Detail for Sidetrack : Nightclub / Gay

[an error occurred while processing this directive]


Popular hangout for the free gay singles in the neighborhood; TVs are everywhere in this video bar. Great selection of frozen drinks. Theme changes nightly. - sys, 02/27/2000

One of Chicago's most popular gay bars, with different theme nights every day. Features show tune night, early '80's night, comedy, '50s - '60s night, top 40 music night, and '60's - '70s night. - alotta, 01/09/2000

I have been going to Sidetrack since its first year and while I agree that there are a lot of men there who seem to be there only to Stand and Model', most of the folks are open and friendly. I'm well over 50 and not pretty by any means, but people have always been friendly to me, especially the staff (mostly-there have been those that are full of themselves, but they usually don't keep the job long) bar. Those who complain about the attitude of those at the bar, should check their own. My lover used to have the same idea, but after going there a few times and getting to know folks, he now admits how



wrong he was. - Rick K, 09/03/2005

sidetrack's used to be ok but i havent been there in a while it sounds overrated to me whatever you do stay away from an ugly hispanic guy named francisco big loser quite ugly as well besides that sidetracks if i rated it out or 4 i guess i'd give it a 3 its ok - joe, 10/16/2003

I JUST WANNA SAY THAT I`VE BEEN GOIN`THERE FOR 15 YEARS.IT`S ONE OF THE BEST BARS IN CHICAGO.{YOU COULD USE MORE AFRICAN-AMERICAN PATRONS IN A CITY THAT`S 40% BLACK}THAT HAVING BEEN SAID,ALL THE BARTENDERS HAVE MORE THAN TAKEN CARE OF ME.THEY ALWAYS PLAY JANET JACKSON,WEST SIDE STORY,AND RENT.I`LL COME THERE AS LONG AS YOU WILL HAVE ME!THANKS,TONY LACY. ALL FOR YOU! - TONYSTHECLICK@JUNO.COM, 04/04/2003

Sidetrack is Gay Chicago's gem. It started as a hole in the wall basically and has grown into the cornerstone of Chicago's Gay Community. Sidetrack is more than just a video bar. Its owners are actively involved in the community-- politically, philanthropically, and charitably. The bar is host to all shapes, sizes and types. Yes, when I started going out



to bars, Sidetrack was labeled the 'S&M (Stand & Model) Bar,' but as I matured a bit and looked at my options, I found that Sidetrack was always there with an open door, a lot of smiles and a ton of laughs. So they don't have a dancefloor. If you want to make your own dancefloor, go right ahead! Where else can you sing in unison with a barful of people to songs like 'Don't Cry For Me Argentina' and shout out the lines to 'Mommie Dearest' all on the same night? Oh and in regards to the comments about the security-- I, too, was stopped at the door once with a bag. And the coat check was full so I couldn't check it. I was pissed and had to go home. Well, it was also the night of 100 Drag Queens. What was I to expect when I got there so late? Oh well, life goes on.. I went home, got over it, and I was back there in a week. Sidetrack is worth it guys... check it out. - Rick A., 02/02/2003

I remember being dragged into Sidetrack's back in 1987 by my then gay boyfriend sidekick, Ed. At the time, people were using filled cases of beer as seating. We walked in as a room full of beautiful boys were singing 'God Bless America' with Kate Smith! I was truly in awe. Right then and there, I decided to become a fag hag! I've never had so much fun in my life as those days at Sidetrack's (I told you I love you, now get out!). Art and Pepe' are the best and I congratulate you on your continuing success. - Betty, 01/21/2003

I too had to check my bag with a thousand dollar camera in it. I didn't want to cause a scene so I did it. I told the guy at the door he could search the entire bag but he insisted that I check it anyway. (Check it or leave the bar kind of attitude.) Do they make girls check their purses too? All the other staff were very friendly and the bar looked fantastic. Beautifully decorated. Drop the silly no bags rule people. - DM, 12/11/2002

I have frequented Sidetracks for years, and would honestly say that both the bartenders and security staff are among the most friendly and courteous. They greet you very kindly when you enter and wish you a good night when you leave. Sidetrack's is also one of the nicest looking (gay OR straight) bars in the city. All this with no cover. I highly recommend it. - Another Patron, 08/14/2002

I've never gone to SideTrack voluntarily and with good reason. It's 'affectionately' known as the Stand-And-Look-Pretty bar. With few seats available and an attitude you can smell the second you walk in the door, this is the place to go if you're looking for high horses and noses turned skyward. As you walk around the place (if you can find the room to do so), you'd swear you were at a Gap-shopper convention. If you can survive ACEs (Attitudes, Crowds, Egos), you'll love SideTrack. - anonymous, 08/11/2002

The best gay bar in Chicagoland, bar none. Showtune nights are the best show in town (especially Sundays). Staff is top-notch, they pour the best drinks around. Two words sum up the establishment : CLASS ACT. - FOS, 7/12/2002, 07/18/2002

I have traveled far and wide across this globe and I can tell you that this gay bar is the best time to be had. Strangers sing arm and arm together in an atmosphere of fun and flirtation. Showtune and comedy nights are favs of mine. Do yourself a favor and stop into this bar for a drink or two...or three...or four... - Maxwell Drake, 08/24/2001

Tell us about your experience at Sidetrack
1 planet: Below par, skip it.
2 planets: Has redeeming facets.
3 planets: Decent, worth checking out.
4 planets: Excellent, we'll be back.
5 planets: Stellar .. out of this world!
Comments:
Enter your preferred online nickname (e.g. Jimmy the Critic)
Enter your real name (used behind the scenes to link you to your reviews)
Enter email address (optional)

More Bars Near Sidetrack

Chicago Events · Chicago Restaurant Guide · Chicago Bars and Nightclubs
Chicago Points of Interest


Like us on Facebook