Rocco
Chicago is a vibrant city with plenty to do, from visiting world-famous museums like the Art Institute of Chicago to taking in a show at the historic Goodman Theater.
The city also boasts a diverse and thriving bar scene. One popular spot is The Violet Hour, known for its extensive cocktail menu and speakeasy atmosphere.
For beer lovers like myself, The Map Room offers an impressive selection of international and craft brews in a laid-back environment.
From trendy hotspots to cozy neighborhood bars, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city’s bar scene. So, let’s check out the best bars in Chicago, Illinois!
Navigator Taproom
2211 N Milwaukee Ave #100, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 687-9135
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Navigator Taproom is a taphouse located in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. With 56 rotating taps of beer wine cocktails and cider, there is something for everyone. The taphouse if perfect for group gatherings. They are BYOF as well.
The taproom offers an extensive food menu featuring small plates and wood-fired pizzas.
The Hideout
1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Phone: (773) 227-4433
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The Hideout is a bar located in Chicago’s trendy Wicker Park neighborhood. With live music and events nearly every night, there is always something fun happening.
The drink menu features an extensive beer selection and unique cocktails.
Old Town Ale House
219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: (312) 944-7020
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Old Town Ale House is a cozy neighborhood bar in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood. They offer a wide selection of craft beers, classic cocktails, and tasty pub grub.
The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, making it a great spot to grab a drink with friends or watch a game on their TVs.
Kumiko
630 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661
Phone: (312) 285-2912
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Kumiko is a new Japanese restaurant located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood. The modern yet cozy space features a sushi bar and traditional dishes such as ramen and udon.
The menu highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients, expertly crafted sushi rolls, and delicious cocktails. If you visit with friends, I highly suggest trying their Component Flight, which highlights Japanese flavors and sake.
Maria’s Packaged Goods and Community Bar
960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608
Phone: (773) 890-0588
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Maria’s is a cozy neighborhood bar and shop offering a variety of packaged goods and drinks. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a diverse crowd.
They also offer small bites, local beers, and cocktails. I personally love trying a different local brew every time I go. Overall, it’s a great spot for both grabbing a quick drink or spending an evening.
The Violet Hour
1520 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: (773) 252-1500
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The Violet Hour is a sleek, upscale cocktail bar in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. The bar offers an extensive menu of inventive, expertly crafted cocktails, as well as a small selection of beer and wine.
The dimly lit space features plush velvet seating and vintage decor. The Violet Hour is a popular destination for cocktail enthusiasts and discerning drinkers alike.
Hopleaf
5148 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 334-9851
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Looking for Belgian cuisine and beer? Look no further than Hopleaf, a cozy bar in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood.
The intimate space features wooden tables and a backyard beer garden. Plus, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
The Green Mill
4802 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 878-5552
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As a historic jazz club with a speakeasy past, The Green Mill in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood features nightly live music and hosts popular open mic poetry nights.
With a full bar and cozy atmosphere, it’s a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Sip a cocktail in the speakeasy-style lounge or enjoy dinner and live music in the main room.
Three Dots and a Dash
435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 610-4220
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Located in the heart of River North, Three Dots and a Dash serves up tiki-inspired cocktails in a tropical oasis. Their extensive menu features classic drinks like Mai Tais and unique creations like the Polynesian Paralysis.
If you go with friends, I suggest getting a shareable cocktail like the Zombie, which serves four. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with island decor and live music on certain nights. Stop by for a vacation in a glass.
Map Room
1949 N Hoyne Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 252-9351
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Located in the heart of Bucktown, Map Room is a cozy yet bustling pub with an impressive selection of international beers.
Their menu features daily specials and a morning menu with coffee options for those early risers. Overall, Map Room offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying a cold brew and a bite to eat with friends.
Nobody’s Darling
1744 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 654-3345
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Nobody’s Darling is a quaint neighborhood bar on Balmoral Avenue in Chicago. The space features vintage decor and a rotating selection of craft beers.
