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Back in time with The Blue Line Print E-mail
Written by and photos by VINCE GIANDONATO   
Wednesday, 14 September 2005
Under the rumble of the “L” trains overhead, you will find one of the slickest places around. The “Blue Line,” built like an old time silver diner car, is soo much more than meets the eye. What would appear to be a greasy spoon reveals a truly classy place with an easygoing pace perfect for the hipster neighborhood it is in. Reminiscent of '20s-era speakeasy, the club car serves up food standards with interesting new twists as well as exciting new dishes.

The Blue Line Club Car
1548 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 395-3700

Hours: 4 p.m. to midnight Mondays through Thursdays; 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays; closed Sundays; kitchen closes one hour before close
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ATMOSPHERE

Stepping through the doors you feel transported to another era. Inside it can be dark, but there's a warm glow provided by chandeliers, a fireplace, and plenty of candles. The booths are comfy, which is good because they are the only seating option other than the bar. Either way you go, soak it in, and enjoy.

CROWD

Beware that some of the patrons here can be a little aloof, easily balanced out by the fun lovers who come to eat, drink, and be merry. Hipsters, hippies, slackers, yuppies, blue collars, white collars, among others populate this group of mostly 21-35 year olds. The club car's patrons are young, hip, suave, and good looking. You will fit right in.

ENTERTAINMENT

Televisions playing movies, a hoppin' juke box, and a wide array of theme nights provide the entertainment for you at this joint. Sadly, you will not find much by way of live music here, mostly because there is just not enough room! I am not saying that this place is small, but it is jam packed with big comfy booths and hi-tops, perfect for “board game night.” Playing Connect Four with a couple of cocktails in you adds a whole new dimension to the game…Just remember where you are though, across the street is the double door, so you can always catch a show before or after dinner and come back for drinks.

SPIRITS

Martinis. If you do nothing else, have a damn martini. They make a pretty good one. There are also mojitos, $1 Jell-O shots (a favorite for a cheap nite), as well as beer (domestic, imported, and the 40 oz variety) Yeah you just read 40 oz, they have a 40 oz night once a month. So drink up.

GRUB

Though the names may be familiar, the food is anything but ordinary. Everything from the burgers to pasta to salads has been given a dose of “hip” that fortunately also equals a dose of “extra tasty.” I highly suggest the meat loaf sandwich for a new twist on old comfort food. The salads are big and fresh, with the same unique spin, turning a chicken Cesar into a southwest chicken Cesar salad with spicy adobo dressing.

PRICES

Prices are moderate with occasional higher anomalies, but you don't have to bust the bank to have a good time,

WHY IT'S UNIQUE

The club car combines retro style with modern flare to create a one of a kind dining experience. Enjoy the rumble of the train overhead as you come and go, and when you do, stop for a moment and look around. This is the Chicago of the movies, a swanky diner, a dark night, a rumbling “L” train; an adventure is sure to begin here.

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