Playboy Club Eyes Return to Chicago

By Chuck Sudo in News on Aug 29, 2011 4:35PM

Gone from Chicago for 20 years, plans are now afoot to resurrect The Playboy Club in Chicago, not far from where Hugh Hefner had his original club. Crain's Chicago Business reports Playboy Enterprises signed a licensing deal with Boston-based Tremont Realty Capital LLC, which is looking at 1150 N. Dearborn for a new Playboy Club.

That building currently houses Il Mulino restaurant and, it should be noted, there's no firm deal in place for the building yet. 1150 N. Dearborn is also just out of the reach of Division Street and Viagra Triangle nightlife.

There are other Playboy Clubs in the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, London Cancun and Macao. It begs the question if a standalone Playboy Club not tied to gambling or a hotel can be successful. Crain's says Playboy is hoping licensing deals can help reverse the company's sagging fortunes and also believe renewed interest in 60s swinging culture exhibited in television shows such as Mad Men and the upcoming Pan Am and The Playboy Club will spark further interest.