The menu offers tasty pub grub, including burgers and fried pickles. Live music and weekly trivia nights add to the fun atmosphere.
Matchbox Bar
770 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Phone: (312) 666-9292
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Located in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood, Matchbox Bar offers a unique atmosphere with vintage decor and a menu of imaginative cocktails.
The bar also serves small plates and nightly specials. Happy hour specials and live music events make it a popular spot.
Osito’s Tap
2553 S Ridgeway Ave, Chicago, IL 60623
Phone: (773) 277-8117
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With strong, reasonably priced drinks and classic pub fare with a Mexican twist, locals and visitors love Osito’s Tap.
The outdoor patio is a popular spot during warmer months for friends to gather for a good time, especially during happy hour.
Scofflaw
3201 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 252-9700
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Located in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, locals know Scofflaw for its extensive craft cocktail menu and laid-back atmosphere.
The cocktail menu rotates frequently, but if you get the chance to try their punch, I highly suggest it. However, the knowledgeable staff is always willing to make personalized recommendations or create custom cocktails.
Sportsman’s Club
948 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: (872) 206-8054
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The Sportsman’s Club is a local hangout for sports fans. Located on N Western Ave in Chicago, the bar offers a wide selection of beers and TVs to watch the game.
Their menu features classic pub fare, including wings and burgers. Happy hour specials make it a popular spot for after-work drinks.
The Aviary
955 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
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The Aviary is a high-end cocktail bar in West Loop. Known for its unique and innovative drinks, the bar also offers small bites and sharing plates.
The space is sleek and modern, with a separate “kitchen bar” area where guests can watch the mixologists at work. A destination for both locals and tourists alike, The Aviary offers a unique and luxurious drinking experience.
The Alderman
1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608
Phone: (312) 243-2410
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Come to The Alderman for craft beers and signature cocktails and enjoy them in either the indoor or outdoor seating.
With its warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and scrumptious bites, The Alderman is the ideal laid-back destination to grab a drink after work or with friends.
Bokeh
4716 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Phone: (773) 754-0129
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Located in the heart of Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood, Bokeh offers a diverse selection of craft beers and cocktails, as well as small plates and shareable bites.
The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual evening out with friends.
Moonflower
4359 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641
Phone: (773) 647-1942
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Moonflower is a relaxed bar located on Milwaukee Ave in Chicago. It offers a variety of craft cocktails and small bites.
The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a date. Plus, they have nightly events such as trivia and live music.
Delilah’s
2771 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: (773) 472-2771
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Located on Lincoln Ave in Chicago, Delilah’s offers many craft beers and cocktails, as well as nightly live music and events.
The atmosphere here is lively and energetic, making it a fun spot to bring a date or gather with friends for a bit of excitement.
Ludlow Liquors
2959 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Phone: (773) 754-7492
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Go to Ludlow Liquors for their top-notch selection of craft beers and spirits. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect drink for any occasion.
Relax in the comfortable atmosphere and try one of the signature cocktails. I love the Love Shack cocktail, but you can’t go wrong with any of their drink deals, either.
Mother’s Ruin
2943 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
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Mother’s Ruin is a popular bar on Milwaukee Ave in Chicago. The atmosphere is lively, and the drinks are strong. You can find a spot at the bar or grab a table with friends.
Whether you’re looking for a night out or an after-work drink, Mother’s Ruin is a great choice.
Sleeping Village
3734 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Phone: (773) 654-3971
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Sleeping Village is a bar located on W Belmont Ave in Chicago. The space offers a unique atmosphere with carefully curated decor and music selections.
The bar offers a variety of craft cocktails and an impressive selection of beer and wine. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming environment for patrons.
The Victor Bar
4011 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Phone: (773) 360-7049
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The Victor Bar offers a unique drinking experience in a modern space. Their extensive drink menu features innovative cocktails and a diverse selection of craft beers.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink after work or spending the evening with friends, The Victor Bar is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a night out.
