The 24 best Chicago bars—the essential spots, ranked

What is it? A “Japanese dining bar” that serves creative snacks and a cocktail omakase in the West Loop.

Why we love it: When a regular ol’ G&T simply won’t do, mixology maven Julia Momose is waiting with splurge-worthy concoctions at Kumiko. Arranged from bright and light to spirituous closers, the drinks here are chock-full of ingredients that reflect Momose’s Japanese heritage, including rice vodka, saké vermouth and umé. The environs are equally intimate, with a bar that offers a peek into the kitchen. Walk-ins are always welcome, but space at Kumiko is limited, so you may want to lock down a reservation before your visit.

Time Out tip: Sake and shochu cocktails and low- or no-proof sips headline Julia Momose’s imaginative menu, but we love asking for a recommendation on sake, which harmonizes beautifully with the refined, umami-rich fare.

Address: 630 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 6-11:30pm

What is it? A neighborhood landmark near Second City with a storied past.

Why we love it: Knock back stiff drinks with a gloriously diverse cast of characters from grizzled old timers to tourists from nearby Second City at this late-night watering hole, which was established back in 1958. The place is favored by a mix of actors, comedians, neighborhood locals and newspaper guys, from the late Anthony Bourdain to famed Chicago film critic Roger Ebert to actor Michael Shannon. 

Time Out tip: Those paintings that line the walls were done by current owner Bruce Elliott: along with portraits of famously funny patrons like Stephen Colbert, Bill Murray and John Belushi, don’t miss out on the artist’s more absurd satirical works, including one of Vladimir Putin dancing as a ballerina.

Address: 219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610

Opening hours: Mon-Fri, Sun 3pm-4am; Sat 3pm-5am

What is it? A dimly lit cocktail haven offering inventive cocktails and Midwestern hospitality in Logan Square.

Why we love it: The team behind Logan Square spots Union and Lardon also operates this intimate and swanky cocktail bar. Housed in the same century-old building as the other two concepts, The Meadowlark provides guests with a cozy den to hang out in—complete with low lighting, comfy leather couches and book-lined shelves. The rotating drinks are all named after childhood activities, birds and World’s Fair attractions, and there’s also an accompanying menu of small bites. Seating is limited, so get there early to snag a spot.

Time Out tip: The bar bites are not to be missed. We recommend the fries, which feature a kimchi spice and ssamjang aioli.

Address: 2812 W Palmer St, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Daily 5pm-1am

What is it? A modern cocktail lounge by The Alinea Group.

Why we love it: When Grant Achatz does a cocktail bar, it should go without saying that it's no ordinary cocktail bar. At the Aviary, which opened next door to Next in 2011, cocktails receive the same innovative treatment as the food at Next or Alinea. This James Beard Award-winning lounge also offers seasonal five- and seven-course food and cocktail tasting experiences, as well as a customizable three-course cocktail progression. Even if you're just dropping in for drinks, you should expect cocktails like the Partridge, an artful arrangement featuring bourbon, spiced pear, Douglas fir and mint, all accompanied by a chrome bird gently perched atop. You've never seen a drink like it, and given how rare a visit to the Aviary is, you may never again.

Time Out tip: You'll need a reservation (accompanied by a deposit, which is applied to your bill) to enjoy one of the distinct experiences at The Aviary.

Address: 955 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 5-11pm; Fri 5pm-1am; Sat 4:30pm-1am

What is it? An iconic Uptown jazz lounge.

Why we love it: Al Capone and other gangsters used to hang here in the 1920s, but these days it’s all about the music. Owner Dave Jemilo, who returned the club to its original luster in the 1980s, books smart bebop and free jazz with a discerning ear. Local favorites Alfonso Ponticelli and Chris Foreman both maintain residencies throughout the year. Come early, as it’s usually understandably busy.

Time Out tip: Everything you need to know about this place is clearly stated on the website: "We do not take reservations. We don’t make drinks with egg whites. We don’t make mojitos. And we take CASH ONLY." So, be sure to stop at the ATM on your way—and don't even think about ordering a mojito!

Address: 4802 N Broadway St, Chicago 60640

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 4pm-1:11am; Fri 4pm-2am; Sat 1pm-2am

What is it? A gin-focused bar from veterans of the Whistler and Boiler Room.

