For nicotine fiends, the proposed ban on smoking in Chicago bars and restaurants is a total drag. Non-smokers, on the other hand, are looking forward to coming home from a night out without having to empty a bottle of Febreze on their clothes.
As the debate continues, we have news that will make non-smokers light up: A handful of bars have already snuffed out indoor puffing.
Funky Buddha Lounge
This West Town lounge attracts a superb blend of see-and-be-seen types and average Joes with its cutting-edge deejays and live music. The smoke-averse head for the non-smoking back room–a great spot to scope out the models and watch the kids get freaky on the perennially packed dance floor. 728 W. Grand Ave. 312-666-1695.
Jazz Showcase
Joe Segal’s legendary River North club is arguably the best place in town to catch shows by the biggest names in jazz. The long-standing no-smoking policy is a boon for the performers and audience alike. The space is intimate but rarely overcrowded, loud but far from obnoxious. Plus, the lack of haze means that you’ll have a perfect view of the stage. 59 W. Grand Ave. 312-670-2473.
Uncommon Ground
If you like lattes with your live music, this cozy hole in the wall (also serving beer and wine) is a fabulous place to chill. Just as you’d expect in a comfy coffeehouse, you’ll spot everyone from students cramming for exams to young professionals on first dates snacking on the baked goods, soups and sandwiches. Don’t be shocked to see a Jeff Buckley-wannabe performing by the fireplace, and make sure to check out the ever-changing collection of original art. 1214 W. Grace St. 773-929-3680.
Buddy Guy’s Legends
Every once in a while, including this Thursday, this seminal blues club bans smoking in its normally hazy interior. Still, that doesn’t stop household names from beating down the door: Mick Jagger and Ron Wood dropped in for an impromptu jam in September, and Buddy Guy mingles with the crowd when he’s in town. In addition to the obvious–stellar music from the biggest blues icons–Buddy’s also features a fantastic Southern menu, including mouthwatering barbecue and Creole dishes by chef Jason Girard. 754 S. Wabash Ave. 312-427-0333.
The Wild Hare
Located in the heart of Wrigleyville, the self-proclaimed “reggae capital of America” features live music by an international roster of bands seven nights a week. The bar caters to the clean-lung crowd two nights a week: Tuesdays, when there’s no cover for the reggae dance party; and Thursdays, featuring world music and $2 domestic bottles. There is also a non-smoking V.I.P. room. 3530 N. Clark St. 773-327-4273.
