When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
After Chicago
Why After Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
After Chicago is a sophisticated cocktail lounge located in Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighborhood, known for its luxurious ambiance and stylish design. The lounge features a sleek interior highlighted by a circular glowing bar with a modern aesthetic reminiscent of Apple’s design sensibilities. There is also a private couch area with a fireplace that guests can reserve, making it an ideal spot for intimate gatherings or special occasions. The lounge offers an impressive selection of cocktails, ranging from expertly made classics to unique creations like the smoke blossom, a smoky blend of top-shelf scotch, whiskey, and subtle notes of pear and apricot. Beyond drinks, After Chicago serves delectable snacks such as crispy Vietnamese duck wings glazed with sweet and savory fish sauce, adding a distinctive culinary flair to the experience. With operating hours from late afternoon into the early hours on weekends, it is perfectly suited for after-work meet-ups or late-night celebrations. Although drinks come at a premium price point, hovering around $23, the overall quality and atmosphere make it a desirable destination for those seeking an upscale nightlife environment in Chicago.
Here's what people think of After Chicago
As of recent, After Chicago holds a 4.5-star rating based on 185 reviews.
Customer reviews of After Chicago paint a picture of a stylish and upscale lounge with commendable drink quality and a cozy, elegant setting. Positive feedback frequently emphasizes the exceptional craft of the cocktails and the lounge’s ambiance, particularly praising the glowing circular bar and the private fireplace area as unique and inviting features. Some guests appreciated the personalized service, such as complimentary birthday champagne, which enhances the welcoming vibe for special events. However, there are criticisms to consider in the review landscape. Some patrons have expressed frustration about inconsistent opening hours and customer service experiences, such as being turned away earlier than advertised, which can cause considerable inconvenience for visitors traveling from afar. A few reviews mention the relatively high prices, which while justified by the quality, might not suit all budgets. Despite some isolated service issues, the general consensus points to After Chicago as a refined and enjoyable venue for cocktails and casual bites, particularly appreciated by those looking for a luxurious night out. Overall, the balance of good atmosphere, quality drinks, and occasional service hiccups suggests it is worth visiting with a mindful expectation regarding hours and pricing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Peachy Chan
I was truly impressed by the decor and the serene, spotless ambiance of this place. The bartender was friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. I absolutely loved the cocktails perfectly balanced and crafted with care and the caviar was exceptionally flavorful. Everything felt thoughtfully curated and harmoniously put together. I'm genuinely happy for anyone who gets to enjoy this experience. I’ll definitely be coming back. Highly recommended!
Michael Uzmann
Those familiar with Curtis Duffy's career from Alinea to Avenues and onward to Grace and Ever will immediately find comfort at “After,” a West Loop Cocktail lounge that looks luxurious while simultaneously serving whimsical Food as Queens of The Stoneage jams overhead. Debuted late 2022, a glowing circular bar surrounded by posh tables dug into the walls, guests can expect gracious service and seasonality highlighting everything from classic Cocktails to fancy concoctions such as “Green Daisy” placing Tequila with young Coconut around Peas and their Pods. Priced akin to Aviary and Violet Hour, a recent menu change adding decadent “Crab Cupcakes” to longtime favorites like Vietnamese Duck Wings, best bites come from tender Carrots wrapped in spun Sugar and “Umami Crunch” plus a Duck Liver “Uncrustable” delivered with carbonated Grapes in a lunchbox. Also serving a Burger with good Fries, both on par with those at Au Cheval or The Loyalist, “Pizza Puffs” and Creme Brulee unfortunately feel pretty basic in a place where Punch includes clarified Cream and the Espresso Martini gets a Truffle upgrade.
Madelaine Wilson
Came here for pre-dinner cocktails, and left STUNNED. The Bell Pepper Daquiri is my husband’s new favorite drink. Chandler, our server, was GREAT, and recommended some fantastic spots to check out on our trip. The Cotton Candy Carrots were a surprisingly fun and delicious options, and every cocktail we had was somehow better than the last!
J
Drinks were beautiful and tasty, but had almost no alcohol. We all had three drinks and felt like we had one? The atmosphere was confusing. High end finishes and dark, with loud music that didn’t fit the mood and bartenders/waiters in T-shirts. Food bites were super fun and I appreciated the snacks were only $10 and dessert only $6.
