A New Magic Spot Is Turning Chicago’s Old Mansion into a Party Hub

Chicago’s famous McCormick Mansion, once home to Lawry’s Prime Rib and a quirky Scandinavian buffet, is getting a fresh makeover. A 66‑year‑old entrepreneur who made his money in health tech is pouring about $50 million into a 36, 000‑sq‑ft entertainment center called The Hand & The Eye. He wants the place to be more than a restaurant or an escape room; he sees it as a living museum of magic that will bring people together and create jobs for the city. The vision is led by designer David Rockwell, who has built Broadway shows and luxury hotels around the world. He plans seven small theaters that seat 40 to 100 people, each with its own style and sound system. The rooms will feel like a collection of curiosities, inspired by Joseph Cornell’s boxes, and guests can move from one wonder to the next. The complex also has a dozen bars, upscale dining rooms, and special “mixing chambers” where members and casual visitors can mingle. Only the owner is investing money in the project, but he has a team of experts. Executive vice‑president Bre Smith will oversee food and service, aiming to recreate the charm of fine dining with careful table settings and personal touches. Together they want a place that feels analog, “the opposite of digital, ” with old‑school magic and modern hospitality.The Hand & The Eye is not the first Chicago magic venue, but it is by far the biggest. Other spots like The Magic Lounge and The Magic Parlour offer smaller shows or family nights, but this new complex will combine a members’ club with public dinner‑theater experiences. Members can enter through their own door, enjoy private bars, and choose shows, while regular guests pay a ticket that includes dinner and drinks. The owner hopes the venue will stay open every day, even on cold winter nights, by offering a unique experience that draws people in. The mansion itself is preserved with its historic staircase and fireplace, adding a touch of old‑world charm. The new design keeps the building’s original elegance while adding modern amenities like a cloakroom that remembers your coat. The owner believes this upscale investment will signal stability to the surrounding area and encourage other businesses to open nearby. While ticket prices have not been finalized, a spokesperson said the initial cost will start at $225, covering dinner and a three‑hour magic show. The venue plans to open with a soft launch on April 18, and the full website will go live shortly after. The project is a passion test for its owner: he wants to create a lasting legacy in Chicago’s competitive magic scene. He says the goal is not only to host great shows but also to become a place where performers can shine. The Hand & The Eye will feature historic artifacts, like a milk can from Houdini, and a custom scent in some rooms to deepen the immersive feel. The owner’s hope is that this new magic hub will revitalize the area and bring a sense of wonder to city residents and visitors alike.