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    The Baton Show Lounge

    3.5 (277 reviews)
    ModerateLounges, Cabaret
    Closed Closed

    The Baton Show Lounge Lounges Photos

    Business Info

    THE BATON SHOW LOUNGE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Very loud
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - The Baton Show Lounge

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    Reviews With Photos

    Miranda C.

    A friend and I went on a trip to Chicago and decided a couple days before the trip we wanted to check out a fabulous show. Somehow I stumbled upon Baton Show Lounge and it was going to be their 54th Anniversary weekend. I was available to snag two tickets which I believe were about $20 each. We went to the late show - they had some drink specials that were $10-$13 I think. I had Mai Tai's during the show. They were very delicious but not very strong. I also believe we were overcharged by a few drinks but I was unable to flag down the cocktail waitress to get it fixed. It was very busy and the waitresses were working extremely hard and they were very friendly. The show was amazing!! My favorite performer was Joan Jullian but all of the performances were amazing and they were so incredibly talented. This is honestly the best drag show I have ever been to! I loved it. My only concern is shows are a little different where I am from and I didn't bring any tip money. I didn't realize the performers come out in the crowd to collect tips and I felt like such I chump that I didn't have any for them because they did such a good job. I did see an ATM machine on the way out after the show. That's my bad - but I wish I would have known. Otherwise overall a great experience and so much fun!

    Sheilisa D.

    This place is so unique. It's an elegant theatre style lounge with great entertainment. I attended for the drag brunch & bottomless mimosas. They had a plethora of breakfast and lunch style items buffet style and a chef making pancakes, omelette and French toast upon request. Everything was very tasty there was everything from wings, charcuterie items, fish, classic breakfast items, rice, fajitas you name it! The server was fast with the mimosas refills and miss Danika was an amazing host/performer. You will get your moneys worth and more from this experience. The queens were beautiful and had great style.

    Denyce M.

    We went here to celebrate my BFF's birthday and check out the new location. I have to say that Jim and the crew made a great selection in this new location: fabulous stage and a great outdoor patio/bar. Reservations are definitely required due to COVID and that is not a bad thing. You definitely want to know you have a seat on a Saturday night. Tickets were $13 cash at the door. The space is bigger than the old Baton, with the same double bar (one on the main floor and the elevated one on the other side of the bar) and the stage is very lovely. This venue use to be the home of a burlesque show and it definitely works for Baton. The décor has a very baroque feel to it, lots of red and gold ornate frames everywhere. The outdoor patio I have seen while driving down Broadway but I was able to see if up close and personal and it is lovely. We have decided to just come there and have drinks one night, it is just that inviting. There was a large sofa at the end of the patio that had my name on it and I am going to claim it soon. Going to give a big shout to the ladies room. For those of you that went to the old Baton, it was a small cramp two stall deal. This new one has at least five stalls and it is huge! Love, love, love it! Service was great, our server was too funny and was on top me to make sure I was getting my splits of Segura Viudas sparkling rose and kept calling me Bubbles. They have a food menu now, which the old place did not. Didn't eat anything myself, but my friend got a Croque Monsieur (Toasted Ham and Swiss Cheese Sandwich) that he inhaled, so I am gonna say he thought it was good. The performers are still amazing and put on a great show. I love all of the ladies and it was a treat to see Chilli Pepper perform on a holiday weekend, was not expecting that. I always respect her act because he is a true female impersonator, no surgery just old fashion make up and dresses. Not to take away from the other ladies as their illusion is flawless and they look lovely. It was good to see them in a full face shield when they came to mingle with the audience. I didn't know what to expect in terms of audience interaction and they did not disappoint. Definitely glad this was the choice to celebrate my BFF's birthday. I will be back to see what their brunch and show is like....hoping there are bottomless mimosas.

    Incredible, Ariana Grande vibes
    Dominica D.

    Saw my first drag show here and it was amazing!!! I could not stop watching the show! Every performance was unique and beautiful! I am so thankful my first show was at Baton. The drinks were delicious !!! The service was incredible and they were quick to us drinks!

    Salena C.

    Tickets are $17/person with card or $15/person with cash, and you must buy two drinks (around $5-8 a piece) per person. They had a lot of drink specials, and nothing was very strong, so it seemed like a weird add-on. I'm not sure if they even track how much everyone is having because service was super spotty. There are MANY bachelorettes on any given weekend (around 20 at our show!) and they made us all line up and talk about ourselves. I thought it was fun because I was one of the bachelorettes, but I could see how that wouldn't be fun if you weren't part of one of the parties! When my mom saw some pictures she laughed so hard because she said the same show girls have been there since she went years and years ago back in HER 20's. That means some of them have been in show business for 40+ years. I thought it was fun for a bachelorette party, but I probably wouldn't be back!

    Lisa C.

    I've been coming to the Baton Show Lounge for more than 20 years. I love the new location, it is definitely befitting of the Queens! The new location also offers food and a brunch as well. I visited drag shows in NYC and Vegas but the Baton is the Best. The shows are artistry in motion and the costumes and makeup are sheer perfection. I've been 3 times this year and I'm returning this weekend. Each show is new and different. The only downside is the last shows I've seen had fewer acts than in years past. I'm guessing it's for safety reasons. This is the perfect place for a birthday celebration, bachelorette party or girls night out. It's so much fun bringing first-timers here, it's such a visual treat. The performers are the best!!! In fact, they've added a male performer to the show and he is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!

    "CARDI B"
    Jacqueline F.

    Haven't been here in ages and came here recently on a Saturday night to catch the 8:30 pm show. It was just us ladies gathered for one of our bachelorette festivities for the weekend. If you have not yet been here, you're missing out on a great drag show. Each show lasts an hour and a half, definitely worth the $17 admission and 2 drink minimum. All of the drag queens look beautiful and put on a great lipsyncing act. The dresses that they wear were gorgeous I loved the choice of music. There is enough of a mix for both an older and a younger crowd and everyone can enjoy. I also like how they added a male performer and the ladies can put their dollars in his pants. "Angel" was beautiful and had all the ladies going gaga. The venue is small and cozy which is perfect for audience interaction with the performers. The waiters were very prompt and attentive and kept the drinks coming. If you're coming with a big group, make sure you bring cash as they only accept one credit card for your bill are cash. And dont forget your dollar bills to tip the queens!!

    Halloween brunch
    Leticia M.

    This was my first time going to see the show. Some friends invited me to go as the Baton show was hosting a Halloween brunch. I checked the website not knowing much about the the place and saw that this brunch was special themed for Halloween with an alleged costume contest with cash prizes. I was the only person in costume. According to the advertisement I should have gotten a cash prize. No, I got a free drink and 2 passes for future shows. I was a bit disappointed. I would have dressed up either way but don't advertisement 1 thing and not follow through. I saw no restrictions for prizes. This was my first and last time. Truly false advertisement! What else are they what other false advertisement are they posting?

    Table for 7 people
    Ken O.

    I'm really torn on this review.... I really wanted truly enjoy the show. Yes, this show has been in business for 45+ years, but I thought it was just okay. There were seven (7) of us on a recent Saturday night for a 10:30pm show. Upon entering the lounge, you need to pay the entrance fee. Just make sure you have cash or the is additional fee for the credit card. There is a handy ATM machine. Once our group had paid, we were taken to our table. We were placed way in the back - which was okay since we were able to see the show. They certainly squeeze everyone in. Ginger Grant, emcee, had welcome all of the guests and then proceeded to announce the special guests such as brides-to-be or anyone celebrating an occasion. From this point, some of the performers were really engaged with the audience and some were just there lip syncing without any engagement. Some of the performers would make the trek throughout the audience to ensure a great time and receive tips. There were couple of male performers, again, they were okay. The server, was very attentive to all of his tables. Yes, there is a two (2) drink minimum, which is stated clearly on the website. For some guests will is a lot of fun....It will probably decades for me to return to see this show.

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    Hostess was great, brunch was good. Inside needs to be upgraded because its very old and dated. The

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    Have a beautiful time atmosphere with beautiful customer service was great performance was outstanding

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    Ask the Community - The Baton Show Lounge

    How much is admission?

    Thursday & Sunday Night Shows are $10 per person cash and $12 CC. Friday & Saturday Night Shows are… Read more

    Is anyone under 21 allowed? Thinking about going for my daughter's 24th birthday but my youngest is only 20.

    The City of Chicago and The State if Illinois require guests to be 21+

    Is this club 18+?

    Yes! It would not be appropriate for anyone younger.

    Is the 2-4-1 Sunday Admission coupon still reedemable?

    The 2-4-1 Sunday Admission coupons have ended. The new (reduced) admission for Sunday is $10.00 per person with a two beverage minimum.

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - The Baton Show Lounge

    Always a blast and fun time here at the baton lounge, its a must group thing to do to get your night started or to top it off.

