I don't normally go to clubs, but thought this place was great! I went to Smart Bar to see James Murphy from LCD Soundsystem who was performing a DJ set there. The cover was reasonable for such a big name. The dance floor was full but not packed, and we had a great view since it's a smaller place. I saw someone else describe this place as a "come as you are" dance club, and that is exactly how I would also describe it. It wasn't pretentious or flashy. Really enjoyed it and would go back.

I was on a party bus the other night that dropped us off at smart bar for a friends birthday. Rather stupidly I got off the bus with a beer can in hand. The door guys saw me and wouldnt let me in because of it. Everyone else on that bus was smashed off their a** so it wasnt a issue of intoxication. I had a paid ticket to the show too. They then threatened to call the police if I wouldnt leave as I kept asking they please let me in for my friends bday. In some ways I understand where they were coming from but on the other hand I find the way they handled it beyond ridiculous.

Worst bar in the entire city and trust me; I speak from experience. Stay at home and drink swill from tin cans. You'll feel better about yourself doing that as opposed to handing $15 to some douche for bad cocktails, boring music, snobby chicks and arrogant cop-like staff. Just cut to the chase and brown-bag it over on Belmont and Sheffield instead. No, seriously.

This is one of the better places to listen to electronic music in the city. The setting is more intimate than any super club, and usually the music is better, too. DJs here spin things meant for a more underground crowd, so you'll hear minimal techno and deep house instead of club progressive and brostep. A lot of old warehouse party kids come here now that they've grown up. You're also much less likely to find Mac-tapper "DJs" here, which is a good thing.

I've never made smart decision in Smartbar. With that said, its great. Like the Metro above it, its a great place to see up and coming DJs before they start selling out stadiums and areas and are headlining festivals. As well as staying true to its Chicago roots. Plenty of space to dance and people actually dance as well. Not just dry humping on the dancefloor but still some do, (its in Wrigleyville and open late after all those 2 am bars close) Staff are great. everybody is welcome. great vibe you won't find anywhere else. Where the focus is on the music and DJ and not on being scene or getting bottle service.