This past weekend, Religion Nightclub opened on the third floor of River North's sprawling Club 720. Inspired by a cathedral, Religion is filled with churchly decorative touches like century-old stained-glass windows and a pulpit-style DJ booth. Divided into two levels—the lower floor can accommodate 200 guests, while the upper level can comfortably hold 100—the entire space was recently bought out by the National Black MBA Association.
On the first floor, which is presided over by the DJ booth, a spacious dance floor can be filled with highboys for a cocktail reception. Along the back wall, purple and black banquettes sit atop a raised platform and that can seat roughly 35 guests. At the foot of the staircase leading up to the second floor, a projection screen built into the venue's exposed brick wall measures about eight by 10 feet and allows for DVD hookup.The upstairs loft area, called Altar, features a gold-painted bar, along with booth and banquette seating for 50. Black crystal chandeliers and wall sconces add a Gothic vibe.
Although the club doesn't typically offer food, private parties can elect to order catering from the Spread (another venue from the team that operates Religion). Prepared by chef Matt Hanck, who formerly cooked at the W Chicago City Center, menu options include Italian beef, buttermilk fried chicken, and an assortment of pastas.
On the first floor, which is presided over by the DJ booth, a spacious dance floor can be filled with highboys for a cocktail reception. Along the back wall, purple and black banquettes sit atop a raised platform and that can seat roughly 35 guests. At the foot of the staircase leading up to the second floor, a projection screen built into the venue's exposed brick wall measures about eight by 10 feet and allows for DVD hookup.The upstairs loft area, called Altar, features a gold-painted bar, along with booth and banquette seating for 50. Black crystal chandeliers and wall sconces add a Gothic vibe.
Although the club doesn't typically offer food, private parties can elect to order catering from the Spread (another venue from the team that operates Religion). Prepared by chef Matt Hanck, who formerly cooked at the W Chicago City Center, menu options include Italian beef, buttermilk fried chicken, and an assortment of pastas.
Religion
Photo: KryStyle Photography
The new River North nightclub comprises two levels.
Photo: KryStyle Photography
The 15-foot DJ booth is modeled after a pulpit.
Photo: KryStyle Photography
Banquettes along the back wall of the lower level seat about 35.
Photo: BizBash
Reclaimed stained-glass windows decorate the space.
Photo: BizBash
A faux organ hangs on the wall behind the DJ booth.
Photo: BizBash
