THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Perched on the third floor of the hotel ( which prompted a partygoer to ask, "Does that really make it a rooftop bar?" ), Raised provides spectacular views of the river and buildings such as Marina Towers—whether one is out in the open or in one of the more private areas.

The drinks were pretty intoxicating ( pun intended ), with offerings such as Spanish proposals and glasses of cava. ( There's also a housemade sangria that servers promised would be tasty. ) Guests could also nosh on items such as shrimp with remoulade; ceviche with plantains; steak satay with chimichurri; and peanut butter-and-jelly push-up desserts, among other items.

With a menu created by Executive Chef Daniel Perez, Raised features bar food with a twist, highlighting sharable plates. Perez focuses on all things local, sourcing his menu ingredients within 200 miles of Raised.

There was also a band that played mostly rock songs, and there were members of the dance collective C5 ( CreateWithNoLimits.com ) that performed in the windows of the hotel ( spelling "RAISED" at one point ) and, later, at the bar in front of patrons.

Special shout-outs should go to servers Juan and Eric, who went above and beyond to make sure patrons received the snacks and drinks they requested.

The hours of operation for Raised are Monday-Thursday at 4 p.m.-12 a.m., Friday and Saturday at 2 p.m.-1 a.m. ( 12 a.m. for terrace ) and Sunday at 11 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information about Raised, An Urban Rooftop Bar, visitRaisedBarChicago.com or call 312-372-7200.

—Andrew Davis ( @Azygous60610 )