Review of Pops for Champagne in Chicago

June 16th, 2010

Last week, my friend and I checked out Pops for Champagne because we are considering hosting an event at this elegant champagne bar. The ambiance at Pops is undeniably bar none. The bar’s interior decorator clearly paid attention to every minute detail- from plasma televisions encased in mirrored frames, to crackle glass table tops and an intimate champagne room in the back.

Everything was impeccable…until our “food” arrived… blank stare.

Unfortunately, no one had previously provided us with the do’s and don’ts on dining (well, actually not dining) at Pops for Champagne. In true Chicago Chic fashion, I want to make sure my readers are not left in the dark.

The Main Bar at Pops for Champagne

1. DON’T EVER come to Pops with even the slightest inkling of hunger. As you can see from the picture, our plate selection was….scarce. We ordered the Finnochietta which was a sweet/dry sausage appetizer. Obviously, we ordered an appetizer so we weren’t expecting a feast. We also weren’t expecting a few slices of meat and a handful of crackers. Better yet, I would describe it as a Lunchable for the bourgeois. Seriously. Luckily, Flemings Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar is right across the street. They are currently offering prix fixe specials at $35.95 for a three course meal. Guys, if you consider bringing a date to Pops, strongly consider first taking her to a nearby River North restaurant.

2. DO consider Pops as a stop and sip spot. I ordered the Corcovado champagne cocktail, mixed with Veev Acai Spirit, Prosecco, honey and lime. In my books, it was pretty awesome.

3. DO consider going to Pops for the FREE live jazz which is every Sunday through Tuesday from 9pm – 12am.

4. DO consider hosting a champagne tasting at the venue. They have an event coordinator that will work with you to coordinate this for your group. It’s