Patrick Finn
Went to celebrate a friend's birthday since they wanted to try After. Honestly, we weren't sure what to expect! Staff were extremely friendly, especially at the bar! Attentive and not shy. The drinks were excellent. I had the NA negroni and my friend one of the alcohol offerings. We were both extremely pleased. The food was quite good but the star was the cotton candy carrot dish which came served on skewers in a wooden log. Can you ask for me? The flavors were unique and it was a fun experience . Our only criticism was the atmosphere, not of the place per say but other patrons in the establishment. Some were loud for the space but there's not much the staff could do. Overall though, we were pleased!
How to reach After Chicago
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Why After Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at After Chicago with your friends? After Chicago is more than just a cocktail lounge; it’s a sophisticated social haven that perfectly combines luxury, intimate ambiance, and exceptional hospitality to create a memorable gathering spot. Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply looking for a chic retreat after a day exploring Chicago’s West Loop, After offers a unique setting that elevates any meetup. Its sleek, modern design—highlighted by a glowing circular bar that looks like an Apple product—creates an atmosphere that is both inviting and visually stunning, giving your group a luxurious backdrop to enjoy quality time together. Beyond its stylish interior, the vibe here leans toward exclusivity but remains approachable, making it an ideal venue for groups seeking a refined yet relaxed environment. The lounge's private couch areas with fireplaces offer cozy corners for deeper conversations or intimate celebrations, ensuring that your meetup feels personal and special. In short, After Chicago brings together impeccable drinks, stylish ambiance, and thoughtful service, making it the perfect rally point for friends and family looking to connect in an extraordinary setting.
What activities can you do at After Chicago that make it perfect for a group meetup? After Chicago offers a rich variety of experiences that cater to both socializing and indulgence, which are perfect for groups. The highlight is undoubtedly their cocktail program. Their expertly crafted cocktails range from timeless classics to innovative creations like the Smoke Blossom, blending top-shelf scotch with flavors of pear and apricot, providing a sensory delight that sparks conversation and enjoyment. This focus on quality over quantity ensures everyone in the group can find something exciting to sip on. Additionally, the lounge serves exceptional bar snacks, like their crispy Vietnamese duck wings glazed in a sweet and savory fish sauce — perfect for sharing plates among friends and enhancing the social experience. Moreover, the design of the space encourages mingling and comfort, with warm lighting, plush seating, and private areas that can be reserved to accommodate the whole group comfortably. Hosting a meetup here brings not just a place to drink, but a full sensory and social experience — from fantastic drinks to an inviting atmosphere and delicious food, your group will have multiple focal points to enjoy.
How does the interior and ambiance of After Chicago enhance your group experience? The atmosphere at After Chicago is a deliberate play on modern luxury with a warm and intimate twist, designed to make any group feel both special and at ease. The main bar area stands out with a glowing circular counter that creates a striking centerpiece, perfect for gathering around and sparking spontaneous conversations. The lounge has been thoughtfully designed with a meticulous eye for detail, featuring sleek lines and understated elegance that wrap guests in a high-end experience without being pretentious. One of the key features that sets After apart for group meetups is its private couch areas complete with fireplaces, which can be reserved to give groups a cozy, secluded spot to celebrate or catch up. This blends the feel of exclusivity with comfort, providing an inviting setting that enhances social connectivity. Whether you’re there for an after-work drink, a birthday celebration, or a casual catch-up, the ambiance effortlessly elevates the mood, helping groups create lasting memories in a space both visually impressive and welcoming.
What makes the food and drink offerings at After Chicago stand out for social gatherings? Unlike many cocktail lounges focused solely on drinks, After Chicago impresses with its complementary culinary offerings that elevate the overall meetup experience. The cocktail menu showcases a wide range of options—from expertly mixed traditional drinks to inventive specialty cocktails, such as their signature Smoke Blossom, which combines smokiness, sweetness, and fruity hints into a well-balanced drink. These beverages are crafted with precision and premium ingredients, ensuring each sip contributes to the overall enjoyment of the outing. Food-wise, their small plates are thoughtfully curated to pair excellently with drinks and to serve well for sharing among groups. The standout crispy Vietnamese duck wings, glazed in a perfect balance of sweet and savory fish sauce, offer a bite that is flavorful and texturally satisfying. This emphasis on pairing quality drinks with elevated small plates encourages interaction around the table, as sharing these snacks naturally fosters a communal vibe. The combination of sophisticated drinks and delicious, sharable bites makes After a prime choice for any group looking to enjoy a full sensory experience rather than just a night out drinking.
