One of the best clubs in the city. From techno to deep house, you will hear it here. It is in a super dark basement. Best sound system in Chicago. No one is judging you...just dance all night. CHEAP drinks too. read more

great music, great vibe, awesome drink specials! Great late night club!

This is the best club in the city, I'm not sure what else to say. The sound system is top-notch, the music is always on point, and I just love it here. I recommend it to anyone and everyone. read more

The maternity ward of house! And modest as could be. What a cool place! Stopping by every time I'm in Chicago!

Smart Bar is always a nice place to dance after a show at Metro upstairs. It's really dark, so you can dance like a fool and no one will see. The decor is pretty modern in the dance area with some comfy conversation nooks. They have two bars and you can usually get a drink quickly. Drinks were strong and the DJ is usually really good. I was a little upset to see that they poured my barely sipped cocktail out when I went to the bathroom even though my friends were dancing nearby. The vibe was not douchey and everyone seems pretty chill here. Word to the wise, don't use the photo booth near the entrance. The pictures turn out blurry. read more

If you're coming on a Saturday, bring your student ID or Smart Bar Tweet to gain admission into the bar for $5 before midnight. Otherwise, you pay $10 and then $13 after midnight. The music started out slow but as midnight struck, the tempo increased, making it easier to dance. There were no creepers the 2 times I patroned Smart Bar, the place is clean and polished, and the drinks are good for the comparable price they're offered at similar bars. The -1 start is for being charged for bottled water, so don't forget to drink plenty of water before coming here. read more

Yikes. I don't know why, but I want to go home and put on sweat pants when I go here. It sucks the party right out of me. I'd rather make stew and share it with my cats. read more

If you are a HOUSE HEAD...This is the place for you. People who go to Smart Bar are going strictly to party, nothing else. Smart Bar has some great deejays. Yeah the place isnt so extravagant..Its dark and dingy but its a great place to go to just to dance your ass off. read more

Oh, I almost forgot to review this place. I have been here a handful of times. It's a cute place with great DJs. When I'm in town it is usually one of the top spots for me to hit up. The drinks are decently priced, there's usually a drink/shot special which is always pretty awesome. I'm not sure I would go here on the regular if I lived in the area, but it's great for when I'm busy. read more

I love house music and Smart Bar is my favorite place to go listen to it. The people who work security are super nice and polite and the bartenders are fairly fast - even when they're busy. SmartBar isn't as pretentious as other clubs in the city. The DJs that open for the headliners are always really good (sometimes I think they're even better). The big downside (besides pricey drinks) is there are only 3 stalls in the women's restroom. I read a lot of reviews about how people who go to Smart Bar are really into the music, but I don't think that's necessarily true. There have been a fair amount of younger trendy people in the last two years - at least on the nights I've been. Maybe I'm just getting old and grouchy.... read more

I love Smart Bar for some good techno/house music. It is always a great vibe and you are surrounded by people that are there for the music and not to look pretty. They have great local talent and national names alike with varying cover charges. Be sure to check out one of their SuperJane nights which could include DJ Heather, Colette and Dayhota! You will not be disappointed listening to any of these women spin! read more

smart bar has been a staple in the late night eclectic forward thinking music scene. situated underneath the metro in wrigleyville, i love the intimate dance floor and minimalist lo-fi design of the dark lounge. it holds capacity at about 450 which is a perfect number without making it overly crowded yet able to maintain a good energy for all dancing patrons. smart bar has been on the forefront in bringing in quality foreword thinking dj's from all over the country and world. miles maeda along with dj heather have their monthly residencies which i highly recommend for all those who haven't seen these kindred spirits in action. as a late night venue things start getting interesting past midnight as the crowd forms on the dance floor around one and beyond. great energy, chill crowd, always a fun time. read more

Let me start out by saying that I'm not much of a dancer, and I really don't get into dance music. That being said, this place is a blast. Great atmosphere, friendly bartenders, awesome DJs, they all add up to a cool experience. Whether they're spinning trance or rock, it's always a good time. Like I said, I'm not much of a dancer, but I can't remember a time at the Smart Bar when I wasn't eventually coaxed onto the dance floor. Oh, I almost forgot, they have a photo booth, it's provided some legendary pics over the years. Smart Bar's always a good time. read more

Everything that needs to be said, already has. This place is AWESOME!! I've had countless parties here and have gotten to hang out with some of my favortie Electronic Artists that roll through. Hawtin (during the old minimal days), Lawnchair Generals, Swayzak, SuperJane, Danny the wild Child, Juan Atkins. This place is responsible for one of the single most druken nights in my life... here's to three olive grape vodka and sprite, mmmm liquid jolly ranchers. If you got the right night you'll probably find me there. read more

I wasn't really sure what my friends and I were going to do on New Years. The bar I was going to go to was sold out and we are College students so we didn't really feel like paying $75-100 to go to a bar. It was $30 to get in but it was for a 3 amazing DJ's! The price of the ticket was totally worth it. The Dj's were really really good and I had so much fun, I literally danced the whole night away. It really was one of my best new years yet! This place is great if you're sick of the horrible remix rap songs you hear everywhere else. If you like to dance and electronic music, smart bar is the place to go. T read more

