The Bottom Lounge is an excellent place to see what the cool kids are wearing these days. Located right off the Belmont Red Line stop, it's one of many places in Chicago to hear the bands those sellouts on the radio can't handle. Actually, the bands are the best part, and really the only reason to stop by.
More of a concert hall than a lounge, the venue is divided in two, with a bar and handful of tables in one room and a big, open space with a stage in the other. The walls are coated in flyers for upcoming shows throughout the city; the rest is pretty bare, with concrete and bricks. A jukebox is there for when the band takes a break or finishes or isn't worth listening to; there's really not much else to the place.
The time you'll have at the Bottom Lounge is entirely up to the performers on stage. There's usually a cover, and shows range from all ages to 21+, so plan accordingly and check your local listings. Private parties are also available, if you have an invitation-only event coming up. The bar is pretty well stocked, and there are a handful of beers on tap; drinks are reasonably priced, though not cheap, and fine for what they are.
The music is usually pretty good, so if you're in the mood to experiment it certainly wouldn't be the worst place to try, but it helps to know who you're seeing to ensure a nice evening. Like any other concert, you'll go home smelling like cigarettes and sweat, two signs of a good time.
Reviewed By: Mac McCormick
