Letter From the Editor A few issues ago I lamented about how bad a year 2009 was for me and as a result I came into 2010 in search of a renewed sense of purpose. I knew at the time that this new year would involve major decisions that could possibly lead to major changes. Well, less than two months into this new decade a major decision has indeed been made by me and the resulting major changes are that I will be moving a time zone away westward and that I will no longer be the Assistant Editor at BOI Magazine. Although I am very much looking forward to the next chapter in my life, I know already that I will tremendously miss living in Chicago and working here at BOI. Despite somewhat accidentally becoming an editor here, my nearly three-year stewardship of the magazine’s content has been a fun, challenging and rewarding experience. While it has indeed been a difficult environment for print media in recent times, I am extremely proud to have been a part of a team here at BOI that managed to put out a fairly consistent and improving product every two weeks. The magazine is as healthy as it has been in many years and is poised to grow and to be an even more significant force in Chicago this coming year. I’ll have to watch that growth and success from afar, but I’ll do so with a big smile on my face knowing I helped lay down and strengthen the foundation for it. As I depart from BOI, I want to shout out a very loud “Thank You!” to the readers who picked up the magazine every fortnight as well as to the advertisers who have supported the magazine. Also, I want to publicly express my gratitude to Mike Macharello, publisher of BOI, and to my co-workers here at BOI. Working with you all was a tremendous experience filled, thankfully, with more ups than downs. I wish you all the greatest success in the future. So long and farewell, Michael Pleasants Assistant Editor
3708 N. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60613 773.975.0264 boieditorial@aol.com Publisher/Editor Assistant Editor & Content
Mike Macharello Michael Pleasants
Layout & Design JR Garcia
Roberto Balderas
Advertising Bill Gubrud, Manager Freddie Bain Korey Neibarger
bill@boimagzine.com freddie@boimagazine.com korey@boimagazine.com
Photographers Freddie Bain Korey Neibarger
Tim Hite - MTMChicago Frank Failing
Editorial Contributors Dennis Michaels ChicagoPride.com
DJ Plez
VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com BOI Magazine, Inc. © 2000−2010 All rights reserved
spring fashion spring fashion (continued) cram fashion spring shopping spree dining: delivery Restaurant guide IN THE Groove IN THE KNOW, ON THE GO In the know (continued) BARS & CLUBS DIRECTORY
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hile men’s fashion styles don’t vary as often or as wildly as women’s, there are still plenty of changes from year to year to take note of. In order to remain fashion forward – as many BOI readers are – it makes sense to pay attention to what’s “in” this coming season, and thus here we present just a few spring fashion items from some of your favorite designers.
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By Dennis Michaels
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don’t teach or attend school, but I still very much appreciate the practicality of Spring Break. For me, it’s a week-long stretch of time where I get to go some place on vacation. I’m still not sure where I’m going this year on my Spring Break, but that won’t stop me from shopping for clothes to take with me. There are several stores in Chicago that help round out my wardrobe: some of them are local in nature while others have national and global reputations. They all serve a purpose and are stops on my annual Spring Shopping Spree. Bonnie & Clyde’s 1751 W. Division St | 773.235.2680 bonnie-clydes.net When it comes to clothing, Bonnie & Clyde’s offers exclusive lines from both up-and-coming and established designers, including exclusive first looks from Project Runway’s Jeffrey Sebelia and Christian Siriano. Without a doubt, Bonnie & Clyde’s is one of the most fashion forward shops in town and a great place to get cool tops such as this “SoloT” from Nice Collective. Universal Gear 3153 N. Broadway | 773.296.1090 universalgear.com I’ve been a customer here for years and they never fail to have clothing that appeals to me. They specialize in contemporary men’s fashion and feature a wide variety of offerings from an array of popular designers. They also have a great selection of accessories including these Black Fairway Sunglasses. Cupid’s Treasures 3519 N Halsted | 773.348.3884 Believe it or not, Cupid’s is one of the biggest retailers of designer swimsuits and underwear in the city. They carry brands that Boystown boys love to wear such as Pistol Pete, Andrew Christian, Ginch Gonch, and Go Softwear.
