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Celebrators have reported Balena is permanently closed.

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Balena
Est. 2012
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Tuck yourself away for an intimate dinner with Tuscan-rustic vibe. 
Invite your nearest and dearest for a sensational menu of Italian-inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Add in some thoughtfully made cocktails and desserts and it’ll be an evening you’ll never forget.
The Lowdown
Type
Restaurant / Private Dining
Views
No ViewStreet
Style
Classic
Elegant
Italian
Rustic
Sophisticated
Best type of Celebrations

Venue Setting

The reception area features a dedicated private bar, uniquely back-lit by a tapestry of vintage wines set into the wall and accentuated with an antique cast-iron safe (origin circa 1900). The fully-functional dining room offers a distinctive view into Balena’s Italian wine-closet, and is framed by distressed brick archways. Balena provides complimentary votives.

Capacity

Seated
150
Buffet
N/A
Standing
225
Fees
(Prices listed here are estimates only & are subject to change)
Price range

Does this include catering fees?

No

Additional charges

Sales tax- 10.5%
Service charge- 21-23%
Room Rental Fee- $150

Insurance

N/A

Connect
Event Logistics and Amenities
(Essential event logistics and amenities to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for you gathering)
Celebrations hosted here since
2012
Curfew
1 AM
Venue spaces
Indoor Venue Space Only
Catering
Client Must Use The Catering Provided By The Venue
Alcohol
Provided By Venue For Fee – You Must Use The Venue For All Alcohol Services
Corkage/Bottle Fee – You Can Bring Your Own Alcohol For A Fee
Music
Indoors Only
Smoking
Non-smoking Venue
Kid Friendly Events
Yes
Amenities
  • A/V Equipment
  • Wifi
  • Dining Tables
  • Onsite Restrooms
Inside Scoop

Balena creates our own specialty sodas based heavily on seasonality.

Awards & Notables
Awards, recognitions, or noteworthy achievements associated with the venue.
Wine Enthusiast America's 100 Best Wine Restaurants 2015
2-Star Certified Green Restaurant
Michelin Bib Gourmand 2013
2012 Eater Awards: Chris Pandel Named Chef of the Year
Celebration Locations
This section outlines the various spaces available within the venue for different types of events.
Wine Cellar
The reception area features a dedicated private bar, uniquely back-lit by a tapestry of vintage wines set into the wall and accentuated with an antique cast-iron safe (origin circa 1900). The fully-functional dining room offers a distinctive view into Balena’s Italian wine-closet, and is framed by distressed brick archways.
Upstage Dining Room
The reception area features a dedicated private bar with gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows framing the view of Halsted Street and the historic Steppenwolf Theatre.
Full Restaurant Buyout
Balena is the first combination of Boka and B. Hospitality Restaurant Groups. Chris Pandel has created a menu he calls “Honest Italian cooking.” The 10,000 square foot space designed by Karen Herold of 555, is dramatic and bright with 30 foot ceilings, a glass façade, a leather topped bar, reclaimed wood shelves, and a custom Balena clock on the back wall.

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