Is After Chicago suitable for special occasions or casual meetups with family and friends? Absolutely. After Chicago strikes a balance that invites both casual gatherings and special celebrations. Its pricier drinks, averaging around $23, reflect the upscale quality of the menu and the luxurious environment, positioning it as an excellent choice for marking occasions that deserve something extra special. The attentive and polished service adds to the feeling that guests are truly valued, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just a night out to reconnect. Many patrons report being treated with thoughtful gestures like complimentary champagne on birthdays, enhancing the celebratory spirit. At the same time, the lounge’s warm ambiance and comfortable seating arrangements ensure that casual meetups don't feel stiff or formal. The setting encourages relaxed socializing, making it easy for groups of friends or family to linger comfortably and enjoy each other’s company without rushing. Whether you want the vibe of a high-end night out or the warmth of a familiar hangout spot with some class, After Chicago delivers on both counts, making it a versatile venue for a variety of group occasions.
How accessible and convenient is After Chicago for hosting group meetups? Nestled in the vibrant West Loop neighborhood, After Chicago benefits from a prime location known for its energetic food scene and nightlife, making it easy to reach and a natural stop during the evening. The venue operates primarily during the evenings, opening at 4 PM and running late into the night, which fits well with social schedules that often start after work or later in the evening. Its hours extend until 2 AM on weekends, providing flexibility for groups who want to start their night at After and continue the celebrations nearby. Ample public transportation options and ride-share accessibility make it simple for everyone in your group to arrive and depart without hassle. The fact that After offers private reservations, especially for its cozy couch and fireplace areas, means groups can secure a dedicated space that enhances the sense of privacy and exclusivity. This thoughtful combination of location, hours, and reservation options makes planning a group meetup straightforward and enjoyable, reducing stress and allowing everyone to focus on having a great time together.
Why do reviews and ratings support After Chicago as a great meetup spot? With a strong rating of 4.5 stars from 185 reviews, After Chicago garners widespread acclaim for its overall quality and experience. Customers consistently highlight the luxurious and stylish setting as a major plus—something that elevates a night out into a memorable event. Many patrons commend the cocktail craftsmanship and friendly service, mentioning how these elements contribute to a seamless and enjoyable evening. Even those who point out the higher price point acknowledge that the quality justifies the cost, especially for special occasions. While some reviews mention moments where expectations were not fully met, the overall consensus leans heavily positive, underscoring After’s reputation as a sophisticated yet accessible destination for social gatherings. Positive experiences such as being recognized during celebrations or the ability to reserve intimate spaces reinforce that After Chicago is attentive to the needs of groups looking for a distinctive and pleasurable social environment.
How does After Chicago compare to other Chicago venues in terms of atmosphere and group suitability? In Chicago’s lively bar and lounge scene, After Chicago stands out for its blend of sleek modern design and intimate, cozy spaces — a somewhat rare combination that appeals uniquely to groups seeking both style and comfort. Unlike louder clubs or purely casual bars, After leans into an atmosphere that encourages meaningful interaction within a beautiful setting, making it especially suitable for families or friends wanting to connect in a relaxed but refined environment. Its connection to Ever, a highly regarded tasting menu restaurant next door, adds to its prestige and assures patrons of the culinary and hospitality standards. While some venues might focus on high-energy nightlife or budget-friendly offerings, After’s niche is in providing a luxurious, artfully designed space where quality drinks and food complement the social experience. This makes it a top choice for groups who value ambiance and thoughtful service alongside good food and drink, positioning it as one of the premier meet-up spots in Chicago’s West Loop.
What practical tips can you follow to make the most out of your meetup at After Chicago? To maximize your enjoyment at After Chicago, consider reserving the private couch seating with fireplace ahead of time, especially for larger groups or special celebrations. This ensures your group has a dedicated space that fosters comfort and intimacy away from the main bar area. Arriving during the weekday or early evening can also provide a more relaxed environment with less crowding, ideal for meaningful conversations. Planning to indulge in their signature cocktails alongside sharable dishes like the Vietnamese duck wings can create a balanced experience of drinks plus food to keep everyone satisfied. Keep in mind that the drinks are on the pricey side, so budgeting a bit extra will ensure the evening goes smoothly without surprises. Lastly, take advantage of the West Loop’s vibrant surroundings to either start or end your night with additional exploration, making After Chicago the memorable centerpiece of your social outing.