Why we love it: Though the hand-drawn menu at this Logan Square gin joint changes with the seasons, every iteration includes a glossary of unfamiliar ingredients, like orgeat (almond syrup with rose/orange water) and baijiu (a pineapple-flavored spirit from China). That humble mentality permeates the space, too—split into two distinct rooms, one more Victorian-style salon with couches and curtains and the other more of a friendly neighborhood joint with a long bar—guaranteeing a welcoming, inclusive experience every time. Come with a few friends, settle into a high-backed sofa and take your drinks with an order of shareable snacks, like the thrice-cooked Scofflaw Fries served with garlic aioli.

Time Out tip: The gin bar brings out huge baking sheets of chocolate chip cookies to distribute among guests at precisely midnight, a treat that always pairs well with whatever cocktail you happen to have in your hand.

Address: 3201 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri, Sat 3pm-2am; Sun 3pm-1am

What is it? A secret speakeasy tucked below The Aviary, with classically inspired cocktails and vintage spirits.

Why we love it: You won't soon forget an evening at the Office, a tiny, 21-seat speakeasy hidden below lauded cocktail bar the Aviary in the West Loop. There are several prepaid experiences on offer, from an a la carte “The Office Reservation” to a full-blown “The Office Tasting Menu” (pairing classic cocktails, barrel-aged spirits, or rare and vintage selections with “luxury” bites, like foie gras terrines and yolk-crowned beef tartare). But your best bet is to reserve one of four bar stools for “The Office Hour,” a 60-minute guided tasting that includes two bespoke cocktails and food pairings (ideal for pre- or post-dinner tipples).

Time Out tip: Can’t decide on a drink? Opt for the Dealer’s Choice and let the expert bartenders craft a concoction tailored to your preferences.

Address: The Aviary, 955 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 5pm-midnight; Fri 5pm-1am; Sat 4:30pm-1am

What is it? A circa-1937 bar with a retro-cool space and old-fashioned cocktails.

Why we love it: Following a pandemic-era closure, the glowing red lights at beloved Humboldt Park haunt California Clipper flickered back to life in 2022 thanks to an acquisition by the hospitality company Orbit Group (Good Measure, Segnatore)—and we’re pleased to report that things are back to usual at the bar, from weekly live music to the same red leather booths flanking the walls. Despite the bar’s deliberate “classic Chicago tavern vibe,” the carefully curated cocktail menu is more interesting than a PBR and a shot of Malort.

Time Out tip: If you’re craving a change of pace, venture to the Clipper’s back room (which previously housed coffee shop C.C. Ferns) for DJ sets and late-night dancing meant to channel the spirit of Danny’s, the iconic Bucktown spot that shuttered in 2020. 

Address: 1002 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon 6pm-midnight; Tue-Thu 6pm-2am; Fri, Sun 4pm-2am; Sat 4pm-3am

What is it? Lettuce Entertain You's newest bar concept.

Why we love it: In a neighborhood rife with overpriced drinks, Gus’ Sip & Dip is a breath of fresh air. The menu boasts 30 cocktails—made with a variety of spirits—and each is priced at $12. Your favorites are all here, from refreshing options such as the Hawaii-style Mai Tai and classic Margarita to the booze-forward Sazerac. 

Time Out tip: The food certainly isn’t an afterthought—we recommend starting with the crab rangoon dip before splitting the wagyu beef dip, served with whipped horseradish and jus for dunking the sandwich in.

Address: 51 W Hubbard St Suite 100, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 4pm-midnight; Fri, Sat noon-1am

What is it? A self-proclaimed “Asian-ish” cocktail bar inside Chinatown’s Moon Palace Express.

Why we love it: Chinatown is home to an incredible assortment of restaurants but until 2022, a cocktail bar was missing from the equation. Nine Bar owners Lily Wang and Joe Briglio have given the neighborhood a drinking oasis with this moody, Blade Runner-esque lounge hidden away in the back of Moon Palace Express. Drop in for Asian-inspired old fashioneds, a classic Mai Tai (enhanced with almond cookie orgeat syrup) and potent concoctions like the Paradise Lost, made with mango brandy, cachaça, ube, pineapple and Thai coconut milk.

Time Out tip: A lineup of Asian-inspired plates and sandwiches complements the cocktails, meaning there's no reason to leave. Order the cold sesame noodles for a spicy bite that doesn’t overwhelm. But no matter what, make sure to get the McKatsu, a fried pork sando packed with flavor.

