The Underground

River North, Chicago –

With its military theme and unmarked basement level entrance, The Underground nightclub takes its aura of exclusivity seriously, which suits the see-and-be-seen clientele just fine.

Bottle service and celebrity sightings await the stylish patrons who satisfy the laser-eyed bouncer and then head down to a cavernous bomb shelter, where DJs spin from an armor-plated booth and candlelit ammunition crates pull duty as tables for top-shelf cocktails and snacks.

A massive LED world map in one corner could easily be mistaken for a war room fixture were it not for the upscale girlfriend groups and club kids partying with a bottle of Hennessy on the elevated area in front of it.

Massive pillars dotted with radioactive symbols break up the space, while the scattering of supple leather couches are claimed by early birds and groups with reservations, waiting patiently as buxom waitresses in tight military gear make their way over with plates of mini-burgers.

Though there’s no central dance area, there are plenty of nooks large enough to accommodate the sexy ladies and lucky guys who want to shake it up a bit before heading to the two crowded bars for another round of army-themed martinis.

Normally packed wall to wall by midnight, the club really bursts at the seams on theme nights, which range from costume parties to fashion shows.

A select clientele combined with unique events and innovative drinks makes The Underground a distinguished club worth saluting.