The Underground
(312) 644-7600
56 W Illinois St
(at Dearborn Street)
Chicago,
IL
60610
41.8909
-87.63
Neighborhoods: Near North Side, Central
Hours:
Thu, Fri 9pm-4am
Sat 9pm-5am
Parking:
Street; Valet
Last updated 1.30.09
What People Are Saying About The Underground
The Editor
Fred Schlatter
Citysearch
The fun starts outside where bouncers sporting tactical gear wield clipboards, patrons clamoring for their attention. Stairs down are clad in concrete board. More doors get more costumed guards. The room is divided by banks of lounge seating complete with ammo box tables, one raised section more private than others featuring a dramatic backlit world map. Disney effects aside, the industrial look works when the inspired hip-hop remixes are cranked up and the fashionable crowd takes cover.
User Reviews
tiffstar
June 25, 2009
This establishment is the BEST at playing the game of nightlife politics. Everyone bitches about how hard it is to get in, the 70/30 female:male ratio, and the "dbag" doormen. They make their own rules because they can. If you want an enjoyable relaxed scene to drink and dance with some friends in a non-superficial environment-- mostly ANY nightclub is not for you, especially Underground. Chances are you've heard about Underground before you attempt to attend. Don't bother going if the scene and the people that run it don't sound like your cup of tea. Everyone that goes out tries to look their best and be the "hottest babe" or "biggest b aller" out there. In such a shallow nightlife arena, don't expect routine equality standards to apply. You are asking to and will be judged. Money talks in this scene if you are a guy, plan ahead and reserve a table. Also, let's face it-- looks matter. Its not fair, but its life. Their reputation wouldn't be as pronounced if they let anyone and everyone in, and half of the clientèle wouldn't want to go if that were the case. Underground is a great place to party. Great music and overall fun atmosphere.
read full review
JohnnyV
May 28, 2009
I had such a funny experience at this stupid place. I brought a client of mine (Hip-Hop mogul "Chuck D" of Public Enemy) to Underground as it was purported to be "The Hottest Nightclub in Chicago." We were told it would be a ten minute wait...That wait later increased to forty minutes. After about 15 I got frustrated and asked the bouncer what the deal was. He said that the people I was with were "old" and "that guy will have to remove his hat" (pointing at Chuck D) before we were even going to be considered to come in. I asked him if he knew who "that guy" was, he laughed and said he didn't care and proceeded to let in several more 18-20 y/o girls in - Which is fine, but those chicks aren't spending any money in that place, just adding to the coke-infested bathroom scene that has the CPD's undercovers buzzing around the inside all the time.
read full reviewThe Details on The Underground
Look Good:
All staff wears either fatigues, khaki dresses with tactical belts or tailored officer suits, caps and all. You might want to skip the paramilitary gear though and go for something fashionable, but not too dressy.
On the Menu:
The food menu covers all major bar food groups: kobe sliders, Bavarian pretzels and toasted Pop Tarts.
Know Before You Go:
Don't expect any signage; Underground thrives on its own "insider" appeal. Here's a hint: It's in the alley behind Ben Pao where all the commotion is. In other words--it's the old Harry's Velvet Lounge.
Look Good:
All staff wears either fatigues, khaki dresses with tactical belts or tailored officer suits, caps and all. You might want to skip the paramilitary gear and go for something fashionable, but not too dressy.
Know Before You Go:
Don't expect any signage; Underground thrives on its own "insider" appeal. Here's a hint: It's in the alley behind Ben Pao where all the commotion is.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Cash, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Bar & Club Type of Music:
Techno & Industrial, DJ - Electronica, Hip-Hop & Rap, DJ - Rap
Bar & Club Special Features:
Minimum Age:
21