Address: Moon Palace Express, 216 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun 5pm-midnight; Fri, Sat 5pm-1am

What is it? A stylish rooftop bar and restaurant atop the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel.

Why we love it: Whenever we want to impress out-of-towners, we book a table at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel’s 13th-floor rooftop bar, from which Millennium Park, Lake Michigan and the city skyline are on glorious display under a glass atrium. The drink lineup complements the vistas with easy-sipping selections that are best enjoyed in the sun—like Trouble Will Find Me, made with tequila, mezcal, watermelon, and yuzu soda. As a bonus, the spirit-free menu rocks, offering bold, wildly creative quaffs.

Time Out tip: The food spread is also mostly well-executed and comes in massive portions that are made for sharing. 

Address: 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-11pm; Fri 11am-midnight; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 10am-11pm

What is it? A hybrid liquor store and neighborhood tavern with a large rotating menu of craft beers.

Why we love it: Before he founded Marz Community Brewing, Ed Marszewski and his brother Mike remodeled and renamed Kaplan’s Liquors, the Bridgeport bar and liquor store that was owned and operated since 1986 by their mother, Maria. At Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar, chandeliers built out of bottles and the 300-plus microbrews are notable—naturally, you'll find some of the latest Marz beers on tap here, served alongside plenty of interesting selections from local and national breweries—but the real standout feature is the welcoming scene: People like each other here.

Time Out tip: You can grab a bite to eat (and find even more tables) next door at Kimski, which serves Korean-ish fare. You can order a beer at either bar and walk freely between the two venues, though personally, we prefer the cozy, wood-paneled vibes of Maria's. 

Address: 960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608

Opening hours: Mon 5pm-midnight; Tue, Wed 3pm-midnight; Thu, Fri 3pm-2am; Sat 1pm-2am; Sun 1pm-midnight

What is it? A rock ‘n’ roll booze emporium with an insane whiskey selection and one of the best jukeboxes in town.

Why we love it: No Chicagoan’s bar bucket list is complete without a visit to Mike Miller’s no-bullshit establishment, which is known for its extensive collection of whiskey and beer as well as its nightly DJ sets—everything from metal to ska (the good kind) and R&B—and VHS tape screenings. Miller holds court at the three-decade-old bar, which is decorated with red Christmas lights, obscure works from local artists, a well-loved pool table and a pinball machine. If the 1,000-plus options on the whiskey list are too intimidating, don't be afraid to ask the bartender for a recommendation.

Time Out tip: Along with rotating DJs who know their Buzzcocks from their Bullocks, Delilah’s holds a regular lineup of special events, including art openings, free movie nights and beer tastings. And don’t miss the Godzilla pinball!

Address: 2771 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 4pm-2am; Sat 11am-3pm; Sun 11am-2am

What is it? A laid-back lounge with an LGBTQIA+ focus.

Why we love it: Be nobody’s darling; / Be an outcast. Named for an Alice Walker poem, Nobody’s Darling made waves when it debuted in 2021 as the second Black-owned LGBTQ+ bar in Chicago, offering an elegant, inclusive space with a high-end cocktail menu to boot. Flip through a selection of riffs on classic cocktails like the fiery Kahlo Margarita (Jon Basil Reposado tequila, passion fruit liqueur, triple sec, lime, agave and spicy bitters) or treat yourself to a drink off the bar’s ever-changing Featured Darlings menu.

Time Out tip: If it's your first time at Nobody's Darling, start off with something like the Rose's Revenge, a refreshing, flowery libation featuring vodka, rose hip liqueur, lemon and simple syrup. Those looking for something stronger should appreciate the bar's bolder sip, The Old Fashioned Way.

Address: 1744 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 5-11pm; Fri 4pm-midnight; Sat 2pm-midnight; Sun 2-11pm

What is it? Equal parts casual watering hole and refined cocktail destination, with laid-back digs and an outdoor patio

Why we love it: When brothers Chris and Calvin Marty reopened the old Marble Bar space, we didn’t know what to expect. Since then, the self-proclaimed “fancy cocktail bar” Best Intentions has become a booze-slinging Logan Square institution, complete with balanced drinks and elevated snacks, like calf-liver mousse and port-wine cheese spread. But perhaps Best Intention’s greatest accomplishment has been to find a way to emulate the archetypal Chicago dive bar in all its nitty-gritty splendor. The lived-in space, outfitted in wood paneling and checkered floors, effortlessly looks beyond its years.

