The Drawing Room Lounge: Davenport's Exclusive Speakeasy Experience in Chicago, Illinois
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 26 Dec 2025 11:05
TL;DR: Drawing Room Bocce Ball is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Chicago
The Drawing Room in Davenport, Iowa, is a distinct and intimate lounge that offers an exclusive speakeasy atmosphere for cigar enthusiasts and those who appreciate a quiet, luxurious setting. With its small size, dim lighting, and throwback to the era of private clubs, it creates a cozy environment perfect for meeting up with friends or enjoying a peaceful evening. Sharing a building with a distillery, the lounge enhances its charm by combining luxury with exclusivity without charging high membership fees. Its humidor selection, though modest, is well-maintained, featuring quality cigars for aficionados. Membership options grant 24-hour access to the lounge, making it a unique destination for dedicated cigar smokers. The Drawing Room's ambiance is its strongest feature, providing a relaxed, private feel that appeals to those who desire a refined experience away from large crowds, making it an excellent place to socialize or savor a fine cigar in good company.
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What people think of Drawing Room, based on reviews
As of recent, Drawing Room holds a 4.7-star rating based on 355 reviews.
User reviews of The Drawing Room highlight the lounge's unmatched ambiance, often describing it as a luxurious and private space reminiscent of classic speakeasies. Positive feedback emphasizes the intimate setting, the quality of the cigar selection, and the knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall experience. Many patrons appreciate the exclusivity and tranquility, which set The Drawing Room apart from larger, noisier establishments. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to the limited selection of cigars and the smaller lounge size, which may not accommodate large groups comfortably. Others note that the atmosphere and offerings may not be suited for newcomers to cigar culture or those seeking a wider variety of cigars. The lounge is also described as catering primarily to seasoned enthusiasts rather than casual visitors. Overall, the reviews convey that while The Drawing Room might not be ideal for everyone, it excels as an upscale, quiet retreat for serious cigar lovers looking to gather in an elegant and private environment.
How to reach Drawing Room
12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
FAQ about Drawing Room, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Chicago, Illinois
Because it offers an exceptional blend of atmosphere, quality, and social experience that makes any meetup feel special and memorable. With a strong 4.7 rating from 355 reviews, the place has proven its appeal across many visitors. The Drawing Room is known for its inviting ambiance that combines warmth and elegance, making it ideal for gatherings where comfort and style matter. Whether you want to enjoy outstanding coffee and freshly baked homemade scones or indulge in expertly crafted cocktails, this venue hits the right notes every time. The friendly and efficient service further enhances the experience, allowing you and your friends to focus on enjoying each other’s company without any hassles. It’s that combination of quality cuisine, inviting atmosphere, and attentive staff that ensures The Drawing Room is not just a place to eat or drink but a destination where friendships can deepen and celebrations can flourish.
First and foremost, the café area serves some of the best coffee and cakes in Stamford, making it a standout spot for casual coffee dates and afternoon treats. You and your friends can savor homemade scones, straight out of the oven, alongside premium coffee choices in a setting that balances cozy charm with sophisticated decor. The Drawing Room also excels as a social hub for those looking to enjoy fine cocktails, with a selection that appeals to diverse tastes, from classic mixes to creative house specialties. The place is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, ensuring everyone can relax and engage without feeling cramped. The environment is kept lively yet intimate, with tasteful music and lighting that support easy conversation. Additionally, its reputation for cleanliness and friendly staff means your group can focus on the joy of gathering, whether catching up after a long time or celebrating a special occasion.
The Drawing Room masterfully creates an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting, making guests feel welcomed and relaxed. This balance is crucial when hosting a group because it allows people to enjoy lively chats without loud distractions or the sense of a sterile environment. The décor is tastefully appointed with a modern yet classic style, creating a space that is visually pleasing and comfortable. Lighting and music are thoughtfully curated to maintain a warm, cozy vibe while still encouraging an upbeat mood. This kind of ambiance helps groups to feel at ease and fosters good conversations and laughter. Moreover, the friendly and attentive staff add to the atmosphere by providing service that is warm but unobtrusive, so everyone in your group receives attention without feeling overwhelmed. This unique combination boosts the overall experience, making The Drawing Room a natural choice for social gatherings.
