These three bars in Chicago were just named some of the best in North America

In the lead-up to the main event in Vancouver on April 22, North America’s 50 Best Bars has dropped its extended list, ranking spots from 51 to 100. The list covers everything from low-key neighborhood hangouts to high-concept cocktail dens, and Chicago, unsurprisingly, shows up strong with three bars on the extended list. Anyone who’s spent time drinking in the city knows its bar scene runs deep, and this ranking just confirms it.

At number 65, Meadowlark in Logan Square feels like a well-kept secret. The space is cozy and intimate, with low lighting, leather couches and shelves lined with books. But the real hook is the storytelling. Each cocktail comes tied to a theme, whether it’s birds, outer space or Chicago history. Drinks are named accordingly, and the experience feels a bit like stepping into a curated narrative. It’s the kind of place where you settle in, order thoughtfully and stay a while.

Coming in at 76, Nine Bar brings a completely different energy. Hidden behind Moon Palace Express in Chinatown, it’s a neon-soaked and a little chaotic, with a futuristic, Blade-Runner aesthetic. The cocktails are inspired by East Asian flavors, and entries like the MSG Martini have already built a following. It’s bold, a little unexpected and exactly what the space promises.

At number 80, Queen Mary in Wicker Park takes a more classic route. Revived after decades of dormancy, it channels British maritime traditions with a polished but relaxed feel. Regulars come for the martinis and stay for the consistency. It's a familiar, reassuring spot that knows exactly what it is and executes it well.

Together, these three spots capture the range of Chicago’s bar scene right now: thoughtful, energetic and rooted in character.

Best Bars in North America, 51-100

51. Aruba Day Drink, Tijuana
52. Katana Kitten, New York
53. Humboldt Bar, Victoria
54. Civil Liberties, Toronto
55. Silver Lyan, Washington, D.C.
56. Cloakroom, Montreal
57. Allegory, Washington, D.C.
58. Dante, New York
59. Bagheera, Vancouver
60. Café de Nadie, Mexico City
61. Arca, Tulum
62. Atwater Cocktail Club, Montreal
63. Scotch Lodge, Portland
64. Meo, Vancouver
65. Meadowlark, Chicago
66. Seed Library, New York
67. Yacht Club, Denver
68. Vandell, Los Angeles
69. Cry Baby Gallery, Toronto
70. Bar Kaiju, Miami
71. The Portrait Bar, New York
72. Laowai, Vancouver
73. Identidad, San Juan
74. Suite 115, Toronto
75. Bar Bello, Montreal
76. Nine Bar, Chicago
77. Shinji’s, New York
78. Proof, Calgary
79. Missy’s, Calgary
80. Queen Mary, Chicago
81. Bar Leather Apron, Honolulu
82. No Vacancy, Toronto
83. Father Forgive Me, Detroit
84. Julep, Houston
85. Ticonderoga Club, Atlanta
86. The Wig Shop, Boston
87. Citrus & Cane, Victoria
88. Hecate Bar, Boston
89. Roquette, Seattle
90. Slice Of Life, Toronto
91. Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions, Vancouver
92. Thunderbolt, Los Angeles
93. Realm of 52 Remedies, San Diego
94. Bar Mordecai, Toronto
95. Zapote Bar, Playa del Carmen
96. Nickel City, Austin
97. The Coldroom, Montreal
98. Shelter, Calgary
99. Door No.4, Grand Cayman
100. Trick Dog, San Francisco