DATE RATER
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The basics: Your partner’s moves on the dance floor can be telling, if you know what we mean. Give it a whirl during your next date at Sonotheque, an intimate West Town club that attracts top-notch turntablists and trendy movers and shakers. Wedged between traditional brick buildings, the club’s sleek modern facade certainly sticks out. Bright lights behind the frosted glass entrance provide a nice transition to the darker bar area, which retains a futurist-chic appeal thanks to padded walls, and flashing lights and video screens.
Crowds vary depending on the music and promoter, but no matter when you stop in, everyone’s focused on the music. Try to arrive by 11 p.m. It’s late enough that you won’t be the first one there, but early enough to avoid a line and have a chance at snagging a seat on a corner couch toward the back—the perfect spot for people-watching or a clandestine makeout session.
Noise level: It’s a club, so the dial is turned way up here. Fortunately, there’s no need for conversation. Sonotheque features resident house and hip-hop DJs such as Anthony Nicholson, part-owner Joe Bryl, and renowned guest DJs such as Ron Trent, Mark Grant and Tone B. Nimble.
What to order: Sonotheque isn’t the place for signature martinis (you’re likely to get bumped by an expressive dancer), but there is an impressive liquor selection. Bartenders can make whatever your heart desires; mixed drinks range from $8 to $10, depending on the alcohol brand.
Icebreaker: Sonotheque was designed by bars and clubs concept designer Suhail. Discuss the creative design and show off your trivial knowledge of Suhail’s other creations, such as Tizi Melloul, DeLaCosta and the Wicker Park house where MTV’s "Real World: Chicago" was filmed.
Gina B.'s inside tips:
>> Cover charges vary; check sonotheque.net for the calendar of events.
>> All the other Chicago Avenue hot spots (Five Star Bar, Relax Lounge, Green Zebra) have made street parking next to impossible. Plan to spend $10 on valet.
>> If you’re cash-challenged, there’s an ATM on site.
[ RedEye sex columnist Gina B. is a Metromix special contributor. ]
metromix@tribune.com
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