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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Illinois

Bars

Find a comfortable stool and a quiet corner to settle in for a drink.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Liar’s Club image 1
Liar’s Club image 2
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Classic dive bar with punk rock vibe and loud live music energizes fans. Dark, gritty space with weird art and Kiss posters creates raw, authentic feel. Tight layout offers room to dance, keeping an underground atmosphere alive.

Dark, gritty dive bar with a punk rock vibe and heavy music sets the tone. Walls show weird art and Kiss posters, creating a loud, authentic atmosphere for live music fans.

People are saying

"I found the live music here to be great and the vibes were rad."

"This bar's punk vibe is dark, gritty, and loud."

"The drinks here are cheap, especially the beer and shots."

Good to know

1

Liar’s Club is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.

2

Street parking is the only option available near Liar’s Club.

3

They host Kiss karaoke around Halloween every year.

02
James Joyce Irish Pub image 1

Quaint Irish pub offers a cozy atmosphere with friendly regulars who enjoy deep talks and lively gossip. Bar serves perfectly poured Guinness and a strong selection of Irish whiskeys for an authentic experience.

Feels like a cozy pub in Ireland with a quaint atmosphere and great Guinness pour. Offers a solid selection of Irish whiskeys and friendly bar service.

People are saying

"This Irish bar feels just like being in Ireland."

"It's a true Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere."

"I had so much fun at this authentic Irish pub."

Good to know

1

The pub hosts events like '1/2 way to St Patrick’s Day'.

2

The bar gets packed frequently, especially on weekends.

3

The pub does not have a kitchen but allows takeout from nearby restaurants.

03
Quality Time image 1

Narrow bar with 70s vibe and wood paneling offers fun cocktails at good prices. Funky DJ sets spin full albums like Daft Punk's Discovery, creating a chill yet enthusiastic mood. Cozy round leather booths and a small patio provide intimate spots in a packed space.

Cozy spot with a 70s vibe and fun cocktails. Drinks are reasonably priced with a solid mix of staples and creative options, all set to great music like Daft Punk's Discovery album.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative, fresh, and well-crafted."

"I heard the chicken tamales are pretty good."

"This bar has a really chill, comfortable vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm with great drink specials.

2

Seating is limited on Saturday nights, so arrive early.

3

The bar offers reasonably priced drinks and good music.

04
Home Away From Home image 1

Sports bar buzzes with MLB-themed seating and many TVs. Friendly staff like Mel create a welcoming vibe that feels like home. Live music and games add lively energy while dog-friendly policy keeps it relaxed.

A busy spot with a strong MLB theme that goes beyond just the Cubs. Staff like Mel make sure everyone is taken care of, creating a friendly vibe that feels like a second living room.

People are saying

"This bar felt like my second living room in Chicago."

"The staff here makes sure the live sports you want are on."

"I enjoyed the amazing food; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult or inconvenient in the area.

2

The bar is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Prices for drinks are reasonable compared to other places nearby.

05
Teddy Bear Lounge image 1
Cocktail bar

Small dive bar with pool table and video displays offers a lively, authentic vibe. Clean, modernized space with no d-bag vibes and a cash-only policy keeps it real. Great happy hour and attentive service add to the neighborhood charm.

Offers a real rock dive bar vibe with amazing video displays and a great ambiance. Runs a clean, authentic spot with a solid happy hour and attentive service.

People are saying

"This neighborhood bar has such a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The staff made me feel so welcome during Happy Hour."

"The cocktails here are excellent and the prices are decent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Free music trivia happens every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.

3

The bar accepts cash only, with a $3 ATM fee on-site.

06
Randall’s Pub image 1
Sports bar

Classic neighborhood bar offers friendly bartenders and a welcoming vibe. Spacious interior with original local art and games like shuffleboard keep guests entertained. Perfect spot to relax or watch sports with a lively yet low-key feel.

Bartenders serve a variety of drinks, beers, and cocktails with skill and friendliness. The bar offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a shuffleboard table for added fun.

People are saying

"This bar has such a welcoming and lively vibe."

"This local spot has a beautiful vibe and feels like home."

"I found the fun activities here to be an experience beyond just getting a drink."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every last Friday of the month at 9pm.

2

Tuesday night Drag Bingo starts at 7pm.

3

On certain Saturday nights, the DJ spins vinyl records.

07
Zambonis Sports Bar & Entertainment image 1

Bar and grill offers a lively yet comfortable vibe with hockey-themed decor and open seating. Lights mimic hockey ice, enhancing the sports bar feel. Tall ceilings and outdoor dining add to the welcoming atmosphere perfect for socializing and watching games.

Lights mimic hockey ice, creating a unique sports bar vibe. Music plays well, and the atmosphere stays real and relaxed without any pretension.

People are saying

"It's a welcoming spot to catch live sports with friendly staff."

"Emily was the best bartender, handling everything with ease."

"The Italian Stallion Flatbread is excellent and shareable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Drink specials are posted on Facebook for select games.

3

Seating is usually available quickly, even for larger groups.

08
Samm's Last Chance Saloon image 1

Bar shines with a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and a full taco and nacho bar offering many options. Live music and pool tables keep the vibe chill and friendly. Large patio and multiple TVs with NFL ticket create a homey, fun vibe for all guests.

