House Of Blues

A lot of people that I know complain about this place because they think it is too "touristy." But for me, that is precisely why I like it so much. Not only do you get to hear great live music, but you get to meet and mingle with a lot of new and different people. The food I think here is just average, but nothing to really complain about I guess. I always think this place is a good time I have have very fun nights out here. more

Dan Akroyd, Jim Belushi and other celebrity friends of theirs origionally formed a partnership and started this hugely popular chain. Probably named in tribute to the Blues Brothers and their success this club rarely features Blues music (ironically). It hosts concerts of just about every genre of music; Rock,Metal,Folk,Rap,Gospel... They are also known for their Sunday Gospel brunch and the restaurant that is inside. I personally don't care for the paintings or much of the decor. I am not a huge fan of the seating arrangement (or lack thereof) for concerts. VIPs do have seats in the balcony and there are some seats at the bar, but the majority of patrons have to stand for the entire concert. more

House of Blues will always hold a dear place in my heart, namely because I got a black eye from a guitarist who was bodysurfing the crowd during his show (I got booted in the head accidentally as he was trying to get back on stage). Like the Metro (see my other review), it is a great place to see big bands live—especially if you are standing in front of the main stage. It has an excellent sound system (I’m admittedly biased because I knew one of the sound wonks there) and a fairly intimate atmosphere that’s a bit less gritty than the Metro. Unfortunately, I’ve never eaten there (too touristy) nor have I tried the back porch area (where acoustic acts play). However, if you plan to see a band there that you truly like, get there early in line to grab a prime standing spot in front of the stage—and get ready to be pushed around later… more

I've been here for three different performances. The staff is great, the ticket prices reasonable and the food/drink available a bit expensive - but delicious. Last visit my sister and I had the fries and they were to die for. Recently there was a mix up with my credit card and they resolved it with little to no headaches. more

House of Blues offers an intimate setting for shows and hosts anyone from the Bengals to the Roots. Its always fun to dance here no matter who is playing. The place is uniquely decorated, and I think it's worth visiting just to experience the ambiance. H.O.B. also hosts free concerts once in a while, sponsored by "The Mix." I was able to see a free Ben Folds concert there, which was totally cool because they do conversations with the artist, making it even more special! more

The House of Blues in Chicago was a fun place to go for dinner. There was live music which made it very lively and upbeat. The food wasn't bad- it was the typical chain restaurant quality. We enjoyed our meal and the servers were friendly and efficient. Afterward we shopped in the gift store- it has a lot of cool gifts and things to buy. We definitely purchased a couple items. The atmosphere was fun and the eclectic decorations were great. more

Imagine, going to a concert with marble bathrooms and an attendant? Who would had thunk it? Better yet, there is strange and wonderful art behind the bar. You can even order good (but pricey) food right at the bar. There isn't much seating, if you want to be on the main floor. The place can get real crowded, but it is a nice intimate venue with the extra plus of being a plush place. To have a real expensive adventure, Shaw's is right around the corner. Don't be surprised by the price of booze, and dont' be surprised if you have to show your ID a few times, they run a tight but good ship. more

I don't like this place as a concert venue. Its first come first serve and there's limited seating so you usually have to stand during the entire concert. The inside is only two levels, not that far apart from each other so even standing sometimes you can't see to much. I saw D12 there and had to stand the whole time peering over other people but then I saw the Pink Floyd laser show there and had a better time because I could sit and face the screen. Also, it gets extremely smokey inside so beware of that. more

I've only been inside several times, but it has a very eclectic interior (to match the strange gray exterior). I ate dinner and then watched a show in the ground floor room and it was so intimate, it was great! I definitely recommend going to a concert at this venue! more

HOB had a Sunday Gospel brunch. It's well choreographed - we went as a party of 30 and they handled us (and the other 350 people) effectively. The food is standard brunch fair (omlettes and waffles) and then a bunch of southern food (fried this, fried that, veggies presented in wild and crazy purees). The live show started about 45 minutes after they let us in - it was church gospel soul music - lots of god and lord - very loud - and very energetic. Did I say it was loud? If you are a live music fan, you'll love it. If you would rather be in your living room with your great sound system (me) - it's tedious. But - overall - it gets generically high marks for production value. more