Traveling the country to party cities like New York and Miami, Damian Pearson and Chemin Miller took notes on what makes a successful scene. Because Chicago appears "so segregated," they envisioned a lounge where people of all backgrounds come together for a mellow time. Thus, they opened Par Lounge, a diverse and artsy "chill spot" in Wicker Park.
Further away from the better-known and equally diverse bars on the same block, Par comes off a tad low-key, but that's the objective. "It's a good spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the bigger clubs," says Pearson. In fact, many guests discover Par totally by accident. Sitting beside the French doors, you'll see a number of passersby doing a double take and stopping in for a drink.
The design-on-a-dime furniture allows for easy rearranging (guests sit side by side on what look like fabric-coated toy chests); expect a new look every other week. Tea candles light the room where exposed brick harmonizes with copper seating and hardwood floors. Artwork donated by local and New York artists speck the walls. And depending on the furniture arrangement, a roomy dance floor allows for grooving to the sounds of house, hip-hop and reggaeton.
A friendly, beautiful cocktail waitress visits your party, baptizing you with French martinis alongside a plate of Asian tapas. On slow nights, you might invite her to sit down and join your conversation. Pearson and Miller also regularly interact with guests. Beers start at $3 and the average martini is $8.
Centerstage Reviewer: David-Anthony Gonzalez