Time Out tip: Settle into a table on the big back patio with a group of pals for minty Wondermint Malted shakes and a “baker’s dozen” of griddled cheeseburgers with hand-cut fries and house-made, curry-laced Joppiesaus.

Address: 3281 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Tue-Fri 5pm-2am; Sat 11am-3am; Sun 11am-2am

What is it? A “high-craft, low-key” lounge featuring ingredient-focused cocktails and small plates by Michelin-starred chef Curtis Duffy.

Why we love it: Ever, one of the most luxurious restaurants in Chicago, expanded its footprint in 2022 with the opening of an upscale cocktail bar right next door. Dubbed After, the chic and futuristic-looking lounge provides a place for Chicagoans to imbibe rare and vintage spirits plus expertly crafted mixed drinks. You’ll have plenty of high-end options to drop your money on, including Japanese whiskies, and scotch and Armagnac flights. And if you’d like some light bites to accompany the drinking, there are premium delicacies like Vietnamese duck wings and a caviar flight, too.

Time Out tip: Unlike its fine-dining sibling, reservations aren’t required here—After bills itself as a “come-as-you-are bar” with walk-ins encouraged. (“No dress code, No VIP, No attitude,”  the team promises.) However, if you want to access the concept’s private rooms, The Sound Booth and The B-side, you can do so through Tock. 

Address: 1338 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60607

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 2pm-midnight

What is it? A true-blue Chicago tavern with tin ceilings, budget beers and a juke filled with Rat-Pack classics.

Why we love it: A bistro in France it ain’t, but curiously enough, this tidy, dark dive takes a few traditions from across the Atlantic. The bartender—usually a skinny, older gentleman or at least some variation on the theme—typically dresses in an immaculately crisp white button-down, and you can buy hard-boiled eggs if you need a snack. The larger-than-life posters of De Niro on the wall, however, are completely American. Oh, and smoking is prohibited.

Time Out tip: If you’re an Illinois resident, you can order Richard’s Bar-branded liquors (London dry gin, straight bourbon whiskey and the like) online at the venue’s website. You can also pick up bottles directly at the famed establishment, just make sure to have cash if you’re purchasing in person, as they don’t accept credit cards at the bar.

Address: 491 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8am-2am; Sat 9am-3am; Sun noon-2am

What is it? A pretense-free drinks den with a vintage hunting-lodge vibe, an ample patio and a rotating list of spirit-forward cocktails

Why we love it: The neighborhood bar attracts a crowd from far beyond Humboldt Park borders, thanks to a funky, taxidermy-filled interior; large backyard patio with a summer bar and string lights; and cheap beer and shots. The Low Life—a High Life plus a shot of bourbon, Malört, Fernet-Branca or a house-blend of bitters pulled fresh from an amaro machine—is just $7, a lovably steadfast option among the ever-changing list of cocktails. Come summertime, the bar invites Chicago’s top chefs (from notable spots like Maxwells Trading, Nine Bar and more) to host cookouts on the patio every Sunday afternoon. 

Time Out tip: Sportsman’s Club is cash only, and you can also bring your own food in, though the Tamale Guy will also likely make an appearance for late-night snacking.

Address: 948 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Sat 5pm-2am; Sun 4pm-2am

What is it? A ‘70s-inspired lesbian cocktail lounge “for every friend of Dorothy.”

Why we love it: Tucked away beneath the former Split-Rail location sits this LGBTQ+ cocktail den that’s decked out in vintage furniture and 1970s-style decor. (A crush-worthy establishment, Dorothy Downstairs fittingly opened on Valentine’s Day 2020.) Through the red door, you’ll find good vibes all around and a rotating selection of intriguing libations, such as the Midnight Margarita, housemade draft margs made with infused charcoal. 

Time Out tip: The bar hosts regular events throughout the month but don’t expect your tired old Tuesday trivia nights—the wide-ranging programming includes astrology readings and pop-up tarot events, drag showcases, book clubs, sapphic karaoke, singles mixers and comedy shows.

Address: 2500 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 6-11pm; Fri, Sat 6pm-1am

What is it? A bar to belly up to with a Belgian brew in hand.

