Everyone’s Welcome. Everyone’s Safe.
For 35 years, Beat Kitchen has been a space where Chicago’s music community can come together to perform, to listen, to connect. That happens because we’re committed to making sure everyone who walks through our doors is treated with respect and feels safe.
What that looks like:
We don’t tolerate discrimination of any kind – racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ageism, or anything else that makes someone feel unwelcome or unsafe. This venue works because people from all walks of life can show up and just be themselves. We protect that.
About IDs (yes, we really need to see them):
Unless a show has been designated ‘All Ages’ we’re required by law to verify that everyone entering is 21+ with a valid government-issued physical ID or official state digital ID, currently only available via Apple Wallet. Photos or screenshots of your ID are not legally acceptable, and therefore our door staff can’t make exceptions.
We know it’s frustrating if you forget your ID, but this isn’t arbitrary — it’s about protecting our liquor license so that we can stay open and keep hosting shows, and making sure everyone here is legally allowed to be in a space where alcohol is served. Our door staff are doing their jobs and following the law. If you’re turned away for ID reasons, it’s not personal and it’s not negotiable.
If something goes wrong:
Our team is trained to step in if anyone’s safety or well-being is compromised. If someone’s behavior crosses the line, they’ll be asked to leave. We’d rather have that conversation than let anyone feel threatened or disrespected in our space.
Thanks for being part of this.
This venue exists because of the community that shows up night after night. Help us take care of each other, and we’ll keep the music going.