Last year, Cheeky Chicago penned our list of favorite local music venues. Chicago surely has its share of worthy venues from which to choose, but among our easy favorites was Lakeview’s local lair, Schubas. Located at the corner of Southport and Belmont, Schubas is co-owned by brothers, Chris and Mike Schuba. Naturally, when we heard the news of the brothers’ brand new musical-meets-real estate endeavor, Lincoln Park’s newest venue, Lincoln Hall, we couldn’t wait to explore. Located in the old Three Penny Cinema building (across from the Biograph), Lincoln Hall stands not far from where Chicago’s legendary music club, Lounge Ax once was (which sadly closed its doors in 2000).
Schubas has built its reputation on preserving an intimate environment in which to see first-rate acts (artists who have performed there include The Shins, Andrew Bird, Cat Power and Feist) in a cozy space that holds under 200 patrons. Lincoln Hall, however, joins such mid-sized venues as the Double Door and Bottom Lounge, holding 500 people at capacity. But what can we expect from Lincoln Hall? Schubas and Lincoln Hall Communications Director, Tim Stephans, was kind enough to give us the inside scoop on what makes the newest venue in town so darn cheeky.
Schubas is known for its intimate atmosphere, stellar sound and cordial staff – it’s no surprise that Lincoln Hall boasts similar qualities, according to Stephans. “Quality bookings, great sound and a hospitable staff” await patrons at Lincoln Hall, but the room itself differs aesthetically from its sister venue, as Stephans points out Lincoln Hall’s more “modern” look. “Schubas is plenty nice, but it’s a 20-year-old business in a 100-year-old building, so it has the natural character that accompanies that age; Lincoln Hall was built from the ground up, with the help of experienced club owners, designers and acoustic engineers.” Included in the venue’s 8,400 square-feet are two levels, each stocked with full-service bars, clear sight-lines and a warm atmosphere. When asked how Lincoln Hall differs from other mid-sized venues around the city, Stephans reiterates the venue’s “homey atmosphere” for hosted bands and patrons, and emphasizes its state-of-the-art sound. “We’re excited to (have the space to) regularly bring in bands that would normally sell out Schubas.”
For those with emotional (or perhaps gastro-economic) ties to Schubas’ culinary counterpart, Harmony Grill, don’t fret – the Schubas kin strongly believe in the blending of music and munchies, as Lincoln Hall too offers a full menu and chic dining area. (Rest assured – this menu also includes Harmony Grill’s legendary Mac and Cheese, which makes my stomach growl just thinking of it.) Though we admit it might be a tough dish to beat, Stephans also recommends the Buffalo Chicken Satay (breaded chicken strips slathered in a spicy-sweet buffalo glaze, $6), as well as Lincoln Hall’s tried-and-true hamburger ($9), which is embellished with caramelized onions and served on a brioche bun.
With shows like Mike Doughty, Jay Farrar & Ben Gibbard and Vic Chestnutt under its belt, Lincoln Hall sets a high precedent for itself already. Stephans tipped us off to some of the venue’s hottest upcoming shows, including two consecutive nights of The Walkmen (November 12 and 13), featuring The White Rabbits. Of course, we’ll still show Schubas plenty of love – after all, it remains one of our favorite local haunts. But Lincoln Hall is a welcome addition to Chicago’s concert scene. It looks like the Schuba Bros. are conquering the world – one local venue at a time.
Photos by by Clayton Hauck
