When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Social Twenty-Five
Why Social Twenty-Five is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Social Twenty-Five is a distinctive two-story bar and lounge located in the Near North Side of Chicago, offering a lively atmosphere ideal for friends to gather and enjoy a vibrant night out. The venue is celebrated for its sleek design featuring wood paneling, black leather accents, and ambient blue lighting that create a stylish and comfortable setting. On the first floor, patrons can enjoy live band performances on the stage, adding a dynamic and engaging musical element to the experience. The basement lounge provides a more intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxed conversations. As the night progresses, Social Twenty-Five transforms with energetic performances by top Chicago DJs, ensuring high-energy music sets that keep guests entertained until the early hours. With its blend of aesthetic appeal, varied entertainment options, and a layout that caters to both lively and chill experiences, Social Twenty-Five stands out as a great spot to meet up with friends, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy Chicago’s nightlife. Booking guest lists or bottle service is recommended to secure a memorable evening at this popular venue. The location’s dedication to quality music and atmosphere makes it a notable player in Chicago’s bar and club scene.
Here's what people think of Social Twenty-Five
As of recent, Social Twenty-Five holds a 2.8-star rating based on 268 reviews.
Reviews of Social Twenty-Five present a mixed picture, reflected in its moderate rating of 2.8 from 268 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the energetic music scene, especially the hip hop and EDM selections, which are often a combination of new tracks and popular classics. The venue’s top floor receives particular praise for having a better crowd and overall experience compared to the basement lounge. Several positive reviews highlight the enjoyable atmosphere and quality live performances, which contribute to a fun night out. The stylish interior and the option for table or bottle service add to the appeal for many guests seeking a night of celebration. However, some negative feedback centers on the behavior of the bouncers and staff, with reports of rudeness dampening visitors' experiences. Complaints about the basement lounge suggest it is less desirable, particularly when paying for premium services like table service. Additionally, the venue’s pricing is considered high by some, which, combined with customer service issues, impacts overall satisfaction. In summary, while Social Twenty-Five is praised for its music and ambiance, its service and value perceptions vary among visitors, creating a divided customer base. Prospective guests should consider timing and location within the venue to optimize their experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
overlooked & underrated
Easily one of the worst bars I’ve been to - the staff are rude, the place is trashy (with actual trash everywhere); it’s probably the single most basic environment you could imagine. Unfortunately there are no redeeming qualities, and while I was having a great night with my friends, the 18 1/2 minutes we spent there were a joke.
Desiree McCowen
My friends and I experienced RACIAL DISCRIMINATION at this club! It was my cousins birthday, and we ended up at this place. Upon arrival, the doorman (tall heavy set white guy) told us that it was 20 dollars per person to get in. We decided that was reasonable, and waited outside for the rest of our group to arrive (other beautiful black women)... While waiting he tells a group of white guys that ladies are actually free entry...when we ask him about it he switches back to the lie he initially told us, $20 per person. We decide to brush it off, and just pay the $20 since it was my cousins birthday, and we just wanted her to have a good time. When the rest of our group arrived he changed the "entry requirement" now it was "VIP TABLES ONLY". however they let multiple groups of white men and women in with NO MENTION of VIP or a table! This was clearly discrimination! This was the only club in the area playing hip-hop music, yet they discriminate against people of color?! Reading the reviews of this establishment further confirmed what I've already concluded. Social Twenty-Five is a disgustingly racist club. I will be reporting to the Better business bureau!
Adri Takacs
We had a blast! The bar itself is super fun! They had a live band that did a really great job playing throwbacks and current songs. Everyone seemed to be having a great time dancing. Unfortunately, the drinks were not that great. For about $12-15 a drink...I was not impressed. Worst Tom Collins and whiskey sour my boyfriend and I had ever had. If they could amp up their drinks, the bar would be 5 stars!
Kay Russell
This place is not very professional. They seem to only pay attention to belligerent customers and ignore actual paying customers. They don't respect the time or money of patrons. They said there was a guest list, but that was a lie. They tried to extort us out of $40 after the commotion had died down. It also seems like they weren't letting in black women. They let everyone else inside - even those that they didn't check the "guest list" - without a hassle. I'm never going to even try to spend my money here again.