Billy Sunday
3143 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 661-2485
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Billy Sunday is a beloved neighborhood spot for craft cocktails and small plates. The decor is modern yet inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
Their cocktail menu changes seasonally and features unique ingredients and techniques.
Rainbo Club
1150 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: (773) 489-5999
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Rainbo Bar, located on Damen Avenue in Chicago, offers a spacious and relaxed environment for patrons to enjoy a drink.
The bar boasts an extensive selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. The friendly staff is always ready to make recommendations or create custom drinks.
Skylark
2149 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608
Phone: (312) 624-8583
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Whether grabbing a drink with friends or stopping by for a night out, Skylark never disappoints. Located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, this bar features craft cocktails and local beers in an inviting space that’s ideal for a good time.
The Whistler
2421 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 227-3530
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The Whistler is a bar known for its unique cocktails and eclectic music. The space is intimate, with dim lighting and interesting decor.
The bartenders are skilled and create inventive drinks using fresh ingredients. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink with friends or have a relaxed evening out.
The Drifter
676-8 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 631-3887
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The Drifter is a bar located in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood. The space features unique decor and a rotating selection of craft cocktails.
The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to provide recommendations for drinks or bites to eat.
Richard’s Bar
491 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 733-2251
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Richard’s Bar offers a casual yet chic atmosphere with a diverse selection of craft cocktails and beer. Located in the heart of Chicago’s trendy West Town neighborhood, this is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or date night.
Cove Lounge
1750 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: (773) 684-1013
Cove Lounge offers a variety of drinks and small bites in a chic setting. The space features modern decor and comfortable seating, making it the perfect spot to unwind after work or catch up with friends.
Sidetrack
3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 477-9189
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Sidetrack is a bar and restaurant located in the heart of Chicago’s Boystown neighborhood. The space is spacious, with multiple floors and rooms to accommodate large parties or intimate gatherings.
The menu features unique takes on classic American dishes, as well as an impressive selection of craft cocktails and beers.
The Welcome Back Lounge
2423 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 825-2800
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The Welcome Back Lounge, located in the heart of Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood, is a one-stop shop for all your bar needs.
From their extensive beer and cocktail selection to their tasty food menu, there’s something for everyone.
Sparrow
12 W Elm St, Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: (312) 725-0732
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Sparrow is a small bar located at 12 W Elm St in Chicago’s downtown area. The space is intimate and inviting, with a well-curated selection of drinks and snacks.
The staff is friendly and helpful in recommending options based on individual preferences.
The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash
435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 610-4220
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The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash is a tiki bar in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. With tropical decor and drinks, it transports guests to a tropical paradise.
The cocktails are creative and unique, with house-made syrups and fresh ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a dive bar, a sports bar, or a rooftop bar, there’s sure to be a spot on this list of best bars in Chicago, Illinois. So next time you’re in town, be sure to check out one (or all) of these bars.
And if you have comments or suggestions of your own, leave a comment below.
35 Best Bars in Chicago
- Navigator Taproom
- The Hideout
- Old Town Ale House
- Kumiko
- Maria’s Packaged Goods and Community Bar
- The Violet Hour
- Hopleaf
- The Green Mill
- Three Dots and a Dash
- Map Room
- Nobody’s Darling
- Matchbox Bar
- Osito’s Tap
- Scofflaw
- Sportsman’s Club
- The Aviary
- The Alderman
- Bokeh
- Moonflower
- Delilah’s
- Ludlow Liquors
- Mother’s Ruin
- Sleeping Village
- The Victor Bar
- Billy Sunday
- Rainbo Club
- Skylark
- The Whistler
- The Drifter
- Richard’s Bar
- Cove Lounge
- Sidetrack
- The Welcome Back Lounge
- Sparrow
- The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash
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