Why we love it: A formidable list of craft beers and European imports dominates this sprawling two-story spot with multiple bars. Hopleaf is an Andersonville staple, pouring local and international brews, both on draft and in bottles or cans. The bar has special tappings and charity kegs, so be on the lookout as you peruse the 60-plus drafts—if you see a rarity, be sure to snag it. There’s also an encyclopedic bottle list, plus a handful of wines on draft if, for some insane reason, you can’t find anything frothy to fit your fancy.

Time Out tip: Our perfect night involves sampling the drafts at the bar while slurping down the famous ale-steamed mussels, but you could also class it up, grab a proper table and dig into plates like Amish chicken thighs with parsnip purée au fromage and crispy pork belly.

Address: 5148 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun noon-11pm; Fri, Sat noon-midnight

What is it? A stylish bar inside The Hoxton offering craft cocktails and prohibition-chic decor.

Why we love it: This dimly lit, seriously sexy rathskeller beneath the Hoxton hotel is a great bet for those nights when you want to go somewhere where no one knows your name. (Seating is configured in a way that gives each party a sense of privacy, and don’t plan on checking your email or Instagram feed while you’re here—the subterranean space is graciously a black hole for cell service.) The deal is sweetened by a pièce de résistance of a cocktail menu that includes perfected standards. The Negroni, for instance, mimics the flavor of vintage Campari with a top-secret mixture of bitters, achieving an exquisitely balanced, time-traveling tipple. Whether you want something familiar or out of the ordinary, you'll find no shortage of options at Lazy Bird.

Time Out tip: There’s not a morsel of food on this boozy bar menu, so plan on grabbing a bite upstairs at Cira or Cabra, the hotel’s two in-house restaurants.

Address: 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

Opening hours: Mon-Fri, Sun 6pm-1am; Sat 6pm-2am

What is it? A tiki bar located in the underbelly of River North.

Why we love it: It will take a few minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness of the underground space (no, really, it's very dark down there). The cavernous tiki bar is great for small groups, who would be wise to order a themed shared drink like the Sippopotamus (tequila, Venetian aperitivo, passionfruit, pineapple and lime), which is served in a smoking punch bowl from a hippopotamus' agape mouth, or the Treasure Chest, a literal chest of punch (rum, Perrier-Jouët brut Champagne, passionfruit, guava, lemon and tangerine), which will run you a cool $250. No matter what you order, oohing and aahing is guaranteed. 

Time Out tip: The drinks are, rightfully, expensive and sweet, so we recommend starting your night here with a shared drink and light bites before heading out on the town.

Address: 435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Mon-Wed, Sun 4pm-midnight; Thu, Fri 4pm-1am; Sat 2pm-1am

What is it? A straightforward bar serving up simple cocktails, craft beers and “no bullshit” in the West Loop.

Why we love it: Though it dubs itself "just a bar," there's way more to Moneygun than meets the eye. Located on the east side of the Kennedy Expressway, this West Loop spot specializes in classic cocktails—30 to be exact. Sip sidecars, cosmopolitans, mojitos, negronis and martinis for $15 each, which is a steal when you consider the bar team is using house-made syrups, sodas and elixirs to craft perfectly balanced sippers. 

Time Out tip: Although the headliner here is the alcohol, they don't skimp on the food offerings with snacks that are more inventive than your usual barroom peanuts: Find goat cheese-stuffed peppadew peppers, chicken wings sauced in hoisin BBQ and taquitos-and-dip combos, from birria with consommé to Chicago-style Italian beef with jus).

Address: 660 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60661

Opening hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-2am

What is it? A handsome Logan Square pub with high-end but approachable cocktails.

Why we love it: Who would have guessed longtime Trotter's chef Matthias Merges would find his calling checking IDs at the door of a Logan Square bar? Granted, his is not just any bar: Here, barkeep Alex Bachman combines his penchant for unusual ingredients (a syrup made from maidenhair ferns, say) with an uncanny sense of balance, turning out creations that both pay homage to and defy tradition—often simultaneously. Most drinks will run you around $15-$18, but the top-shelf menu—in which drinks are concocted with vintage spirits, like 1960s Bosford Gin, plus other rarefied ingredients—goes as high as $35 a pop, if you feel like splurging.

Time Out tip: Though Billy Sunday is squarely a bar, the food is a worthy companion to the drinks: Snack on crispy pork chicharrones, French onion dip and puppy chow mixed with Chex Mix, peanut butter and dark chocolate.

Address: 3143 W Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Mon, Tue 5-10pm; Wed, Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri, Sat 5pm-2am; Sun 3-10pm