Laugh Factory

A new branch of Hollywood’s world-famous comedy venue, the Laugh Factory opened in Chicago in January 2012. Owned by Jamie Masada, the venue’s Hollywood parent is known for hosting some of the most famous comics on the planet, and the new Chicago outpost is clearly not going to lag far behind.

Open seven nights a week, comedy shows at the Laugh Factory Chicago feature nightly live comedy from local and up-and-coming comics to some of the biggest names out there. From Bil Dwyer to Kevin Nealon to all of the writers from Conan, Laugh Factory delivers sidesplitting laughs on a regular basis.

The venue itself is sizeable for a comedy club, with a capacity of 377. Small bistro tables crowd near the stage, while rail seating and booths provide additional seating in back. There is a full-service bar that enforces a strict two-drink minimum, as well as a limited kitchen serving snacks. An upstairs balcony offers additional seating, along with a soundproof VIP room for industry types and big-wigs. The stage itself is punctuated by a comically large Laugh Factory sign.

With owner Jamie Masada’s business and industry smarts, Laugh Factory Chicago is bound to be one of Chicago’s premier stand-up comedy clubs, providing a welcome change from the sketch comedy scene that has overwhelmed the city for decades.