The hobos of Old Town have upgraded to a classier suite as former underground dive bar Hobo's on Wells gets evicted in favor of the New York-style Suite Lounge. Enter the space and find two fully-stocked bars to your right, then mingle with the crowd at one of the cocktail tables to your left (Lucite stools and thoughtful purse racks spice 'em up a bit). A bit too peopled for your pleasure? Rent out a private "suite," a small space encased in sheer fabrics born for sharing bottle service with friends. Wherever you park it, you'll be treated to a soundtrack of Ibiza-style spinning and a splash of romance: lighting leans toward dim, votive candles abound and a rose petal-strewn fountain babbles away.
With a mere "S" on an awning to identify it, the 1,800-square-foot Suite Lounge lies at the bottom of a flight of stairs and down a flagstone-lined alley. Such tucked-away behavior would normally indicate a superiority complex, but you'll find none of that at Suite. If the owner's on hand, he'll gladly shake yours to welcome you to his hang, and the gracious staff gets a kick from describing the specialty cocktails (understandable, since drinks like the whipped cream-topped Carrot Cake martini are pretty swell).
Other exotic martini seasonings include frozen grapes and pop rocks. Such festive libations don't come cheap (drinks average $10-$13), but owners are willing to waive the cover so you can get loaded without too much worry. Style tip: The crowd tends to be of the young professional caliber, so parade your Polo with pride.
Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg