Spy Bar
This former celeb haunt got a little work done over the summer. This isn’t the Spy Bar you’re used to, and the first glance may be a tad shocking. The space is structurally the same, but everything else has been nipped and tucked. Gone are the velvety drapes and leather couches. The new digs are mod and ultrasuede. The bar? Lit up in neon purple–to match the walls, of course. Wear your shades and try their new specialty drink: a Cristal martini ($10). 646 N. Franklin St. 312-587-8779.
Elm Street Liquors
The Gold Coast’s latest lounge is a major departure from the usual Rush and Division spots–no tourists, no bachelorette bashes and no sports. What does that leave? A sleek new bar with emphasis on style, fun and color. Bright blue walls and exposed brick give the bar a decidedly modern look. Sink into a plush couch and check out the hip eye candy sauntering past. 12 W. Elm St. 312-337-3200.
Small Bar
Wicker Park’s about to welcome a spinoff of Logan Square’s Small Bar, opening in the old Ohba space on Labor Day weekend. Expect the same pub grub as the original: calamari, burgers, BLTs, salads and a yummy ice cream sandwich served on homemade cookies. The fully stocked bar will serve 60-plus brews, from PBR to micro. The decor is decidedly low-key with a packed jukebox that owners say will rival iTunes. 2049 W. Division St. 773-772-2727.
Wet
The high-concept decor might be overkill, but Wet’s definitely a sight to see. The underwater theme spills into every room, with blue being the color of choice for just about everything. The main room’s limestone wall has aquarium projections screened, adding a quirky twist to the look. The VIP room (upstairs) is just small enough to be elite, and with the hefty price tags on the bottle service, you better have serious cash to flash before stepping up. 209 W. Lake St. 312-223-9232.
Motel
Word of this new hotel bar sans hotel is traveling fast. Lobby bars bring to mind a noir elegance and naughty trysts–not to mention high prices. Take the old-school drinks and ambiance, add some Motel 6 prices and you’ve got Hubie Greenwald’s new bar. (Greenwald is co-owner of Mas.) Scheduled to open sometime in November in the old Montgomery Ward building, Motel’s sure to attract an interesting following. 600 W. Chicago Ave.
Flybar
We were intrigued by this new club/lounge until we realized it was just Dragonfly Mandarin’s nighttime look for its new Randolph Street location. After 10 p.m., the lights dim, the DJ spins, and sweaty people will be shaking it around you–while you eat. Appetizing. 832 W. Randolph St. 312-787-7600.
