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Chicago
Tel: (312) 227-6859
Review by Maggie Anderson
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The Artful Dodger is a corner bar in Wicker Park that is a gothic
cross between a tavern and a dance club. Scarcely lit, the eerie
darkness makes glow-in-the-dark drinks the Dodger trademark. The
specialty drinks (one tequila based, one vodka based) are lit up
with glow sticks. Stumbling through, the only light to be seen is
purple or green glowing glasses.
Karyn Klocek, age 22, is a lifeguard and a full-time student from Schaumburg, Illinois. When I asked for her insights, she oozed, "I can't think of any great way of putting this, but The Artful Dodger had a great atmosphere, cool drinks and friendly people. Just the fact that they put a glow stick in my drink made my night!" Mardi Gras beads have been draped over the hanging lights to add to the Dodger's atmosphere. In the back room, there is a DJ who spins for himself and experiments with new sounds until the crowd forms. Then he plays dance music like the Beastie Boys and Dee-Lite. Surrounding the dance floor were murals that consisted of Medusas and skulls and wide open screaming mouths. A talented artist with a dark, trippy side deserves some recognition - especially in a dance club setting. The crowd was spiked with artists. You know - they had that artsy aura without being overly eccentric. The service was wonderful because the bartenders were attentive and hospitable. The booths were big and cushioned and comfy. The Artful Dodger is a perfect place for a casual gathering of friends or a date night or a night alone just to chill out and have a quiet drink.  |