Lauren Goebel
Extremely saddened that it's 2018 and we're still living in a country that is explicitly racist. I've come to this establishment probably 4 or 5 times and never had any problem. When I showed up this evening with black boyfriend, whom was dressed very nicely and well put together, we were turned away because at 10:30 pm it was "guest list only." We were told to come back at 2 am. A group of WHITE people were behind us were able to walk right in with no questions and no mention of this so called "guest" list. We watched many other groups like them, male and female go in right after us as there was NO line. My white female friend had gone in 5 minutes before us with no issues. She mentioned to the bartender that we were outside but not being let in because it was "guest list" only and he looked confused. He said he had no idea what this "guest list" was. I'll add this to the list of racist bars along with Bottled Blonde and Boss Bar. The bouncer knew exactly what he was doing and will continue to do it. We stood outside for about 5 minutes waiting for my friend to come meet us and watched him turn away all non-white people.
How to reach Social Twenty-Five
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Why Social Twenty-Five may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Social Twenty-Five with your friends? Social Twenty-Five offers a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere perfectly suited for gathering with friends or family for a memorable night out. Located in Chicago's Near North Side, it stands out as more than just a typical bar or nightclub; it is a lively two-story venue combining sleek design, live entertainment, and energetic music that creates an immersive social experience. Whether you and your group are looking to enjoy live local bands on the first floor or dance to top DJs spinning hip hop and EDM on the basement level, Social Twenty-Five is designed to cater to diverse tastes. The venue's stylish ambiance, featuring black leather, wood paneling, and cool blue lighting, fosters a chic yet comfortable environment ideal for socializing. Its popularity and energy make it a hub for groups wanting to celebrate, unwind, or just enjoy Chicago’s nightlife together, allowing everyone to find their own rhythm either way—from relaxed lounge vibes to dance floor excitement. Plus, with table service options and a variety of bottle deals available, it's tailored to keep your group’s night smooth and hassle-free, offering an excellent place to rally and create lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Social Twenty-Five? Social Twenty-Five boasts a host of activities that make it an excellent destination for group meetups. The first floor often features live band performances, allowing you and your friends to enjoy authentic live music ranging from local acts to up-and-coming artists, creating the perfect soundtrack to a casual and interactive night out. For those who prefer to dance, the basement lounge brings a high-energy vibe with Chicago’s top DJs delivering back-to-back sets primarily focused on hip hop and electronic dance music. The blend of live music and DJ sets caters to all moods of the evening—whether you want to groove to the beat or relax and listen. Beyond the music, the venue offers a full bar with a variety of craft cocktails, local beers, and premium spirits, great for sampling unique drinks or sticking to classic favorites. Also, Social Twenty-Five’s layout—with its two distinct floors—means groups can split up or come together easily, suiting different preferences throughout the night. For those booking in advance, bottle service and VIP tables help elevate the party experience, making it ideal for celebrations with friends or family.
Why is Social Twenty-Five perfect for group meetups? Social Twenty-Five’s design explicitly caters to groups looking for a social night out. The division into two floors creates varied spaces that appeal to different tastes, ensuring group members can find their comfort zone. The first floor’s live music stage is a great spot for groups wanting a more laid-back vibe where conversation and live entertainment go hand in hand. Meanwhile, the basement offers an energetic dance floor and lounge atmosphere for groups eager to let loose and dance the night away. Additionally, the venue’s focus on table service and bottle deals is particularly advantageous for groups because it allows you to have your own dedicated space without the hassle of waiting at the bar. The guestlist and VIP options add exclusivity and convenience, helping groups avoid long lines and enjoy personalized service. Situated in a vibrant area full of bars and other nightlife options, Social Twenty-Five anchors a fun night that can start early with casual drinks and live music and grow into a high-energy party scene later.
How does the ambiance contribute to your group experience? The ambiance at Social Twenty-Five is a critical factor in why it’s a great meetup spot. The sleek decor with dark wood panels, black leather seating, and subtle blue lighting creates a modern and stylish environment that impresses guests upon arrival. This sophisticated setting strikes a balance between upscale and welcoming, encouraging groups to feel both special and relaxed. The lighting and layout support social interaction, making it easy for groups to gather together while also allowing quieter corners for intimate conversations. The presence of live bands on the first floor and DJs downstairs adds layers to the ambiance, shifting the energy as the night progresses from mellow to vivacious. Social Twenty-Five’s ambient music choices, including a mix of current hits and popular throwbacks, ensure that the musical backdrop stays fresh and appealing for all age groups and musical preferences within your party. Together, these elements contribute to a memorable group atmosphere that’s ideal for socializing and celebration.
