SafeHouse Chicago, a spy-themed restaurant and bar marketed as “a place for hungry and thirsty spies to seek refuge,” has been building buzz in the trendy River North district ever since it opened earlier this year.
“Who doesn’t want to escape the everyday for an hour or two and become an international superspy?” said Agent BB, aka Greg Marcus, president and CEO of The Marcus Corporation, which owns the spy-themed venue. “Fascination with the world of espionage persists in novels and movies, making the SafeHouse concept one that stands the test of time. Spying is, after all, the world’s second oldest profession.”
SafeHouse Chicago is covertly located on 60 E. Ontario St. Its semi-hidden entrance is marked with a sign labeled International Exports Ltd. that is flanked by a gaslight and an iconic red door. Visitors are required to provide a password or complete a top-secret clearance test to gain entry. Once inside the venue, guests are asked to create their own agent names and are tasked with completing various spy missions.
The original Safe House Restaurant in Milwaukee opened in 1966 and SafeHouse Chicago puts a modern spin on the Midwestern concept while still honoring its historic spy roots with nods to famous franchises such as James Bond. The restaurant menu includes handcrafted cocktails and upscale bar food. Chicago Magazine readers voted SafeHouse Chicago as having the “Best Burger” in town, tied with Au Cheval.
SafeHouse Chicago offers private event space for parties of 12 and larger. The venue is also located next to EscapeHouse Chicago, which can host an escape-room-style teambuilding experience for groups. Combined rates are available.