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SKiNSTiNCT Water Tower Place (845 N. Michigan Ave.) | 312.202.0708 3343 N. Broadway St. | 773.857.6900 5135 N. Clark St. | 773.506.7343 www.skinstinct.com When I first heard about their “eco-friendly” fashions, I thought it was silly. Boy, was I wrong! This hugely successful clothing, skin care, and home accents store has some of the most stylish and comfortable clothes around, including a very cool assortment of printed T-shirts. It’s not just the spring time when I go shopping at SKiNSTiNCT. His Stuff
5314 N Clark St # 1, | 773. 989.9111 3162 N Broadway St, | 773.281.6111 hisstuffchicago.com I never skip this place, which as the name suggests specializes in men’s clothing and accessories. This twostore operation carries designer labels such as Hugo Boss Red Line, Energie, Nobis, and Tretorn shoes. Akira 643 W Diversey Pkwy. | 773.404.5826 akirachicago.com When I’m looking for jeans with an impressive name on the label (G Star, True Religion, or Diesel just to name a few) I usually find what I’m looking for at this hip and popular Lakeview retailer. I can also find sportswear here, including fashions from Ben Sherman, French Connection, 7 Diamonds, and Project Raw. For this year’s spree I picked up a pair of comfortable Mavi jeans.
Dining Feature: Deliveries
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t’s been a long day at work, there’s no food ready to cook in your refrigerator and the meal that night most likely will be of the delivery nature. What type of cuisine do you want and how fast can it be delivered? Here’s a sampling of some of the best delivery options in the area from which to choose. Andies 1467 W Montrose | 773.348.0654; 5253 N Clark | 773.784.8616 AndiesRes.com Specializing in Mediterranean and vegetarian cuisine, specialties include kabobs, gyros, and poultry dishes. Desserts include a very tasty baklava. Chicago’s Pizza 3006 N Sheffield | 773.755.4030; 3114 N Lincoln |773.477.2777; 1919 W Montrose | 773.348.1700 www.chicagos-pizza.com Delivering pizza as well as sandwiches and pasta entrees, the latest delivery available (until 5am) from Old Town to Rogers Park fuels their popularity. Crisp 2940 N Broadway | 773.697.7610 CrispOnline.com This eatery specializes in Korean fried chicken, a style that produces moist, succulent, well-seasoned chicken with a crispy non-greasy exterior. They offer three different types of sauces for the chicken or you can just get it Plain Jane style.
Chocolate Fudge Cake. Joy’s Noodles 3257 N Broadway | 773.327.8330 joysnoodlesandrice.com This Boystown favorite has some of the best valued Thai food in the city, delicious curry offerings, and well-executed classic noodle dishes. Mark’s Chop Suey 3343 N Halsted | 773.281.9090 Smack dab in the middle of Boystown, Mark’s is the preferred Chinese delivery for many living along the lakefront. Panino’s 3702 N Broadway |773.472.6200 PaninosPizzeria.com A Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections - pizza, sandwiches, and pasta dinners - desserts include homemade cannoli and gelato. Pekin House 2311 W Devon Ave | 773.465.1630 They have the best egg rolls in the city. Bar none!
C. W. Napkin 2301 N Clark | 773.244.2600 CWNapkin.com In business for more than 40 years, C.W. Napkin delivers pizza, chicken, ribs, sandwiches, onion rings, and chocolate cake that is simply to die for. Eat-A-Pita 3155 N Halsted | 773.929.6727
eatapitachicago.com In addition to stir-fry pitas with a choice of five sauces, they also serve up a variety of hot sandwiches, entrees, BBQ ribs, and delicious milkshakes. The Fireside 5739 N Ravenswood | 773.561.7433 firesidechicago.com Taking care of the north side with offerings such as ribs, meatloaf, chops, and steaks, they offer late night delivery (until 3am on weekends) Horizon Café 3805 N Broadway | 773.883.1565 horizoncafechgo.com Delivering during lunch and dinner hours on a daily basis, Horizon is the place to call for rib-sticking comfort food as well as delicious desserts such as Creamy Rice Pudding and
institution.
