Hubbard Street Briefs

Hubbard Street, located just north of the Chicago River in the River North neighborhood of Chicago, perpendicular to Rush Street, is the perfect stroll for those seeking sophisticated dining and high-end nightlife.

Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar located at 21 E. Hubbard takes fresh seafood to a whole new level.  Its menu caters to a sophisticated palate and includes traditional seafood dishes, as well as new and experimental creations and festive, well-made cocktails.  Even those with a taste for steak will be impressed with Shaw's.  The ambiance and bow-tie clad waiters call visitors back to a different and more romantic era, in which food was a symphony for the mouth and soul, and restaurant service was still a noble profession. Price Range: $$$$. Reservation suggested.

If it weren't for the seemingly wealthy clientele, Howl at the Moon would be considered a dive bar - the most fun, highly energetic, comfortable, riotous dive bar on Earth, save perhaps the original New Orleans location.  The crown jewel of the corporation is the signature dueling pianos show which features expert musicians in an audience-participation-encouraged concert.   So how does it work?  Write your song of choice on a readily available mini-form and place it on the top of the piano - the band will pick it up and play it in order of receipt.  Be ready for a wild night, as many audience members are Landshark enthusiasts who bring the Jimmy Buffett island vibe and abandon to the big city.  Settle in with a drink or grab a bite and become part of the show. Cover Charge: $5-$10.  Price Range: $$.  Look out for weekly deals.  Located at 26 W. Hubbard.

If Hub 51 were a person, he would be tall, dark, and handsome with a spirit of mystery and an affinity for deep conversation.  He would be constantly surrounded by beautiful, enigmatic men and women with deep and overflowing pockets. Hub 51 is comfortable and ambient even after the bar crowd rolls in. The menu is filled with rich, satisfying, yet sophisticated comfort food.  Little golden lightbulbs hang over the tables, which themselves encourage exchange. If you are looking for fun, head over to the fully-stocked bar for drinks or make your way downstairs to the in house club, Sub 51. Price Range: $$$. Reservations available.  Located at 51 W. Hubbard.

Chicago puts its spin on everything. France is no exception.  Paris Club brings a European metropolis to the midwest, and it does it with style.  If Parisian flair is what you're looking for, this is the place for you.  The menu swells with traditional French cuisine spiced up with American panache.  The decor screams city in just the romantic way that a black and white photograph of Cloud Gate does.  Price Range: $$$. Reservations suggested.  Located at 59 W. Hubbard.