Bar Sun Jul 22 2007

Just RelaX

Newly opened West Town spot RelaXLounge is the prescription for whatever ails you. Owners David Lehtman and Brian Eldridge created a laid back space where a rock-and-roll meets pharmaceuticals. Until recently, the lounge was being referred to as Pharmacy and was mired in a bit of controversy. Neighborhood locals didn’t want another bar in the neighborhood and their protests resulted in a six-month wait for a liquor license, as well as a mandatory name change due an old law from the ’80s prohibiting use of the word "pharmacy" in a business name unless the business actually sells prescription drugs.

Inside you'll find a 30-foot, white subway-tiled bar lit up by candles in beakers, a vintage sign that reads "prescriptions” and beautiful chairs and other furniture all hand-built by partner Brian Eldridge. The bar features a simple menu with one-third-pound burgers and fries, a fried egg sandwich and signature milkshakes spiked with spirits (a Guinness float perhaps?) all served until close.

RelaXLounge is at 1450 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago.

- Christian