Penny’s Noodle Shop 3400 N Sheffield | 773.281.8222; 950 W Diversey | 773.281-8448; 1542 N Damen | 773.394.0100 pennysnoodleshop.com A simple menu with delicious Thai offerings and cheap prices are hallmarks of this enduring Chicago
Pie Hole Pizza Joint 737 W Roscoe | 773.525.8888 PieholePizzaJoint.com Focusing on the fine art of pizza, this gay-owned “joint” has some of the most unique offering around. Pingpong 3322 N Broadway | 773.281.7575 PingpongRestaurant.com When pan-Asian cuisine (Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Thai) with an upscale flair is what you desire, Pingpong is an automatic choice. Young’s Restaurant 3949 N Ashland Ave | 773.248.7998 YoungsChinese.com Considered by many to have some of the best quality Chinese food in the city, this Lakeview restaurant is known for their super speedy delivery service.
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AMERICAN Ann Sather 929 W. Belmont | 773.348.2378; 3416 N Southport | 773.404.4475; 5207 N Clark | 773.271.6627; 3411 N Broadway | 773.305.0024 These bustling hot spots, serving traditional Swedish pancake house fare, are open only for breakfast and lunch and are best known for hearty daytime offerings and their homemade cinnamon rolls. Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted | 773.935.6696 This world famous vegetarian restaurant offers vegan and organic offerings using the protein-based meat substitute seitan. Organic beers, wine, and spirits are also available.
“Thelonious Brunch” with live jazz on Sundays features menu items such as a Cajun Scramble with andouille sausage, Crab Cakes Benedict, and the Hobo Skillet. Brunch includes 15 varieties Long Island Ice Teas. Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted | 773.525.1111 Providing the best of diva entertainment along with a full dinner menu, they offer ½-price cocktails and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree on Wednesdays. .
Crew 4804 N. Broadway | 773.784.2739 More than just a sports bar, the menu includes a variety of hamburgers, sandwiches, salads and comfort food.
M. Henry 5707 N. Clark | 773.561.1600 This popular Andersonville outpost serves breakfast and lunch daily and features creative fare such as dulce banana rumba French toast, and pancakes with warm blackberries and vanilla mascarpone cream. Additionally there are many vegetarian dishes and traditional menu items like three-cheese omelets.
Deleece Grill Pub 3313 N. Clark | 773.348.3313 This comfortable newly opened restaurant features eight different steaks, chicken and shrimp entrées, four different versions of mac and cheese, and a separate artesan cheese menu. Open until midnight (2am on Fridays and Saturdays).
Minibar Café 3341 N. Halsted This attractive and sophisticated space serves gourmet bruschettas, cheeses, paninis, and entrees as well as an impressive selection of wines by the glass from around the world. The Sunday brunch is tasty and impressive.
Deluxe Diner 6349 N Clark | 773.743.8244 Perched kittycorner from Jackhammer and Touché, the diner’s “open 24 hours on the weekend” status is perfect after a night of dancing and partying. Featured menu items include homemade chicken noodle soup, burgers, burritos, and breakfast skillets that are served anytime.
Nookies Tree 3334 N. Halsted | 773.248.9888 A regular haunt for the locals of Boystown and popular with hangover recoverers, this upscale diner serves made-to-order omelets, pancakes, waffles and crepes and other brunch fare all day. And it’s open 24 hours on weekends.
Halsted’s Bar & Grill 3441 N Halsted | 773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery serves up a wide array of tasty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and popular comfort food items at very reasonable prices in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Beers on tap are aplenty and the weekend brunch draws an attractive crowd. Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N Clark | 773.784.6969 This fun and popular Andersonville restaurant features a wide array of burgers and sandwiches along with an interesting selection of tasty appetizers. Horizon Café 3805 N. Broadway | 773.883.1565 This longtime popular Lakeview family restaurant serves up big portions of creative homestyle dishes as well as healthy fare (broth-based soups and whole wheat tortilla wraps) and at affordable prices. Breakfast, including multigrain pancakes and egg white omelets, served all day long. Delivery available. IHOP 3760 N Halsted | 773.296.0048 More than a pancake house, this 24-hour Boystown institution serves up affordably priced appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that are sure to satisfy varying after-bar wants and needs.
