Tag Archives: Marina city

From Classic Blues to Progressive DJs at House of Blues

Tucked away in an area that oozes a “Gotham City” vibe (and yes, The Dark Knight was filmed in Chi-town), Chicago’s House of Blues stands as a gigantic blue-lit seashell (in truth, it was modeled after “Estavovski” Opera House in Prague) in between the sexy Hotel Sax, the delicious wine bar and restaurant Bin 36, and just off of Marina City.

house of blues chicagoInside, the mish-mash of bright decor and blues memorabilia houses a restaurant full of hearty home cookin’ plates of goodness, an area large of enough for 1,000 dancin’ bodies and an intimate stage – perfect for grabbing great views of your favorite stars. Having hosted a long list of greats since its opening in 1996 like B.B. King, The Who, Pearl Jam and Al Green, the “House” stays true to its roots by housing a box full of mud from the Delta Mississippi underneath its stage – how’s that for a fun fact?

Night after night, Chicagoans and tourists count on this classic for the best of yesterday’s, today’s and tomorrow’s hot artists. And yes club kids – that means you too! Plenty of world famous DJs also adorn the HOB Chicago stage!

Insider’s Tip: If you love the HOB Chicago so much, become a member of the Foundation Room, a unique bar full of 300 year old international artifacts, three “prayer rooms” a full bar, dinner menu and great people-watching all attached to the main room. No Member’s Only Jacket included, unfortunately.

Don’t Break Up Over Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse

Yes, it’s true that there are several Smith & Wollensky Steakhouses throughout the US, but only one can claim fame for hosting Jennifer Aniston and hometown Chi-guy Vince Vaughn in the mega-hit The Break-up in 2006 (the restaurant is definitely recognizable in its break-out role).

With its killer views Picture 13and location in “Marina City,” Chicago’s Smith & Wollensky is proudly perched above the Chicago River in the heart of the city and surrounded by big players like Hotel Sax and the House of Blues. Smith & Wollensky is the ultimate place for a date, a steak, and/or just a glass of red.

The original location in NYC opened its doors back in ’77 and was the brainchild of the same guy who brought us T.G.I. Friday’s. But fear not, none of the cheesiness can be found in this venture. Instead, its all about the upper echelon of steaks with The Chicago Tribune’s food critic calling it “perhaps the best sirloin of my life.” The classic interior design of dark wood, shining brass, polished wood floors and iconic Chicago views is icing on the, er, steak.

Come once and you’ll come again – with or without the person you originally came with.