Not situated in the Weed Street district, nor Rush and Division's sidewalk-packed scene, outside of the River North region and the Lincoln Park strip, Enclave waits for Chicago's scenesters a quiet block north of Chicago Avenue off of Wells Street. You and your fancy-shoed posse will have to go out of your way to get to this destination hotspot. But despite the location, it's well worth the car, cab, or train ride.
Pronounced "on-clave" and defined as "a unique dwelling distinct from the territory that surrounds it," Enclave does its darndest to live up to its name. Inhabiting the late digs of Polly Esther's, the renovated and revamped 15,000-square-foot, two-story haven holds three bars, great music and plenty of seating arrangements. That translates to a smidge of a bar, a pinch of a dance club and a dash of a lounge. And speaking of mixtures, a must-try drink is the American Beauty, created by mixologist Myong Park: Grey Goose Le Vanille, Grey Goose L'Orange, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, Cointreau, white creme de cacao, cream and honey, adorned with a rose petal. For those who choose bottle service, appetizers arrive in complimentary fashion. Sip, sit and be seen in one of Enclave's multi-level rooms sectioned off by sheer curtains or mix and mingle on the dance floor.
Notice the gallery of original artwork, arguably one of the finer showings among the nightclub scene. Of course, walls take the backseat amid the crowd of scantily clad girls and buttoned down boys. You'll find your usual Chicago A-listers hanging out here dressed in typical nightlife gear. Drinks are pricey, cover varies, DJs spin house and hip-hop. It's the perfect pre-party place since Enclave closes earlier than others.
Centerstage Reviewer: Janis Mabalay