Melrose Restaurant 3233 N Broadway | 773.327.2060 This Lakeview institution has been catering to the after-bar crowds for decades, serving breakfast anytime along with typical diner fare. Open 24 hours, Orange 3231 N. Clark | 773.549.4400 This homey restaurant specializes in breakfast on a daily basis and hosts a full house on weekends for brunch. Unique menu items include green eggs and ham (eggs scrambled with basil pesto and pancetta), jelly donut pancakes, Chai tea-infused French toast, and pan-seared grit cakes. Queens Tavern & Bistro 750 W. Cornelia | 773.248.8333 Occupying the old Cornelia’s space, this charming new eatery is warm and inviting and features a value menu filled with both bar food and entrée items as well as daily specials. Stella’s Diner 3042 N. Broadway | 773.472,9040 Fine diner dining features fresh salads, a large selection of wraps, sandwiches, hearty entrees, pastas, and homemade deserts. Tweet 5020 N. Sheridan | 773.728.5576 This Uptown favorite uses organic ingredients when possible to create brunch items such as buckwheat pancakes, Danish beignets, Belgian waffles, and an impressive assortment of breakfast burritos and egg Benedict dishes.
Joey’s Brick House 1258 W. Belmont | 773.296.1300
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Wilde Bar & Restaurant 3130 N Broadway | 773.244.0404 This cozy upscale Irish pub offers a laid back and warm atmosphere and a wide ranging menu that is sure to please. Expect updated versions of pub favorites like chicken pot pie, meatloaf dinner, fish & chips, burgers and salads.
MEDITERRANEAN
ASIAN
Andies 1467 W Montrose | 773.348.0654; 5253 N Clark | 773.784.8616 Specializing in Mediterranean and vegetarian cuisine, specialties of the house include steak kabobs, gyros, and poultry dishes such as Greek Chicken and Lebanese Style Chicken Kefta Kabob. And as befits the cuisine, desserts include a very tasty baklava.
Jitlada Thai House 3715 N Halsted | 773.388.9988 This quaint family-owned eatery features Asian favorites such as pad Thai, pineapple fried rice, crab ragoon, pot stickers, tempura and nine spice curry items. Delivery available.
Istanbul 3613 N Broadway | 773.525.0500 Specializing in Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines, this recent addition to the lakeview dining scene has been attracting patrons with a varied menu, generous portions, and affordable prices.
Pingpong 3322 N. Broadway | 773.281.7575 This popular Lakeview restaurant features high-quality Pan-Asian cuisine in a hip and modern atmosphere as well as top-notch people-watching of those in the restaurant as well as those walking by outside. Delivery available.
Reza’s 5255 N Clark St, Chicago | 773.561.1898 Offering Persian, Middle-Eastern, and Mediterranean food, this Andersonville institution has been serving this type of cuisine long before it became popular, pleasing vegetarians or meat lovers alike.
Young’s Chinese Restaurant 3949 N Ashland | 773.248.7998 While Chinese takeout is sometimes a bad and poorly tasting stereotype, this well-regarded outpost has earned a stellar reputation for great tasting food and delivery so quick you’ll swear there must be a wok in the car.
I TA L I A N Anna Maria Pasteria 4400 N Clark | 773.506.2662 Owned by sisters who hail from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this neighborhood gem creates homemade modern and traditional Italian dishes that are authentic, delicious, and best of all: inexpensive. Angelina Ristorante 3561 N Broadway | 773.935.5933 Hosting the coolest and hippest Sunday brunch crowd in Lakeview, the menu includes Eggs Benedict, Fritattas, Croque Monsiuer and Mufalatta sandwiches, almondcrusted stuffed French Toast, and the free flow of Champagne Mimosas. Brunch here is loud, raucous and FUN! Panino’s Pizzeria 3702 N Broadway 773.472.6200 Panino’s has established itself as a Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections, including gyros and burgers, pasta entrees, and of course pizza. Delivery available. Pie Hole 737 W. Roscoe | 773. 525.8888 A “fully gay-owned” pizza joint, this Boystown favorite has a fun vibe and uses the freshest ingredients on its offering of specialty pizzas. Open until 3am (6am on Fridays and Saturdays) with delivery available until midnight.
