Bordered by the Loop and Bucktown, Wicker Park is a hotspot for haute lounges. Here are some spots ideal for dining or lounging.
Gothic Glam
With tree-trunk stools, stained-wood walls adorned with white antlers, and top-shelf bottles housed in illuminated arches, the 2,000-square-foot Empire Liquors, open since September 2006, channels an enchanted forest. The refreshingly original decor is scored with a rotating soundtrack of hip-hop, rock, and house spun by a live DJ. Hard Italian Âsodas are the lounge’s sweet signature concoction.Storybook Charm
A fairy-tale environment—replete with periwinkle walls, crystal chandeliers, and oversize chairs that seem plucked from the Mad Hatter’s tea party—creates a Âremoved-from-reality vibe at the Violet Hour. Behind the bar, expert mixologists shake up critic-approved drinks. Available for full and partial buyouts, the clandestine, whimsical lounge is divided into three salons and can hold 80.
In the Meantime
In July, Between Boutique Café and Lounge began offering shareable plates of global comfort fare. Belgian meatballs and rum-spiked bubble teas are served in a sultry 1,800-square-foot environment bathed in red hues. Feathery chandeliers hang above, and fringed red curtains enshroud semiprivate booths.
Gothic Glam
With tree-trunk stools, stained-wood walls adorned with white antlers, and top-shelf bottles housed in illuminated arches, the 2,000-square-foot Empire Liquors, open since September 2006, channels an enchanted forest. The refreshingly original decor is scored with a rotating soundtrack of hip-hop, rock, and house spun by a live DJ. Hard Italian Âsodas are the lounge’s sweet signature concoction.Storybook Charm
A fairy-tale environment—replete with periwinkle walls, crystal chandeliers, and oversize chairs that seem plucked from the Mad Hatter’s tea party—creates a Âremoved-from-reality vibe at the Violet Hour. Behind the bar, expert mixologists shake up critic-approved drinks. Available for full and partial buyouts, the clandestine, whimsical lounge is divided into three salons and can hold 80.
In the Meantime
In July, Between Boutique Café and Lounge began offering shareable plates of global comfort fare. Belgian meatballs and rum-spiked bubble teas are served in a sultry 1,800-square-foot environment bathed in red hues. Feathery chandeliers hang above, and fringed red curtains enshroud semiprivate booths.
Empire Liquors
Photo: Jason Soto
Empire Liquors
Photo: Jason Soto
Violet Hour
Photo: Michelle Litvin
Between Boutique Café and Lounge
Photo: Courtesy of Between Boutique Café and Lounge
