Choose your location
Wed / Apr 14
Party Earth Review Science fiction buffs will easily recall that “Rodan” was the name of a mutated pterosaur made famous in the Godzilla movies. The refined hipster patrons at this upscale lounge of the same name might be blessed with this... ... read full review
1530 North Milwaukee Avenue
Chicago, IL, 60622
Blue Line: Damen
773-276-7036
M–Th, Su 6pm–2am, F 5pm–2am, Sa 5pm–3am; Kitchen open daily until 1am
Wicker Park / Bucktown, Chicago –
Science fiction buffs will easily recall that “Rodan” was the name of a mutated pterosaur made famous in the Godzilla movies.
The refined hipster patrons at this upscale lounge of the same name might be blessed with this morsel of movie trivia as well, seeing as the back half of the venue incorporates multiple audio/visual installations, including classic showings of retro sci-fi and fantasy films.
Dim and minimalist in design, the décor features clean Birchwood walls, an open concrete floor, and clusters of suede banquettes and ottomans where vintage fashionistas, young professionals, and artsy types settle in to chat over delectable plates of Asian-inspired bistro cuisine and weekly udon specials.
Quieter during dinner hours, Rodan turns up the volume later in the evening when DJs spin house, reggae, and ambient tunes accompanied by a diverse mishmash of original visual projections from local artists on the wall behind them.
Monthly triple-feature movie screenings, meanwhile, draw a big college crowd that flocks in ready to down signature cocktails like champagne and lychee fruit during the show.
Creative and easygoing, Rodan promises a unique and low-key night out that will definitely be less hectic than destroying Tokyo.
Stylish college students, audio and visual artists, and trendy young professionals, mid-20s to late 30s.
DJs spin a diverse mix including reggae and hip-hop. Live Jazz on Tuesdays, monthly audio-visual performances on Living Sunday. Android Dub Flash Ina Babylon Star Crash presents a triple feature of space-oriented films from the late 70s and early 80s.
Asian-inspired bistro fare featuring the popular togarashi burger (red peppers with sweet and sour mayo) and edamame hummus.
Small plates $4–$10, entrées $9–$15. Beer $5–$25, wine $7–$10/glass or $28–$40/bottle, cocktails $7–$13, sake $6–$22.
Nice casual: jeans and button-downs for guys, funky cocktail dresses and glittery tops for girls.
Living Sundays for an artsy crowd into the music scene, or Fridays and Saturdays for a weekend bar crowd and a mellower environment.
Crocodile Lounge (1540 North Milwaukee Avenue) a few doors north has a funkier vibe with frequent live music and signature cocktail bowls.
Rodan User Reviews