Indulge Yourself at Narcisse

-By Nicole Shariatzadeh

Somewhere in between a dream, an illusion and a fantasy lays Narcisse. As the name implies, this lavish lounge in the Gold Coast invites guests to indulge in narcissism. Everything, from the floor-to-ceiling mirrors to the unparalleled service, reminds patrons that this champagne and caviar world revolves around them.

In this world, nothing falls short of extravagance. Walls adorned with paintings by Picasso and Degas, glimmering crystal chandeliers and velvet drapes looped with silk golden tassels embellish this Mediterranean fairyland. While ordering drinks at the mahogany bar that stretches the length of the room, patrons catch a glimpse of themselves in the gilded mirror that backs it and reminds them that while at Narcisse they are in the limelight.

The décor in this ultra-chic playland speaks for itself; but Narcisse offers more. Fantasies become realities in the plush semi-circular booths strewn with ornately embroidered throw pillows. Each booth, separated by ceiling high drapes, provides an intimate setting in which parties can create their own dream worlds. Caviar, Russian and American; more than fifty selections of champagne; chocolate covered strawberries and cigars all contribute to the making.

When the evening creeps past midnight, the crowd grows thicker. The DJ mixes underground house music that inspires many to emerge from the privacy of the booths and join others at the second bar located downstairs. The basement level VIP area houses additional booths, a small dance area and a king size bed. Few clubs in Chicago can rival this party.

Narcisse stands out in the Chicago night scene because it offers something new. While crowded dance clubs become overwhelming and nights alone at home get boring, Narcisse offers a unique atmosphere that simultaneously caters to the enthusiastic club hopper and the private individual. Choose to sit in a cushy private booth and share strawberries with your sweetheart or jump on the king size bed and meet someone to share strawberries with next time. Either way guarantees a good time.

Narcisse also incorporates another concept of great importance, emphasizing you. Here, the lengths employees and owners strive to ensure happiness are limitless. The elaborate décor, exquisite caviar selections, extensive champagne collection and pampering service all exist to satisfy your whims.

"This is your world. You can make what you want out of it. Narcisse is like a ball. Some people play baseball, some basketball, others Nerfball. But they all use the same round object and adapt it to their desires,"says Carola Johnson, part of the waitstaff at the club. "At Narcisse everyone comes to the same venue but they make what they want out of it. It's a great date place, so you might come share a bottle of champagne and be romantic. It's also a great party place, come pop a couple bottles open and just go crazy."

Jasmine Ho, 22, a frequent patron, prefers to compare Narcisse's environment to an exotic animal. "Like a tiger, Narcisse is pretty, cool and unique," she says. "I can't think of a place I'd rather be on Thursday night. It doesn't matter if I'm out with my boyfriend or my best friend, I always have a good time!"

Ali Zandpour, 28, recent patron, agrees. "A friend recommended Narcisse to me. I complained that I was tired of the belligerent drunks in the bar scene and the snotty wanna-bes in the club scene. I went for the first time last Saturday and had a great time. Cool people, good music and they have a bed in the basement! Need I say more?"

Narcisse is located at 710 N. Clark Street. Reservations recommended, call 312-787-2675. Hours: Sunday through Friday, 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. and Saturday 5 p.m. - 3 a.m. Extras: Valet and Coat Check available. Payment: Visa, MasterCard, Diners club, American Express and Cash. Dress Code: Dress to impress, no jeans, no khakis, no gym shoes, but ties are not required. Other Perks: No cover charge; close proximity to late night spots including Spy Bar, White Star, Buzz and Voyeur.

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Gabriella Nicolau, 23, met new friends at Narcisse.

Guests at Narcisse are always smiling.