The novella-length menu at this low-key Humboldt Park alcove contains loving and helpful descriptions of an impressive selection of wines. You can practically feel beverage director Jamie McLennan's passion oozing off the pages. The staff here is always happy to help point you in the right direction, and thanks to the array of small plates served until 1am, this is the kind of warm, simple neighborhood place you’ll never want—or need—to leave.
Handcrafted cocktails and local beers are big draws for Chicago bars, but that doesn't mean we don't have a soft spot for great wines. The best wine bars in Chicago aren't afraid to think outside of the box (or bottle, as it were) in order to present unusual pours from around the world. Whether we're after a glass of cheerful bubbles or a soul-soothing pinot noir, these are the Chicago wine bars we head to. At these spots, even the bar food goes beyond the typical charcuterie board—some even have menus that rival the best Italian restaurants in Chicago. Get ready to sniff, swirl and sip at some of the best wine bars in Chicago.