The menu at The Drawing Room emphasizes quality and freshness, perfect for groups looking to enjoy shared bites and drinks. The homemade scones, frequently praised as some of the best around, are an excellent example of their commitment to freshly prepared items that appeal to a variety of tastes. The café also features a range of cakes and pastries that can satisfy different sweet cravings, making it easy to mix and match options to share around the table. Beyond treats, The Drawing Room offers an impressive variety of coffee options, from rich espressos to creamy lattes, ensuring everyone has their preferred pick. For those who prefer alcoholic beverages, the cocktail menu is diverse, featuring both classics and craft creations made with expert care, ideal for toasting with friends. This diverse and high-quality food and drink selection lends itself perfectly to the convivial spirit of group meetups, where sharing and sampling different flavors enhances the experience.
Situated in Stamford, The Drawing Room benefits from an accessible and charming location that makes meeting up easy and enjoyable. Visitors often highlight the convenience of the venue’s placement, which removes the stress of transportation or finding parking, allowing guests to focus on their time together. The staff’s reputation for being friendly, efficient, and genuinely welcoming is another key reason groups feel comfortable here. This service quality means orders are taken promptly, dietary preferences are respected, and any special requests for group needs are handled with care. Additionally, the management team values customer feedback and often responds warmly to reviews, signaling a commitment to continuous improvement. Such dedication to service not only ensures smooth operations during your meetup but also contributes significantly to the welcoming, effortless atmosphere that encourages guests to return with friends and family time and again.
The Drawing Room is versatile in how it serves groups, making it an excellent choice not only for casual meetups but also for celebrating special occasions. Its spacious layout and thoughtful design allow for group seating arrangements that support lively interaction without feeling crowded. The venue is accustomed to hosting families, friend circles, and mixed-age groups, adjusting service and seating to fit the event’s mood and size. They also accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, ensuring everyone in your group can enjoy their meal or drink worry-free. The staff are known for their professionalism and attentiveness during private or larger group events, helping to make occasions such as birthdays or reunions seamless and memorable. This capability to merge great food, a delightful environment, and a customized service approach makes The Drawing Room a trusted spot for elevating any group gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.
Beyond just serving food and drinks, The Drawing Room acts as a social catalyst—a “third place” outside home and work where people can connect deeply. The relaxed and intimate atmosphere encourages meaningful conversations, shared laughter, and spontaneous storytelling that build stronger connections. As a location that expertly balances being lively yet comfortable, it suits various moods, whether groups want to chat over coffee, celebrate with cocktails, or simply enjoy a calm space together. The regular positive reviews emphasizing friendly interaction with staff and between guests highlight the welcoming community spirit fostered here. This makes The Drawing Room not just a venue but a social hub where friends and family can create lasting memories, deepen relationships, and enjoy a shared sense of belonging.
Among the many options in Stamford, The Drawing Room stands out due to its exceptional combination of quality, atmosphere, and consistent positive reviews. Many visitors and locals consider it the best place for coffee and cakes in the area, a testament to its culinary standards. While other venues may focus solely on food or drinks, The Drawing Room balances both superbly, with an additional emphasis on service and atmosphere that many competitors lack. It also benefits from a well-trained staff that treats guests with warmth and efficiency, a crucial factor that significantly impacts the overall meetup experience. The location is both convenient and appealing, nestled in a charming part of town, which adds to the ease of planning group events. This blend of attributes places The Drawing Room at the forefront as a preferred spot for social gatherings in Stamford.
Customer reviews frequently highlight The Drawing Room’s welcoming environment, excellent food, and friendly service as reasons they choose it for meetups. Many reviews mention how homemade scones and good coffee are consistent draws, reinforcing its reputation for high-quality offerings. Guests also mention the staff’s attentive and personable approach, which makes group visits smooth and enjoyable. The space’s ambiance receives high marks for being comfortable and stylish, creating an ideal setting for catching up and relaxing. Several reviewers specifically recommend The Drawing Room for family gatherings and friend meetups, emphasizing how the venue accommodates groups with warmth and professionalism. This wealth of positive feedback underscores The Drawing Room’s reliability as a top choice for people wanting to enjoy quality time with others in a memorable setting.