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MEXICAN Cesar’s 2924 N. Broadway | 773.296.9097; 3166 N Clark | 773.248.2835 This family-owned operation offers an enticing menu full of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties, irresistible desserts, and their signature “Killer Margaritas.” Fiesta Mexicana 2423 N. Lincoln | 773.769.4244 Not your typical late-night taco & burrito stand, this Lincoln Park favorite serves up traditional Mexican dishes and seafood specialties. Open until 2am (3am on Saturdays) Mayan Palace 2703 N. Halsted Known to be one of the very best Mexican restaurants in the city, the focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients for its “south of the border” cuisine. Portions are generous and the cool Margaritas dubbed “The World’s Best!”
w/ DJ Plez
Calvin Harris Is Not Alone Often referred to as the King of Electropop, the Scottish singersongwriter, record producer, remixer and DJ Calvin Harris first came up on my radar screen a couple of years ago with his remixes of Kylie Minogue’s “In My Arms” and “Heart Beat Rock.” He’s now quite a sensation on the European dance music scene and is quickly establishing himself as a big name here in the States as well. His second studio album, Ready for the Weekend, was released last summer across the pond (in the Unites States in October on Ultra Records), quickly reached number 1 on the UK Album Chart, and has spawned four singles, including “Flashback” and the just Calvin Harris released “You Used To Hold Me.” Of the singles on Ready for the Weekend, the one that really captured my attention and that should be on your playlist is “I’m Not Alone,” a song that actually had it’s debut more than a year ago and that last spring reached the top of the UK Singles chart, replacing Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face.” Despite its #1 UK achievement, in my opinion this euphoric trancesque anthemic track should have gotten much more attention Stateside upon its September release here. While David Guetta
and Kelly Rowland delivered last year’s smash anthem hit “When Love Takes Over,” it really should have shared top billing with a few other tracks. “I’m Not Alone,” featuring Harris’ emotive vocal performance and an insane hook, is one of those other tracks. Only about four months old since its U.S. release, I firmly believe that time has not passed this song by, and thus I feel it my duty to bring your attention to this “dated’ single. It really is that good, and while the original album version can stand proud on its own, there are three fantastic remixes that help make this song that much more of a powerhouse. Yes, Tiësto and Deadmau5 deliver what they do so well - trance and progressive house remixes, respectively - but the real gem of the remix package is the punchy Burns Rewerk version. It adds energy and urgency to this stalwart of a track, taking it to that “amazing” level that drives me crazy with joy and excitement. I invite you to share a little crazy with me; I don’t want to be alone. Next Up First there was Hilary Duff, then it was Miley Cyrus, and now next up on the Disney Channel pop music parade of female stars is Selena Gomez, the long-legged 17year-old beauty who stars on the Wizards of Waverly Place tv series. Her new debut musical effort, a 12-tracker, is called Kiss & Tell and
instead of bubble gum treatments about teenage puppy love, the album contains songs that hint to a Gomez who is wise beyond her years. The first single is called “Naturally,” and naturally it has been remixed for the dance floor: three official versions, with three distinct styles, by Ralphi Rosario, Dave Audé, and Disco Fries. Overall this is quite a good remix package with all three versions delivering quality fare. Hilary and Miley have struck gold with their forays into the pop music world, and it looks like Miss Gomez is likely to follow in their successful footsteps. Tardy Partiers Fans of Bravo-TV’s Real Housewives of Atlanta television series may be happy to know that Kim Zolciak’s “Tardy For The Party” has been remixed for the dance floor by superstar DJ Tracy Young. Sped up to a decent bpm and supplied with quality rhythm and beats to go along with the melody and the hook, Young has crafted a remix that’s fairly solid and should find favor on the dance floor. And for those who can’t take Ms. Zolciak’s vocal performance; there’s a Dub mix that will probably suit your taste and needs. boi 29
February 25 – March 10, 2010
Put Your Dancing Shoes On Major dance partying in the city this weekend starts off with Argentinean DJ Hernán Cattáneo at Spy Bar on Friday, February 26. That same night Hydrate brings back DJ Chris Spinazzola, winner of its recent “Open Decks” competition… Big-time DJing names continue to invade the city the next night, Saturday, February 27, with DJ Heather rocking house beats at Smart Bar while trance-meisters Blank & Jones take over downtown @ Vision. The very talented DJ Ted Eiel bring his Chunkhouse style for the very first time to Hydrate for edition of their Black Out party. This is a debut that’s not to be missed.
Madonna Obsession For those of you who can’t get enough of Madonna, next weekend is for you. First off there are two Madonna Release Parties for the new single “Revolver” (btw, the Tracy Young Club Mix is fantastic!): the in-city event takes place at Jackhammer on Friday, March 5 (11pm) w/ Teri Yaki as host while the suburban celebration is the next night out at Hunter’s in Elk Grove Village. To cap the weekend off, Berlin presents its monthly MadonnaRama w/ Riley York on Sunday, March 7.