What do visitors say about their experience at Social Twenty-Five? Visitors’ reviews of Social Twenty-Five show a mixed yet generally positive picture, with many praising the venue’s atmosphere and entertainment options. Guests frequently highlight the quality of the music, noting that earlier in the night live performances set a great tone, and later, the DJ sessions elevate the party vibe with a good mix of hip hop and EDM. The spacious two-level layout is appreciated for offering different environments, although some guests advise aiming for the top floor for a better crowd and overall experience. Reservation holders often mention that bottle service and VIP tables make group nights smoother, providing comfort and exclusivity that enhance enjoyment. On the other hand, some critical feedback notes issues with entry waits or less favorable impressions of the bottom floor compared to the upper level. However, the venue remains a favored spot for many locals and visitors who seek a fun and energetic night out with friends. Overall, Social Twenty-Five’s balance of live music, DJ entertainment, and stylish setting appeals well to groups looking to celebrate or gather in Chicago’s nightlife scene.
How accessible and convenient is Social Twenty-Five for a group outing? Located in Chicago’s Near North Side, Social Twenty-Five benefits from being in a lively nightlife neighborhood that is easily accessible by public transportation and ride-share services, adding convenience for groups. The area around the venue is pedestrian-friendly, encouraging pre- or post-event exploration with nearby restaurants, bars, and attractions close at hand. Social Twenty-Five’s two-story setup enables flexibility for group sizes, whether you have a small circle looking for a more intimate setting or a larger crew wanting to fully take over tables with bottle service. By booking ahead, groups can secure spots avoiding waiting times and maximize time inside the venue socializing and enjoying the evening rather than queuing outside. The venue is known for a stylish yet approachable vibe, which makes it a suitable choice for a variety of occasions such as birthdays, casual meetups, or after-work socials. The overall convenience and amenities offered elevate the group’s experience from simple night out to a well-orchestrated social event.
What type of cuisine and drinks can complement your meetup at Social Twenty-Five? While primarily known for its drinks and entertainment, Social Twenty-Five offers a bar menu that complements its social atmosphere well. The focus on craft beers, including local IPAs, along with curated cocktail selections, makes for enjoyable drink options that appeal to varied palates within a group. Many guests appreciate the thoughtful drink offerings that go beyond standard bar fare, allowing groups to toast to special occasions or sample innovative mixes. Although the venue’s menu is lighter compared to a full-scale restaurant, the available appetizers—such as crab cakes, calamari, and cured meat boards—are designed to share, fostering a communal dining experience at the table. These shareable options help keep guests satisfied without detracting attention from the music and social vibe. For groups focused on celebrating with an emphasis on beverages, Social Twenty-Five provides just the right balance of snacks and drinks to keep everyone refreshed and energized through the night.
How does Social Twenty-Five compare to other nightlife options in Chicago? Compared to other Chicago nightlife venues, Social Twenty-Five holds a unique spot thanks to its combination of live music focus, well-curated DJ sets, and stylish yet comfortable environment. Unlike larger nightclubs that may emphasize only dancing, this venue offers the versatility of live bands, appealing to diverse tastes and making it attractive to friends or families seeking an upscale but relaxed outing. Its two-floor design enables a variety of experiences all under one roof, a feature not always found in the city’s bars or clubs. Some other clubs in the area may focus heavily on EDM or rap scenes, but Social Twenty-Five balances these genres with local live band performances, providing musical variety. Although the rating of 2.8 reflects a mix of opinions, the venue’s popularity for bottle service bookings and group events underlines its appeal for those looking to host a social night with friends. This blend of factors positions Social Twenty-Five as a competitive choice for Chicago nightlife that caters well to groups wanting both live entertainment and a party atmosphere.
In summary, Social Twenty-Five offers an attractive, multifaceted nightlife destination for anyone wanting to host a meetup with friends or family in Chicago. Its dual-floor layout, lively music scenes ranging from live bands to DJ sets, and stylish ambiance set the stage for a memorable social experience. With ample drink selections, shareable snacks, and VIP service options, Social Twenty-Five provides the ingredients that make group gatherings smooth, enjoyable, and festive. Despite some mixed reviews, the venue is widely recognized for its good energy, convenience in a nightlife-rich area, and variety of social spaces, making it a sensible choice for your next group outing.