Paul Kushner
Embark on an affordable and spirited journey through the Windy City as we unveil the hidden gems and neighborhood haunts that make up the Cheap Bars in Chicago. Beyond the glitz of downtown, these establishments offer a genuine taste of the city’s diverse culture and character. From classic dives with decades of stories to tell, to trendy spots that prove you don’t need a hefty tab for a memorable night out, our guide explores the best budget-friendly options. Join us as we navigate the streets and alleys to discover where Chicagoans gather for good company, great drinks, and an authentic experience that won’t break the bank. Cheers to the wallet-friendly delights of Chicago’s bar scene.
Shamrock Club
210 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 321-9314
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The Shamrock Club is a popular Irish pub located in River North, Chicago. The bar serves Mystery Shots, Allagash White Bottles, Woodchuck Amber Hard Cider Bottles, and drinks including Blue Moon, Bud Light, and Miller Lite. The Shamrock Club’s kitchen is open late and they also offer daily specials.
Rogers Park Social
6920 N Glenwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60626
(773) 791-1419
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Rogers Park Social is a unique and inviting venue located in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. They offer a selection of craft beers and freshly prepared cocktails. Their interior gives the space a cozy and eclectic feel. They offer happy hour specials, such as half-priced drinks, which can help patrons save money. Additionally, the bar occasionally holds events with discounted drink prices.
The Whistler
2421 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 227-3530
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The Whistler is a bar, gallery, record label, and venue that hosts live music and DJs. It is located in Logan Square. It features an award-winning cocktail program that features classics, contemporary favorites, and Whistler originals in a menu that always changes. The prices are reasonable given the quality of the drinks and the atmosphere.
Estelle’s Cafe & Lounge
2013 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 782-0450
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Estelle’s Cafe & Lounge is located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago and offers a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on food, drinks, and music. The venue also hosts private parties of up to 100 guests. They have happy hour specials that feature half-priced cheap drinks and food items.
Brando’s Speakeasy
343 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60604
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Brando’s Speakeasy is a historic Chicago bar located in The Loop neighborhood which is Chicago’s central business district and a major commercial and cultural hub. It’s a popular and well-regarded establishment with a rich history and a wide selection of drinks and food.
Old Town Ale House
219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 944-7020
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The Old Town Ale House is a neighborhood bar located in the Old Town neighborhood of Chicago. The bar is known for its art collection featuring portraits of famous and infamous people. I loved their friendly atmosphere. It has been a favorite spot among locals and tourists. The bar features a diverse selection of good but cheap drinks.
The Corner Bar
2224 N Leavitt St, Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 697-9934
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The Corner Bar is a casual neighborhood bar located in the Bucktown area of Chicago. It is known for its dive bar atmosphere and affordable drink prices. The atmosphere is laid-back, with friendly bartenders and a welcoming crowd. They offer craft beers on tap and drink specials every day.
Rossi’s
412 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 644-5775
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Rossi’s is a dive bar located in the River North neighborhood in Chicago. Rossi’s serves affordable drinks and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly bartenders. Take note that the bar is cash-only. I will go here again and grab a beer on my next visit.
Kasey’s Tavern
701 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 427-7992
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Kasey’s Tavern is a neighborhood bar located in the South Loop of Chicago. The bar serves VS and VSOP brandy, liqueurs, gin, and rum. As well as branded vodkas like Absolut and Effen vodka They have a food menu that includes options for the pizza you will love.
Big Chicks
5024 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 728-5511
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Big Chicks is a popular LGBTQ-friendly bar and restaurant located in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. The bar is known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and affordable drinks. They offer a diverse menu that includes vegetarian and vegan options. They serve a variety of cocktails, beer, and types of wine as well.
Sky-Ride Cocktail Lounge
105 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 939-3340
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Sky-Ride is a cocktail lounge located in the neighborhood of the Loop in downtown Chicago. They are known for their cheap but great drinks that patrons love. They also have a nice bartender. There is a warm and inviting atmosphere that you will notice when you go here.
Why should you trust us?
We use our own local experience and contacts in the city to know which places to include in our lists. We also researched the web and read 5 reputable blogs and websites, including chicago.eater.com, urbanmatter.com, super.com, thrillist.com and thehauteseeker.com. So that you can be sure you’re receiving the best of the best. We compiled all the results in one spot and ranked them according to how frequently they were referenced.
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