Signature Lounge
Chicago, IL 60611-1894
Phone: (312) 787-9596
- Cross Street:
- Chestnut Street
Editorial Review for Signature Lounge – by Citysearch Staff
The Scene
Starry-eyed couples, business travelers and in-the-know tourists ascend to the Hancock Building's dimly lit 96th floor to take in the best view of Chicago. Buttery leather booths and clusters of tables look out floor-to-ceiling windows on the north, south and west sides (the east side--facing Lake Michigan--is the province of the 95th floor's Signature Room restaurant).
The Draw
Though evenings can get quite crowded, the lounge delivers a B-17's perspective on Oak Street Beach, downtown skyscrapers and Michigan Avenue, without the sweaty lines and lengthy video histories found at other attractions. The menu includes wines by glass and bottle, martinis and fruity house drinks; patrons may also order appetizers, sandwiches and desserts until midnight daily. Though most drinks and snacks come with typical Mag Mile price tags, money's no object here: Feeling on top of the world in Chicago's third-tallest building is what it's all about.
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Insider Tips
Save MoneyDespite its one-drink minimum, the lounge boasts a higher view and later hours than the 94th-floor Hancock Observatory for about the same price (or less).
When to GoClear days offer the best visibility, early evenings host colorful sunsets, and nights provide live jazz and romantic views of the city alight.
Where to SitThe lounge's left side (south) features views of Lake Michigan and the Sears Tower.
Know Before You GoThe ladies' room also offers an astounding south-facing view.
User Reviews for Signature Lounge
05/26/2008 Posted by nonemcnone
While the Signature Lounge might have some appeal to tourists who have never been to a big city and are excited to be on such a high floor with nice views, it is a complete fraud for all others. You wait on a line expecting to be brought up to a nice, classy establishment with a view. When you get up there, you feel like youre in a cheap casino or a waiting room at a VFW hall. Not only this, but people hop tables like animals trying to get closer to the windows so they can actually see the view. I brought my fiance here and quite frankly was embarrassed. Places like this in other cities actually plan and design so they are worth the inflated drink places, but the Signature Lounge is happy to just take your money. Poor reflection on the Hancock Building and Chicago in general. Don't waste your time, trust me.
Pros: Carpet from 1970's brings back nostalgia, decent mojitos
Cons: Pretty much everything.
11/25/2007 Posted by gychii
The Signature Lounge is one of my favorite spots in Chicago. Go up in the winter evenings for happy hour or during the daytime for afternoon drinks on the weekend. The view is spectacular, the bar itself upscale feeling, and if you tip well, the service pretty darn good. The mixing can be hit-or-miss, so I always settle for a nice Bailey's on the rocks, which always satisfies. A great experience if you take the time to relax and enjoy.
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