Ambiance: A DJ spins hip-hop or chill house beats to set the mood at The Bungalow Loungebar, a sexy hideaway in the heart of Lakeview. Cozy, deep, leather booths and a raging fireplace complete the romantic scene — it’s the perfect place to cuddle with your sweetie before heading home to seal the deal.
Noise level: Friday and Saturday evenings are busy here. The volume’s turned up on the music, and the bar is full to bursting with an eclectic group of locals — and a few boisterous suburbanites trying to blend in. If you’re looking for a more intimate equation with an upbeat, urban vibe, visit on Thursday or Sunday nights for cool beats and a smaller crowd.
What to order: Vino lovers will find more than the usual house wine fallbacks — ditch the chardonnay and try a glass of chenin blanc or viognier. If you prefer your drink shaken and served up with a twist, sample the signature Bungalow Blonde martini, a tasty combo of Ketel One Citroen Vodka and limoncello.
Icebreaker: With the still fluctuating early-spring temps, it’s not too late to claim a booth by the hearth and tell your date how beautiful she looks by the warm glow of the fire. If the flames are out, just order a couple of glasses of sparkling wine ($8) before you leave to help spark your own combustion back home.
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The
Bungalow Loungebar
1622 W. Belmont Ave.
773-244-0400
Date rater: Seal the deal
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Gina B.’s inside tips
– Plan ahead and look smooth: Table reservations are accepted at no charge.
– Get more bang for your buck on Thursdays, when martinis are $7.
– If you’re a traditional drinker, knock back Knob Creek cocktails for $6 or a Manhattan for $8.
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RedEye sex columnist Gina B. is a Metromix special contributor.
metromix@tribune.com
