If you’re not a VIP but want to feel like one for a night, head out to BUtterfield 8. This River North restaurant-lounge caters to trendy Chicagoans and visiting celebrities — and will no doubt impress any Northwestern patron.

Begin your BU8 experience with dinner downstairs on a “Saturday Night Fever”-esque lighted floor with chandeliers and white leather booths.

Then saunter on upstairs, where red velvet and dim lighting make the posh bar feel intimate and welcoming. While you’re sampling specialty cocktails like the Bellini Tini and Chocolate Choo Choo, keep an eye out for visiting celebrities like “Barbershop” stars Eve and Ice Cube And you’re even more likely to witness the lounge’s secret elevator open to reveal a special table of six or eight diners — allowing NU students to glimpse what their lives as successful Chicagoans could be.

BUtterfield 8 is located at 713 N. Wells St. Valet parking is $10. Hours are 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Monday-Friday and 5 p.m.-3 a.m. on Saturday. 

— Abra Annes and Mindy Hagen