    Mentioned in 11 reviews

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    King of Cups - Old Fashion

    King of Cups

    4.4(131 reviews)
    3.2 miLincoln Park

    The best way I can describe King of Cups is to say this place is a VIBE. The theme is all-in on…read moreMedieval, from the lighting to chandeliers, candles, mirrors, chairs, drapes, and even changing digital paintings. It is definitely unique, creative, and a massive differentiator from any other cocktail bar I've been to. Now, let's talk cocktails! The creativity of the interior extends into the menu. Unlike some places that just make variations of existing classics (except for items specifically so named, like the Old Fashioned or Espresso Martini), all of their cocktails are unique and interesting. Time for a punch card? I ordered the Maximillian the Imposter. While I'm not typically a fan of banana (except for banana bread), I thought I'd step out of my comfort zone, and I wanted to try something 'flaming'. Flaming it was! The preparation of the drink involved a surprising amount of fire. I initially thought this was just for show, but no, this translated into a noticeable smoky flavor. Beyond that, the drink was strong, not overly sweet, and an all-around delight. There was one bartender on the night I was here, and while it was busy, I was still able to get my drink in a reasonable amount of time. I also feel as though they have reasonable prices, especially considering the quality and the market rates. King of Cups gets busy, and for good reason: they are an all-around phenomenal place, from the drinks to the vibe, and everything in between. If you're someone who likes a seat rather than fighting through a crowd, get a reservation! See you there!

    What a nice, moody, intimate bar. I came here for happy hour and was pleasantly surprised at how…read moreit's an actual discounted happy hour menu! You know it is these days - most places just knock a dollar off and call it a day. This one is legit! I'd say you should make a reservation for prime time to ensure you'll have a seat. However when it's early no big deal to just pop by. I enjoyed the plum Moscow mule (not too sweet!) and the espresso martini. Both are on draft which made me nervous from past experiences at other places. However, these were great and I LOVED their espresso martini. The bartender was kind and the vibes were off the charts. Check this place out next time you're in Lincoln Park!

    Photos
    King of Cups - Bar and seating

    Bar and seating

    King of Cups - Espresso martini

    Espresso martini

    King of Cups - Plum Moscow mule

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    Plum Moscow mule

    Elixir - Montage of images from Elixir

    Elixir

    4.1(119 reviews)
    1.6 miLakeview
    $$

    We have been to Elixir a few times and it is always a great choice for unique and delicious…read morecocktails! It is a cozy little bar with dim lighting perfect for a date night drink. The bartenders are always very friendly and check in often which is always appreciated. You're always immediately given little pretzels to snack on which I love as a unique touch. This time we both chose a more standard cocktail, but they also always have very unique and delicious seasonal cocktails which are always amazing! I would definitely recommend Elixir to anyone looking for a spot to grab a quick and delicious cocktail!

    On our first night in Boystown, Jamie W and I were pretty overwhelmed by the crowds at Sidetrack…read moreand Roscoe's, so we ended up coming here to make Jamie's virginal gay bar debut. It was the right move because it had the kind of chill vibe we were seeking after a long flight from SFO. Fortunately there were two seats at the bar with our names on them. Figuratively speaking. They had quite a signature cocktail list on hand, and we felt it was our obligation to try as many as we could. At least that was what we said to ourselves as the evening wore on. Each cocktail was $14. We started with a couple of familiar libations. Jamie ordered the Mint Julep, a delightfully Deep South mix of bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint (photo: https://yelp.to/u-td8LdPLj). I went further south with the Pineapple Margarita which was emboldened by a tropically potent mix of pineapple infused tequila, lime juice, and agave (photo: https://yelp.to/V-Sf6Q_2qK). We got a bit bolder with our second round and found mixed results. Jamie had the Not Your Mom's Daiquiri which amped up the margarita by blending pineapple-infused tequila with Bacardi 8-year rum. Along with fresh lime and simple syrup, this one definitely had more of a kick (photo: https://yelp.to/1ZijDf6wMV). However, my order, the Pontiac Pony, was a spicy miss for me. It was a rather oddball mix of apple-cinnamon infused vodka, pear liqueur, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and ginger beer (photo: https://yelp.to/5dQoFdzG98). There was just a harshness that didn't sit well on my tongue. Oh well, the mellow vibe was cool. COCKTAILS - 4 stars...three out of four cocktails were aces, just one clinker AMBIANCE - 4 stars...very chill, fairly quiet for Boystown SERVICE - 4 stars...cool bartenders TOTAL - 4 stars...check it out when you take a break from your Boystown cruising RELATED - Exploring Chicago? Here's my collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/44c4CZO

    Photos
    Elixir - Bar view

    Bar view

    Elixir - Not Your Mom's Daiquiri

    Not Your Mom's Daiquiri

    Elixir - Behind the bar

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    Behind the bar

    The Baton Show Lounge - lounges - Updated June 2026

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