It's last call for a beloved Chicago institution, and there will be no encore.
Hidden Cove, the beloved late-night karaoke bar in Lincoln Square, is set to close its doors on Monday, September 15. For decades, this unassuming spot at 5338 N. Lincoln Ave. has been a haven for anyone seeking to belt out classics (or not-quite-classics) like Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” or David Allan Coe’s “You Never Even Called Me By My Name” into the early hours of the morning.
According to a report in Block Club Chicago, the closure comes as the building's owner, Flavius Ardelean, plans to redevelop the property into a four-story, mixed-use brick building. Ardelean acquired the property in 2023 and had discussions with Bonnie Brown, one of Hidden Cove’s owners, about the future of the business, which is on a month-to-month lease. The bar's owners decided not to renew its liquor license when it expires on September 15 and, as a result, Hidden Cove will cease operations.
The announcement has left the community in mourning as they take to Reddit. Bars that retain the same amount of authenticity as Hidden Cove are few and far between, and the loss is a major blow. Unlike many modern karaoke venues, it offered a no-frills environment where patrons could focus on the music and the moment, and the dimly lit interior, eclectic mix of songs and communal spirit created an atmosphere that was both intimate and exhilarating.
As the final night approaches, patrons are already hard at work planning one final blowout singalong. For those wishing to experience Hidden Cove one last time (or even for the first time), the bar will continue to operate until its closure on September 15. It's a chance to sing your favorite tune, share a drink with friends and pay tribute to a venue that has been a staple of Chicago's nightlife for decades.
As the city evolves, so too does its landscape. While Hidden Cove may be closing its doors, look for its enthusiastic singers to take their talents elsewhere. What will be the next karaoke hotspot? We can't wait to sing about it.