I raged Smartbar for the first time this past weekend and had a really great time. I think of this place as more of a music venue than a club though since they get great acts and not all no name djs. It wasn't pretentious in the least bit. There was no lame bottle service tables filled with cheesy dudes and slutty girls (that I noticed) and I didn't feel out of place in my jeans and turtleneck, hey I'm 31 not 21. I felt like it was a very "down to earth" club. I always hear about great dj's playing here but it's usually during the week so I've never ventured up here until my friends were spinning. I wish it wasn't so damn far north..it's like going to Wisconsin! Since my friends got a residency here I think I will be finding myself here more often. read more

Chicago is the bedrock of House Music.and Smart Bar is the mainstay for Chicago House. Unpretentious, average drink prices for Chicago (though cheaper than most clubs), great space, great sound...people come here for the music. Best DJ lineup in all the city for those who know and love music. Try to check out a night when DJ Colette or Heather are spinning. The only downside is the cover, which is usually around $10. This is very reasonable considering the talent they bring in. During the week they sometimes play more experimental electronica. Check the website for the scheduled lineup. You won't be listening to top 40s, mainstream radio crap here. read more

Ok club in a nice and safe part of Chicago. Wish the music was better.

I love this place! I have yet to hear a better sound system in Chicago. They really did an excellent job with that. The venue constantly brings the best talent from around the world. The dance floor is very inviting and such a great party environment. I could not imagine Chicago without Smart Bar. This is really a place for true party people. read more

My admiration for Smartbar stems from my admiration for The Metro. I usually have a great time there. Its convenient for post concert drinks and the dj's are always playing some decent music. I had one bad experience here regarding glass in my drink and a rude bartender but i would still go there if a group were meeting up. All kind of music, the crowed is generally pretty good especially if a big show just let out! read more

I have been to my fair share of clubs in Chicago and by far Smart Bar wins for best club hands down. Is there a VIP section? HELL NO! Is there a spacious dance floor? HELL YES! The bartenders make stiff drinks, are reasonably priced and last time I was there they gave me free bottled water. Even though the new crappy club like The Mid are booking all the major talent in Chicago, Smart Bar is keeping it old skool. Bringing in acts like Frankie Knuckles, Derrick Carter, Carl Craig, Jeff Mills, Marshall Jefferson, Maurice Joshua, DJ Pierre, Phuture 303, and A Guy Called Gerald it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Yes the place might not be as packed as it used to be but the music is quality. Every time I bring a friend with me to the club we have a blast and it is always a memorable experience. Just a club keeping it real with none of the attitude that I get at other clubs. I also love it is attached to The Metro another excellent place to see a show. Overall Chicago music at its finest. read more

Subterranean, dark, loud, and late. Great djs. Go.

I'm not a slut I promise!!! But whenever I go out, I have to look like I wanna get banged. On Friday night, I abandoned my black pumps and I busted out my Vans because I knew I was gonna need them. Smart Bar was the last stop of the night so the Vans were put to good use. House music was my Energizer battery...pumping through veins which kept me dancing and dancing...until I had to leave because I start work at 4. Beside the douche who was trying to dance with me and drank...not sip...my vodka lemonade...everything was all good. read more

susan l. pretty much sums up smart bar. fab music, dance space was great. i of course am not much of a dancer, but the crowd seemed to enjoy the scene. would i got back? heck yes...although most likely i would go for the photo booth. rock. read more

A sure plus if you are going here after a night at the Metro because the cover is waived. This is the kind of place that you will get smashed at no matter what your intentions are. The DJs vary in style, so make sure you know what you are in for before you head out. Photo booth has never failed. Decent prices and loungey, dark atmosphere. Recipe for trouble. read more

Totally.....the bomb! Some of the best DJs in the world come here! Loves it! The crowd is cool too. Don't try to grind on my ass.. not welcome here! Just feel the beats, and move! read more

Ehh... Parking of course is a little inconvenient- but at least there's a nearby $10 public parking lot that shuts down at 3am. The club itself is probably like other clubs, but this one was smoky - not cigarette-smoky, just the smoke effects. Music sucked at the time I was there and it felt like a ghetto wannabe club-due to the location and some of the customers. read more

I love this place because it's sincere - and for people who genuinely like house music, that's really hard to find.