Chili, Burlesque, and Oscars… oh my! The 11th Annual Jack Daniel’s Chili Cook-off takes place on Saturday, March 6 @ Sidetrack (2pm-6pm). Your $10 donation to be a taster benefits the Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce… Later that night, the annual Chicago Take Off charity event to benefit TPAN takes place at Park West (322 W. Armitage). There are two shows at 7:30pm and 10pm. Reservations & info: ChicagoTakesOff.org… To coincide with the Academy Awards on Sunday, February 7 the Center on Halsted will be having its On The Red Carpet Oscars Party at the Fairmont Hotel (200 N. Columbus Dr.) with VIP tickets @ $150 and general admission @ $75. Tickets & info: CenterOnHalsted.org or 773.661.0787.
Winter Party Alternatives For those not going to Miami for Winter Party this weekend, there are several interesting events in Chicago next weekend. Marc & Fausto and their FeastofFun.com have a live Men’s Only podcast event set @ Steamworks on Friday, March 5. The fun starts at 8pm and features live comedy from Teri Yaki, Cameron Esposito, Bill Cruz, and Keith Ecker ... Chus
& Ceballos, the legendary Spanish DJing duo will be @ Spy Bar on Friday, March 5 for their Residency Launch party. That same night Danny Howells and Lee Burridge headline over at Sound-Bar while Phil DaBeatz spins during Lube Wrestling @ Hydrate… On Saturday, March 6, DJ Ron G returns to Hydrate for a late night session filled with music as good as anything you would have heard at Winter Party.
In The Thick of It The video bar Sidetrack packs them in nightly with a popular line-up that includes Showtunes on Mondays, U-Video Request night on Tuesdays, and Comedy on Thursdays… At Roscoe’s, Frida Lay hosts Drag Race 2010 on Tuesdays while Miss Foozie takes charge of Male Call on Sundays…… Scarlet presents The First Ward Ball, a weekly themed party, every Friday night while Sunday features a Liquid Brunch with $4 Bloody Marys and Screwdrivers… The recently re-opened Rehab plays host to Wiggin’ Out every Saturday (9:30pm) with Miss Foozie as host… Other Boystown options include Halsted’s Bar & Grill (Team Trivia on Mondays), North End (Darts Tourney on Thursdays), Bobby Loves (karaoke on Fridays), Charlie’s (country line dancing lessons on Fridays), and Cell Block (leather/fetish/bears/jeans). The Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club has half-price cocktails on Wednesdays and RuPaul’s Drag Race Viewing Parties on Tuesdays.… Buck’s and Little Jim’s are always friendly hang-out spots while live entertainment shines nightly at 3160 and during Voltaire Cabaret Tuesdays @ Hydrate on at 9pm.
Dance To The Music When it comes to dancing early in the night, Spin has WTF $1 Drink Night on Wednesdays and a fun monthly rotation of parties on Friday and Saturday nights… Down @ Minibar, Friday nights feature DJ Shawn Edwards lording over the bi-level party space while Roscoe’s boom bass dance floor gets worked by DJs Kevy, Ron G, and DigiDave.… In Uptown the Wild Pug features DJ Pervy every Saturday. For after-hours dancing, the always popular Hydrate presents a weekly line-up that includes DJ Greg Drescher (Sundays), DJ Laura B (Mondays); DJR (Tuesdays); and DJ Phil DaBeatz (Thursdays)… Berlin has Cosmix Fridays w/ DJ Greg Haus and Twisted Saturdays w/ DJs Larissa and Chester… Charlie’s rocks a hi-energy after-hours every night of the week w/ DJ LuLu and others… Jackhammer is the far north side’s late night dance option and features DJ Man boi 33
February 25 – March 10, 2010 Scott on Fridays… The Ultimate After Hours @ The Ram takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with the likes of DJs Ron G and David C. There’s not a lot of dancing @ Closet, but it’s a fun, under-rated late night hangout for the drinking set.
