Suits and slinky dresses are making a return to the social scene, thankfully combating the overabundance of too-small tube tops (ladies, you know who you are) and trucker caps (so out). Of course, when you’re all dressed-up, you certainly can’t go to Hooters. Instead, check out these spots.
Y
While the club kids wait hours in line outside at neighboring Sound-bar, the smart and smartly-dressed go to Y. The uber-hip lounge caters to a jet-setting crowd with caviar-stuffed olives and pricey bottle service. They may be shelling out a $20 cover and hefty drink prices, but Y regulars enjoy attentive service, sleek decor and a DJ spinning house and techno. Before you slap your dancing shoes on, keep in mind that space is limited and is reserved mostly for lounging. 224 W. Ontario St. 312-274-1880.
Fulton Street Lounge
Nestled among the warehouses of the West Loop (and right next to high-end dining spot Follia), this spot welcomes pretty people to hang in the evening. The open setting allows crowds to build without getting cramped, and the minimalist modern decor adds class but not haughtiness. Sit at the bar, enjoy comfortable plush seating at low, game-style tables by the windows or chill on the patio. 955 W. Fulton Market, 312-942-9500.
The Whiskey Bar & Grill
Power suits, unite. Owned by Cindy Crawford’s hubby, it’s no shocker that this Gold Coast hot spot attracts an abundance of model-type women in search of Armani-clad men to pay the Barneys’ bills. Enjoy a wide selection of top-shelf liquor, while relishing some prime people-watching both in the bar and outside on Rush Street. 1015 N. Rush St. 312-475-0300.
Tantrum
South Loop professionals flock to this swanky lounge every night of the week. A large martini selection is available for both the James Bond classic fans and the Carrie Bradshaw fruity-drink-of-the-week disciples. Despite the Rat Pack look–complete with classic woodwork, molded ceiling tiles and plush seating–the bar attracts all sorts, so don’t be surprised to see Hugo Boss flirting with Paul Frank on any given night. 1023 S. State St. 312-939-9160.
NoMi
Get a sky-high perspective on things at the Park Hyatt’s 7th floor NoMi. Overlooking Michigan Avenue, the ultra-posh bar has wenge wood tables, rosewood floor, etched metal wall panels and designer light fixtures and decor. Although pricey, NoMi is probably one of the few places in Chicago that can serve both an apple martini–sans Pucker, mind you–and a snifter of 125-year-old cognac. 800 N. Michigan Ave. 312-239-4030.
