Jackson’s Ultra Lounge Promises ‘VIP’ Experiences When It Opens In South Loop Next Summer

SOUTH LOOP — A husband-and-wife team are planning an upscale lounge with “VIP” experiences for South Loop neighbors in the space formerly occupied by The Scout Waterhouse and Kitchen.

Kenneth and Christa Hill said they aim to open Jackson’s Ultra Lounge, 1301 S. Wabash Ave., in July 2027, reviving a space left empty since the departure of The Scout, which has since reopened in Old Town.

The concept is being managed by the Hill Hospitality Group, led by Kenneth Hill. His wife, Christa Hill, serves as director of guest experience. The lounge is named for the couple’s son, who died 13 years ago. It is their way of ensuring Jackson’s name lives on, Kenneth Hill said.

The venue will cater to an older crowd of patrons — the owners are targeting clientele 30 and up — who are looking for an after-work spot to unwind, Kenneth Hill said. The South Loop was the ideal location because it has calmer vibes compared to other areas the couple scouted, he said.

“When I visited the location, I just started picturing it. It just felt like, ‘This could really be Jackson’s,’” said Kenneth Hill, who currently works as a train operator for the CTA. The Hills live in suburban Park Forest and said they travel to the South Loop regularly for work and recreation.

The Hills have spent the past few weeks getting to know their future neighbors at community meetings, sharing their proposal and fielding questions from neighbors. Kenneth Hill said he’s been encouraged by the positive reception so far, and he will continue to keep neighbors updated as the project progresses.

The venue will have a strict dress code — no athletic or “athleisure” wear — and a menu offering “chef-driven small bites,” the owners said.

“I just wanted the food to be elevated, so we’re gonna have some recognizable classics,” Kenneth Hill said. “There’ll be seafood on the menus, some soul food. A mixture of the best of the best American dishes.”

Weekend brunch service will eventually be added, Hill said.

As for music, a resident DJ will provide an ambient soundtrack for those who prefer a more chill atmosphere. There will be an occasional live performance, but patrons shouldn’t expect a “club vibe,” Hill said.

There won’t be any promoted events in the space either, said Hill, himself a former promoter. Though he doesn’t begrudge those looking for that kind of entertainment, his clubbing days are long behind him.

Jackson’s will have valet parking, outdoor seating and security; Hill said they have an agreement with a firm staffed by current and retired police officers. Three will be on duty to monitor the front and back entrances for loiterers and smokers.

The lounge will operate 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Thursday-Friday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday, and 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Monday.

Kenneth Hill said the couple are in talks with private investors and are in the process of applying for city grants to help fund the project.