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Wed / Jan 27
Party Earth Review Although named for its location at the corner nook of three intersecting streets, Elbo Room could just as easily refer to what is not available inside, considering the crowds that pack in for the venue’s live music offerings... ... read full review
2871 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
Brown, Purple Express Lines: Belmont, Diversey, Wellington; Red Line: Belmont
773-549-5549
M–F, Su 7pm–2am, Sa 7pm–3am
Lakeview, Chicago –
Although named for its location at the corner nook of three intersecting streets, Elbo Room could just as easily refer to what is not available inside, considering the crowds that pack in for the venue’s live music offerings seven nights a week.
Beat up booths line the industrial gray brick walls on the ground floor, including one with an arcade classic built right into the table that ensures a round of beer often devolves into an extended tournament of Ms. Pac-Man till the wee hours.
Those who want a trip down memory lane can grab a spot at the bar, illuminated by bright red floodlights and decorated mostly by photographs of the rowdy patrons who have passed through since the venue’s early days in the 1980s.
Once the music starts, the rockers, hipsters, reggae buffs, and jazz lovers make their way to the small stage in the cocktail lounge, or head down a poster-plastered stairwell to the basement main stage, where the floor swarms with a diverse bunch of dedicated fans as varied as the music.
Vinyl couches and booths scattered around a second bar provide shadowy hideouts for couples and friends looking to escape the sweaty revelry, though most of the music lovers prefer to elbow their way into the fray in front of the stage.
A great place to get a taste of the city’s incredible music scene, Elbo Room is a prime choice for music buffs, whether they want to chill out to some quieter tunes or rock out to the blasting beats of a band.
Indie and underground rockers, grungy hipsters, jazz and reggae lovers, and varied music enthusiasts, early 20s to early 40s.
Live original music nightly, including jazz, indie, rock, and reggae. Free board games available. Old-school arcade game.
Frozen pizza. ATM. Free charging station for cell phones.
Cover charge usually $7–$10+. Frozen pizza $10. Beer $1.50–$18, wine $7, mixed drinks $5–$10, shots $3–$6.
Rocker, indie, and hipster casual: flannel and plaid button-downs, ripped jeans, band shirts, blouses, studded belts, lots of Converse.
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for the biggest and rowdiest crowds.
Beat Kitchen (2100 West Belmont Avenue) features live music and comedy acts and a diverse American menu.
Elbo Room User Reviews