Underground Wonder Bar

09/11/08

Best Live music in Chicago!

by njs29 at Citysearch

This is my favorite live music spot in Chicago. Owned and operated by Lonnie Walker for nearly 20 years, Underground Wonder Bar features blues, jazz, funk, R&B, and folk. They live by the motto "Live 365" b/c there is live music there 365 days a year! the place is small, but the atmosphere is just what I expected for a local jazz/music club.... dimly lit with small tables close together, almost making the audience feel like one big family...Overall, this is a fabulous undiscovered gem... and that is what gives it its charm. Regualrs dominate the place b/c once people go, they almost always want to go back again... The acts I have seen here have been great, but if you go for the first time, try to go on a Wednesday, Friday or Saturday when Lonnie Walker and her Big Bad A$$ Co. Band are playing... her energy and enthusiasm make you realize that she really loves what she does which is why she created Undground Wonder Bar in the first place. Other suggestions for live music: Howl at the Moon, Buddy Guy's Legends

Avoid: House of Blues (tourist trap and music is not good); If you want blues, go to Buddy Guy's or "Blues Chicago"

07/22/07

Legendary and fun fun fun!

by abbeyroad85 at Citysearch

My boyfriend and I went here based on the reviews from this site and we were not dissapointed. In fact it exceeded my expectations in every way. The place is definitely a dive, but that only adds to its charm. The music was great (Lonnie and her big a** company band are fantastic!) If you can make it to the 5 a.m. last call I applaud you- their specialty martinis are designed to f*** you up. Plan to take a cab home from this one!

• Pros: Lonnie!, late night hours
• Cons: You might not get much done the next day!

11/17/06

Best atmosphere

by ppeter54 at Citysearch

I have been going to this bar for years. I never travel to Chicago without going here. Lonnie is a fantastic muscian and I love the small intimate setting. This place is the BEST

10/16/06

Most fun I've ever had in a Chicago blues/jazz club

by paule123 at Citysearch

We were lucky and got to see Lonie and her band playing Saturday night. She really gets the crowd into it, and there were fantastic solos from each of the band members. UWB puts the tourist traps like BLUE Chicago to shame and has a much more intimate feel than larger venues like Buddy Guys or Kingston Mines. Highly recommended.

04/06/04

Late-night jazz and blues club locals like to think only they know about.

by Contributor at Citysearch

As area bars announce last call, this one's just warming up, welcoming late-night lovers of jazz and blues. It's the kind of place where you could stumble into a jam session with some celebrity players. Artists such as Liza Minelli, Herbie Hancock and Joe Sample have sat in with co-owner and featured performer Lonie Walker (nowadays, however, local musicians are more likely). A pianist and singer, Walker performs with the Big Bad Ass Company Band every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night.

07/09/03

stylin'

by krp2nte at Citysearch

In a city where jazz lives and breathes, this is the epicenter. Live performances and an atmosphere that represents the city like no other. You must stop here. "WonderBar!!!!"

• Pros: romantic, friendly, eclectic crowd

02/10/03

It's The Real Chicago

by cnote100 at Citysearch

This place is what Chicago is all about. Great music in small cozy atmosphere. Be sure to go there on one of Lonnie Walker's nights and you'll see why so many people feel this place is amazing. It's not cheap, but a $10 cover and moderately proced drinks aren't even an issue after an hour or so there. Bring a date or a small group to show people one of Chicago's hidden gems.

• Pros: Music, Crowd, Lively

01/17/03

best kept secret

by kctoto at Citysearch

love the place. friendly, cozy, intimate. would recommend it for almost everyone. living in the neighbourhood makes it easy to stop by at any late hour knowing you will listen to some warm music and a have a nice drink. everyone i have introduced to Wonderbar has been impressed by the place. A must.