Doesn't Recommend

danielle_p

Joined 6 years ago

Avoid in General. SKIP IT, MATISSE IS NO GOOD. The new owner is taking the place down in flames, which is funny, because he's a fireman. The service lacks (except for the amazing alex), the food isn't much better, and the guy who owns the place has a reputation for being wasted and creeping out (and i mean CREEPING out) girls at only 7 in the evening. The place is unprofessional and ludicris, sometmies you get charged too much or even double charged, and sometimes your bill is what it's suppose to be. You'd be far better off going to any of the other bars in the area.

Recommends

grrr123

Joined 6 years ago

Unbelievable Specials--Awesome Atmosphere. This bar gives you a ritzy atmosphere without breaking your budget. It's the perfect place to start off a night out or chill after work. I particularly enjoy Wednesday night. Amazing chocolate martini's for 3 dollars!! Can't beat it. Also, $2 burgers on Tuesdays along with beer specials. I can't believe you'd rag on this place.

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Intimate and inexpensive Lincoln Park lounge from the owners of Waterhouse, Bluelight and Bowman's.. The Scene
This casual underground lounge consistently packs in low-key, neighborhood 20- and 30-somethings. Red-hued and honorable to its namesake, the dimly lit space is intimate (read: tiny), with a dozen or so tables (low two-tops with velvet banquettes and tall four-seaters) squeezed around the perimeter; larger groups vie for a single booth at back, or crowd the bar. A central fireplace keeps things toasty when necessary, and alternative and light house tunes provide a conversation-friendly soundtrack.

The Draw
The full bar specializes in martinis and white-wine sangria, and the kitchen turns out slightly classier-than-bar-food appetizers, entrees and desserts. Herb-breaded chicken skewers with orange-barbecue sauce and basil-ranch dressing make chicken tender starters respectable. Paninis with traditional or sweet potato fries elevate standard sandwich choices. Though its regular prices are some of the most reasonable around, the little lounge's daily specials are unbeatable.

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kirmick

Joined 9 years ago

Please! Gimme Less Head. Although the place is nice (average) and the waitstaff friendly (average), the one reason my honey and I went to Matisse was for the $2 Guinness special. Whooops! As much as I enjoy a good cascade, by the time the huge 2 to 3 inch head went down we had about 10 oz of beer left -- not much of a special. When you're an average bar, you gotta bring people in some way, but -- believe it or not -- giving extra head won't do it. BTW, the actual price was $2.25 ... were they charging extra for the head?

Doesn't Recommend

duff51

Joined 10 years ago

Club Pretentia. The swanky Euro feel might have you feeling like an elite in a underground club. But don't let it fool you! Rude bartenders and plenty of silicone might be what you like, but for me and many others it means a Euro trash feel in an inept underground meat locker.

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hazellove21

Joined 10 years ago

Seeing Red. This garden level bar is a hidden treasure with great feel. You will feel as though you stepped into a painting. This is a great neighborhood bar.

Recommends

henrykrinkle

Joined 11 years ago

Almost There. Could be a very cool place. I like the fireplace, the music, and the bartenders were friendly. The only drawbacks are that it's a bit awkward near the front door. There are chairs there and it's a bit frustrating trying to get by. Also, there aren't many places to sit. If these problems are worked out, this place will be a good place to hang out on a regular basis.