Clara is a cocktail lounge and live music venue in Wicker Park, Chicago, that can be booked for private events of up to 115 guests. A semi-private back room, the Apothecary, holds up to 50 people, and a full buyout opens the whole venue, including the stage and the piano. It is at 2027 W North Avenue.
Seminars and company events
The official site lists a corporate happy hour among the events it hosts. This is a bar, not a meeting center, so it fits after-work gatherings, team celebrations, client evenings and launch receptions rather than daytime seminars. There is no mention of projectors, screens or conference equipment, so confirm that with the team if a presentation is planned. The venue also offers a live recording format, which can suit a company that wants a performance filmed or recorded.
Weddings and receptions
Weddings are not listed as a service. The site names birthdays, engagements and showers, which makes Clara a choice for a small engagement party or a bridal shower. A full buyout accommodates a dance floor with live music, and the team can arrange performers for the night.
Rooms and capacities
The space page describes two ways to book:
- The Apothecary: a back room for semi-private events of up to 50 people. It is the only room Clara books on its own. A photobooth can be customized for the occasion, and the room can serve as an extra space during a full buyout.
- Full buyout: the whole of Clara, for up to 115 guests. It includes the stage, the piano and room to dance.
Guests must be 21 or older, and the site notes that photos and video may be taken on the premises.
Catering
Clara is a bar first, and its offer centers on drinks. For events, the team proposes a cash bar, an open bar or custom cocktails, served by the venue's own bartenders to the host's guest list. The official site does not describe a food catering package, so ask what is possible for a seated dinner or a buffet.
History and setting
Clara describes itself as a queer and woman-owned bar and performance space that combines craft cocktails with live music. The calendar shows regular concerts through the week, including jazz and organ trio nights, so an event may need to be planned around the programming.
Getting there
Clara is at 2027 W North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647, in the Wicker Park neighborhood. Requests go through the booking form on the space page, and the team says it replies within a couple of days.