Basically the only place I go in Chicago for good electronic music. Sound system is simply stunning, and no where else nearby to go for some great techno. read more

Wasn't thrilled after my first visit, but after seeing Orchard Lounge last night, they definitely earned a solid four stars. Drinks aren't cheap but in Wrigleyville that's the norm. Wonderful atmosphere to see a show, and definitely an unforgettable new years. read more

Staff and drinks are awesome. Be aware that it is a complete sausage fest, but if you are going just for the music, you should be satisfied. The sound system is very good and everyone seems to be friendly. read more

I am always so - so about this place; meaning I have a love/hate relationship with Smart Bar. This place stays open sooooo late, that if you feel that you absolutely NEED to be out with your friends until 3 am, you can. The drinks are always reasonably priced, some could consider them cheap. Also, they are never watered down, so , to me, that is a helluva positive. As for who plays there...everytime I go it's techno/rave music- which is the only music I will really dance to. Its always loud, very crowded, and very dirty. The bathrooms are always "impressive" though. And I think I saw a janitor in there one night around midnight, so I can't snag them there. The dirtiness comes from the sticky floors early in the night, the vomit (that yes, I have personally come across) hidden behind the speakers or on top of peoples things in the corners or on the sofa-benches. The bar counter top is always littered with garbage and old drinks---which can lead to be very dangerous. I am no stickler, but seriously....I just don;t want people to get raped or sick. Speaking of raped...I think this is the best bar to go to if youre in the mood to get gropped on. I am not that kind of person, so I normally go to the middle of the bar with a huge group of friends and dance with them all night. So be aware, if you're drunk/tipsy, and not surrounding by your friends or your "lesbian girlfriend", better dress is something not so slutty. I do like that there are 2 atmospheres to the bar, the chill one with seating near the larger bar, and a huge wall separates it from the dance floor in case you need to take a breather. There IS a cover fee. Normally 5-12 bucks , and they DO NOT ACCEPT ANYTHING BUT CASH at the entrance. The bar takes credit cards, no problem...but be aware that you'll need to stop by the ATM before you get there most nights. read more

Smart Bar is a Chicago tradition when it comes to dance clubs. The 23-year-old must-visit club is actually in the basement of the Metro. The dance floor is small and located directly in front of the DJ booth, but the sound is phenomenal. There are several places to sit to relax after a good hour of hard dancing. I recommend visiting the club when the female coalition, resident DJs Heather who spins Chicago House and Colette who sings operatic tunes (mezzo soprano) along with the records on the turntable, are in the house. Your feet will leave the club happy. read more

Went on a Friday night around midnight. It was almost completely empty. Got in for free with the text message they sent me, also got my 4 buddies in free with it although they weren't pumped about that. The bartender said that Saturday is the better night, wouldn't take much to be better than when I was there. We didn't stay long so maybe it got better but seems like you are taking a chance on this place especially if you have to pay a cover. read more

No matter where we are for the night; we somehow end up at Smart Bar. There is never a line.... we always find parking.....there is always a drink special on Saturday nights.... the music is always thumping..... we wear blue jeans....., and the douchebag factor is low. This is the place to go for people who want to dance to house music, but can skip all the other bullshit that goes along with the "Club Scene" read more

Went there on a Saturday and got in around 11.15PM. No line and $5 cover charge with a student ID. The bar started filling up around midnight and we left around 12.45AM so my experience is only during that time. The music was pretty good and sound system was great. the dance floor and the whole area in general looked clean (including the rest room). The beer was around $5 so not too expensive. The crowd was mixed, about 70-30 (men to women), very casually dressed but generally seemed to be having a good time. This place probably gets busy a little later in the night. I would consider coming back but only after 1AM or so when it gets livelier. read more

Smart Bar is Awesome Great Scene, Great Music, Great People. Located near the side of Metro VERY VERY VERY Good DJ's spinning all the time. The Staff is Great The Doorman are very cool and reasonal people Great Night Club Its about Dancing!!!!!!!! HOUSE MUSIC!!! read more

This is a fun venue. Again, depending on the night/schedule and how you present yourself, this can be a mixed bag establishment but generally the sounds and vibes make up for anything/everything that might go awry! They have great music. Expect to hear music here you might hear only months later even by your indie EDM-obsessed niche friend's standards. The dance areas are fun and if you are on E, DXM, or tripping on some sort, the music only makes this place funner. The bartenders are sweet, accommodating and courteous. The drinks are honest-- when you pay for a double, you're honestly getting a double. No skimping and no poor service. Compared to the rest of Wrigleyville/Lakeview, enter this place if you have or seek an "enlightened" view on music and drink. This place is great if you hate and avoid all the bars near Wrigley, "bros bars" etc. This place is music-oriented, and not a place where you'll find too many "bros". I like this place. Go to it. Have fun! read more

gotta have HOUSE music...all night long. one of the last clubs in the city w/ character. this isn't a see-and-be-seen spot....it's a see-amazing-dj's spot. With the residents only playing at Smartbar, you know you are going to see awesome dj's you can't see anywhere else....without going out of state, that is. I would definitely go to check out the faithful favorites: Kaskade, Colette and Justin Long; up and coming: Chris Santiago (Santiago & Bushido....voluntary disclosure--I am partial to this choice!!); Some greats I've seen at Smartbar: Switch and Kevin Saunderson. long live house music!!!!! read more

I only go when there is no cover or I've been at the metro for a show. It's hit or miss. Sometimes I have the greatest time other times I have had more fun at my grandma's house watching reruns of MASH. But all in all not a bad place to hang out--especially after a show at the Metro. Edit: Bumping this up to four stars b/c I'm totally digging Sunday nights here. Have gone several times and always walking away having had a great time. read more