Chicago Area - Happy Hour Business Reception Location

Question

Am looking to host a happy hour type reception featuring a particular country's wine in the Chicago area next month. Likely around 30 people. What would be perfect would be a larger liquor/wine store with event space (Total Wine usually has these, but there don't seem to be any in the area), or a space which will allow outside alcohol. MUST be able to do a PowerPoint presentation. We will be inviting people throughout the area from as far out as Joliet, Naperville, Barrington, Northfield and, of course, Chicago proper. Any suggestions?

Answer

For your happy hour reception featuring a particular country's wine, here are some venue ideas in the Chicago area that can meet your needs for a larger space, the ability to do a PowerPoint presentation, and possibly allow outside alcohol:

1. Wine Shops with Event Space

While Total Wine doesn't have locations in Chicago, there are other specialty wine shops in the area that offer event space or may allow outside alcohol for private events:

Binny’s Beverage Depot (Multiple Locations): Binny’s has several locations across Chicago and the suburbs, and some of them have event space for hosting private events. They offer wine tastings, and you may be able to arrange a private happy hour with a PowerPoint presentation. They may allow outside wine, but it’s best to confirm with each location in advance.
Wine Disciples (Chicago): This wine store offers wine tastings and private events. It’s a smaller space, but they’re known for hosting events with wine pairings and educational components, which could pair well with your PowerPoint presentation.

2. Restaurants & Bars with Event Space

If you're open to venues that serve food along with your wine, some restaurants and bars have great event spaces and may allow outside alcohol if you work with them to plan your event:

The Hampton Social (River North): A trendy spot with a large event space that could accommodate a group of 30. They specialize in a relaxed but upscale atmosphere, which would be ideal for a business reception. Check with them about the ability to bring outside wine and presentation equipment.
Fulton Market Kitchen (West Loop): This venue has an industrial-chic vibe with a large open space. They have a private event area that can accommodate your group size and may allow outside alcohol if you discuss with them ahead of time. It also has audiovisual equipment, including screens for PowerPoint presentations.
The Chopping Block (Lincoln Square): Known for offering cooking classes and private events, this space may be a bit more hands-on, but they have a large event space and offer wine tasting experiences. They have multimedia capabilities, so a PowerPoint presentation would be easy to set up.

3. Event Spaces with AV Equipment

If you don't mind a more traditional event space that offers complete multimedia capabilities, there are several venues in the Chicago area that specialize in business events and have wine options available:

The Ivy Room (River North): A beautiful private event venue that can accommodate up to 150 people. It’s ideal for business receptions and can accommodate presentations, including PowerPoint slides. They also offer wine and liquor packages and may be open to outside alcohol if discussed ahead of time.
Spaces (Multiple Locations): A co-working space that offers private rooms and event areas. Some locations may allow outside alcohol with approval. They’re well-equipped for presentations with full audiovisual support, including projectors and screens.

4. Additional Suggestions

It’s always a good idea to contact venues directly to discuss their policies on outside alcohol, as some may charge corkage fees or have specific requirements for private events. Be sure to ask about the availability of AV equipment for your PowerPoint presentation. If you're willing to explore venues outside the city, many suburban locations offer great spaces with easy access from Joliet, Naperville, and Barrington. Also, check for any venue that offers a wine-focused ambiance, as this could align well with your event's theme.

Good luck with your event planning!