John Kinder. Bottles of champagne (the new menu features an extensive list) come paired with truffles by Vosges Haut Chocolat.

For a taste of the old Spy Bar, check out Vintage Thursdays, when DJs Victor R and Nathan Scott spin classic house tracks till 4 a.m. Saturday nights draw a suburban crowd and Sundays feature $7 cocktails and mashup DJs.

Whatever the night, be forewarned that door policies have gotten stricter with the club's renovation. All-guy groups or improper footwear will be swiftly turned away, so prepare a covert op infiltration strategy just in case.

Centerstage Reviewer: Amanda Nyren