Crimson Lounge
When you think about trendy, swanky clubs, you probably think of New York City or Los Angeles. But Crimson Lounge shows that Chicago can't be left out of the high-class mix.
About a block east of Flatwater, this Victorian-inspired lounge in the Hotel Sax Chicago (formerly the House of Blues Hotel) is a much darker space than the hotel's pristine lobby that leads into it. As you would expect from the name, there are deep, rich reds everywhere: dark wood and textured walls, blood-red rugs, walnut floors, ornate light fixtures, old-fashioned portraits and oil paintings, rich fabrics, period-piece furniture' Just hearing the description makes me feel all warm and relaxed. There's a touch of aromatherapy involved too, as the bar's signature scent (designed specifically for Crimson Lounge) fills the area: a mix of coriander, nutmeg, chamomile, and other spices.
The clientele here is just as classy as the space is, and most of them will be sipping on top-shelf cocktails. No worries though, there's also a good selection of beers available for a reasonable price. Of course, no one likes to drink on an empty stomach, so the bar menu offers a variety of small dishes (catered by neighbor Bin 36) including popcorn with truffle oil and 'sliders' (mini-burgers) with frites.
Unfortunately, some of that swank can get to people's heads, and there are occasional bouts of haughty attitude among the patrons and/or staff. However, if you bring some excellent company and enjoy the quality concoctions, you'll be having too much fun to even notice.
Crimson Lounge c/o Hotel Sax: 333 N Dearborn St; 312-923-2473
Daily: 4:00 p.m. ' 2:00 a.m.
Street parking, pay lots, and valet available
Public trans: Bus # 22, 29, 36, 62, 65, 134, 135, 136
Orange/Pink/Green/Purple/Brown Line train (State)
Red Line train (Lake)
http://www.hotelsaxchicago.com/
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POSTED IN: Bars and Clubs, Hotels
2 opinions for Crimson Lounge
scott
Feb 29, 2008 at 12:40 pm
I had the pleasure of staying at Hotel Sax Chicago last weekend (www.hotelsaxchicago.com), home of the Crimson Lounge. I was blown away by the room, people and meeting the brother of an original Blues Brother, Jim Beluishi. Ah chicago.
A Mano Hands Out Great Italian
Aug 15, 2008 at 6:00 am
[…] complements their food. The folks at Bin 36 put together a contemporary trattoria (next door to Crimson Lounge) named A Mano, thereby creating an Italian menu that would balance well with their […]
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