Debuting as one of the newest hotspots for food, drinks and dancing, Vertigo Nite Club and Bistro 145 offer people a chance to experience a piece of DeKalb’s nightlife.

Unlike most of DeKalb’s other evening establishments, the club allows the 18 to 21 crowd the opportunity to party with older friends.

Vertigo Nite Club and Bistro 145, 145 N. 3rd St., will allow under-age people to eat and dance while also allowing those of age the ability to drink. The club, opening its doors tonight at 8 p.m., will provide club-goers with the experience of brilliant sounds, spectacular lights and a fun-filled atmosphere.

Joe Bortz, owner of Vertigo Nite Club and Bistro 145, said when he visited DeKalb a year ago, he saw the need for a great club.

“There are so many residents and students who like to party and have fun,” Bortz said. “We are creating a serious, Chicago-style, heavy investment, nightclub atmosphere,” Bortz said.

Bortz believes in using local artists as well as other students to work in the club and restaurant. The club boasts original artwork by artists in Chicago as well as three NIU students.

Bortz said that a dress code and the need for proper identification will be enforced at the club. Club-goers should dress appropriately and plan on keeping their daily work clothes in the closet and bringing out their club attire.

The club will feature music such as top-40, Euro and progressive all set to intricate laser lights. The entertainment system featured in the club cost more than $100,000 deejays from all over the country can be expected at the club in the future.

Bortz is adamant about enforcing the 21-year-old drinking age even though the younger crowd will be allowed to socialize under the same roof.

“It’s in our best business interest to enforce the law for people under 21 and to not let them drink in the area that is over 21,” Bortz said.

Vertigo Nite Club will be open Wednesday and Thursday 8 p.m. to 1a.m., and Friday and Saturday until 2 a.m. Bistro 145 will open at 4:30 p.m. and remain open until the closing of the club. The cover charge will range from $1-4 in the liquor area and $6 in the restaurant area after 8 p.m.