Look At How Big It Gets! Steamworks, the full-service all-male club, has a Lights Out party every Thursday and After-hours on Fridays and Saturdays with DJ Greg Ellsworth. The weekly Sunday Spin Cycle takes place 3pm-2am with DJs Chris Eterno and Peter Canellis handling the early shift until 8pm and DJ Jim B serving beats until 2am. On Saturday, February 27, the Bears, The Baths & Beyond play party features DJ Dexter, 1pm-6pm… Up @ Man’s Country, the strippers really do strip down to nothing every Friday and Saturday @ Midnight: on Friday, February 26 it’s Sean Taylor, Haley and Camron; and on Saturday, February 27 Jovanni, Alex and Nick take the stage. Lucky Horseshoe in Boystown has strippers nightly while they strut all weekend long at @ mosphere (Thursday – Saturday) with DJs Eric Hall and Timmy Loop spinning groovy beats on Fridays and Saturdays, respectively… Jackhammer and Spin have the Chicago Beef dancers on Fridays and Saturdays while Inn Exile only has them on Fridays… Hunters Hunks liven up Hunters on Thursdays w/ DJ Laura B on the decks. On the amateur side of things, Roscoe’s will present its monthly Wet Boxer Contest on Thursday, February 25. The contest begins @ midnight with $600 in cash prizes up for grabs.
Homes For House The home for house music in Boystown has long been Cocktail with a DJ line-up that includes Timmy Loop (Tuesdays), Michael Serafini (Thursdays), Freddie Bain (Fridays), Diva DJs (Saturdays), a the troika of Chris Eterno, Uncle Milty, and Pete Augusta (Sundays). On Wednesdays, Twisted Trivia w/ Teri Yaki and Dusty begins @ 10pm.… House music has another Boystown outlet at Scarlet, featuring Psycho Saturdays with the one and only DJ Psycho Bitch… Every Monday the Boom Boom Room @ Green Dolphin Street continues its success w/ resident DJs Michael Serafini, Diz, JustJoey & Uncle Milty.
Minority Report A brand new weekly Latino party called Krash has started up at Capitol Night Club (4244 N. Milwaukee 34 boi
Ave.) on Saturdays featuring a show hosted by Veronica Zaid @ 10:30pm and late night dance music by DJs Ink and ALK… The weekly Latino nights @ Circuit include the Latin cowboy set at Noche Latina, w/ hostess Veronica Zaid and DJs Ink & Alex Perez on Sundays and La Noche Loca on Thursdays featuring Miss Ketty’s Latina Review… When it comes to an urban blend of hip-hop, R&B, house, and reggaeton, Fridays is all about The Rails @ Krush, while Saturdays sees folks groovin’ to the beats of DJs Kenae, Anton, and Corona at the Urbano party @ Circuit… Club Escape takes care of south siders on a nightly basis while Mz. Ruffy’s Cheap Drink Night gets everyone’s week off to a good start with $2 well drinks @ Republic (1520 N. Fremont) on Mondays… As for Chicago lesbians, you’ll find them gathering nightly @ Closet when hanging in Boystown and at several places in Andersonville, including T’s, SoFo, and Joi De Vine. Weekly parties include Circuit Girl on Fridays @ Circuit and a comfy environment on Thursdays on the South Side @ Club Escape.
Beyond Boystown Up in Andersonville you’ll find the popular neighborhood outpost SoFo, the martini bar Marty’s and The Call… Mary’s Attic features Rogue DJ for Feel Good Fridays and karaoke on Sundays and Wednesdays… The fetish community finds a home @ Touché with Hardcore Cruisin’ Night on Tuesdays, Bear Chested Night every Wednesday, and Handballer Night on Thursdays… Further north in Rogers Park is the very friendly The Glenwood. The Uptown/Edgewater neighborhood is home to Granville Anvil; Big Chicks and its popular Free Sunday Buffet; and the sports bar Crew, which has Project Runway Viewing Parties on Thursdays… Scot’s is a friendly watering hole in Ravenswood while Manhandler sits in the heart of Lincoln Park… Downtown, Second Story Bar is the only gay bar left in the area while Davenport’s piano bar entertains over in Wicker Park.
Suburban Outposts
Outside the Windy City limits, Hunters Nightclub features DJ Ron G on Friday nights and DJ Lawrence K on Saturdays… Velvet Rope in Oak Park has karaoke on Fridays and DJs and a Brunch Buffet with Champagne every Sunday… In Lake Station, Indiana, Encompass hosts karaoke on Tuesdays and Fridays and the Rush St. Revue Show on Sundays