The new location for Chicago saxophonist Fred Anderson's Velvet Lounge features a less worn-down atmosphere than its former home on South Indiana Avenue, where a wide range of jazz greats played since 1982. Still, Anderson says, "It's pretty different, but we tried to bring some of the old ambience from the old place," including chandeliers that longtime Lounge-goers requested make their way to the new spot. So far regulars and an increasing array of new fans have populated the club, which features a consistently rotating schedule aside from regular Sunday night jam sessions. Anderson says it's feels good to have his classic club open again and describes the new location as "nice and cozy."
Getting There
Parking:
Free Lot and Street.
Free Lot: After 7 p.m. at Michigan and Cermak.
Public Transportation:
CTA Bus: #3, #4, #21. Red Line Train: Cermak-Chinatown.
Wheelchair Access:
Yes
The Basics
Hours:
8 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday-Friday, Sunday; 8 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday; closed Monday and Tuesday except for the last Monday of each month, 8 p.m.-2 a.m.
Alcohol:
Full Bar
Smoking:
No
Admission Price:
$5 Sundays. $10 Wed-Thu. Cover varies Fri-Sat, usually $15-$25.
