So nice to be here

It’s not the fresh-squeezed juice used in the cocktails. It’s not the crazy LED lighting system, which blinks, fades and pulses in hypnotizing patterns. It’s not the art shows, the sets by famous DJs or the fashion shows the owners plan to host. And it’s not even the hot location, right next to Paul Kahan’s not-yet-open Blackbird sibling. So what is it exactly that will make Lumen worth checking out? Kindness. Sick of all the snobbery and exclusiveness in the nightlife world, high-school buddies Jason Freiman, Peter Gogarty and Nick Podesta opened Lumen with the intent to create a welcoming lounge. That means no VIP lists, no cover charges and no lines around the block—though if you’re looking for that kind of thing, they’ll kindly suggest someplace else. 845 W Fulton Mkt between Green and Peoria Sts (312-733-2222).— David Tamarkin