Offers a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and a full taco and nacho bar with multiple meat and topping options. Features a full bar plus many non-alcoholic drinks and serves food that resets standards for bar fare.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome and delicious."

"The bar staff here is super friendly and genuinely awesome."

"It's a great spot to chill and hang out with friends."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

The bar serves food made from scratch with a straightforward menu.

3

Sunday Ticket is available, allowing guests to watch every NFL game.

09
Lemon image 1

Bar offers unique cocktails in a cozy, upscale lounge with live music that stays balanced for easy conversation. Multiple seating areas and a patio create a relaxed yet lively vibe. Perfect for enjoying drinks and tunes without feeling overwhelmed.

Cocktail offerings stand out with high quality and unique flavors. The bar balances an elevated yet unpretentious vibe, making it a notable spot in the neighborhood.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are thoughtful, creative, and perfectly balanced."

"The cocktails were incredible and very well made."

"The live music here is great."

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur from Thursday to Saturday, featuring various bands.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 shots and beers.

3

Bingo night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with a small entry fee.

10
Ma O'Brien's Irish Pub image 1

Cozy Irish pub offers a warm atmosphere and authentic decor that feels like home. Friendly bar staff serve great drinks, including a delicious pint of Guinness at fair prices. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed space to enjoy games and meet people.

Warm, welcoming atmosphere captures the spirit of a classic neighborhood pub with friendly service and attentive bar staff. Offers great drinks including a delicious pint of Guinness and reasonable prices, making it a solid spot for drinks or watching European games.

People are saying

"This pub feels like home, warm and welcoming."

"They have a great selection of Irish and local craft beers."

"This bar feels like home with its warm, welcoming atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every other Friday on the 1st and 3rd of each month.

2

Margarita Monday features $5 spicy and regular margaritas.

3

Trivia night occurs weekly, allowing participation for all guests.

11
The Brig image 1

Classic tavern offers a Cheers-like vibe with a dog-friendly atmosphere and a pool table for fun. Young adults enjoy craft beers and eclectic music while friendly staff keep the energy lively.

A dog-friendly bar with a fun ambience and a welcoming staff creates a lively neighborhood spot. The bar shows a personal touch through thoughtful decoration and a vibe that feels like a fresh reinvention.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"You have to try Jen's Bloody Marys during Sunday Bloody Sunday."

"The karaoke nights here are the most fun in the city."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights are held every Saturday, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Trivia night takes place every Wednesday at 7pm with prizes for winners.

3

Bingo nights are hosted every Thursday at 8pm, offering fun prizes.

12
The Embassy image 1
Sports bar

Authentic Irish pub shines with perfect pints and hearty Irish dishes. Multiple TV screens create a sports bar energy ideal for rugby fans. Cozy vibe and live music blend tradition with fun.

An authentic Irish pub with a great draft list, friendly atmosphere, and excellent pub food. The owner and team create a welcoming vibe, making it a solid spot to watch rugby.

People are saying

"The staff here makes watching live sports feel like you're with friends."

"I found it to be a brilliant, friendly Irish pub with proper pints."

"The bar's atmosphere is relaxed yet lively with 20 TVs."

Good to know

1

The pub opens at 6:30 am for early sports events like EPL matches.

2

Parking on Taylor Street can be challenging; consider public transport.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during major sports events.

13
Cary's Lounge image 1

Neighborhood pub shines with live Americana music and a well-maintained pool table. Cozy bar offers great drink prices and fun events like trivia nights. Outdoor patio and friendly cat MEL add to the laid-back vibe locals love.

A cozy, laid-back spot with great drink prices and a welcoming vibe. It features fun events like trivia nights and live performances, plus a well-maintained pool table and a friendly bar cat named MEL.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar where you can hang out and meet interesting people."

"You can relax on the beautiful back patio."

"You've got to try their strong cocktails; they really know how to mix them."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music events often start in the afternoon on weekends.

3

Food delivery is allowed, but limited food options are available on-site.

14
Walsh's Bar & Grill image 1

Cozy bar with a small town vibe and affordable prices offers cold beer and signature pocket sandwiches. Regulars create a pleasant, chill atmosphere with darts and gaming machines adding fun. Service is solid and seating is ample for a relaxed night out.

Offers cheap beer, darts, and gaming machines with plenty of seating. The vibe is super chill with great people and solid service. Food includes unique options and a signature dish at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar with a wonderful vibe."

"The white chicken chili is perfect, especially in the fall."

"They had a great beer selection and the service was excellent."

Good to know

1

The bar offers a variety of cheap beers and affordable food options.

2

Darts and gaming machines are available for entertainment.

3

Happy hour specials are available on weekdays from 4-6pm.

15
Whirlaway Lounge image 1

Classic dive bar with a long solid wood bar offers a cozy spot for locals. Enjoy the coldest beer and watch sports in a friendly neighborhood setting. Cash-only and fair prices keep the old-school charm alive.

A tiny, quiet, and quaint neighborhood bar with a long solid wood bar and original refrigeration system. The owner creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for watching sports or relaxing with friends.

People are saying

"The bartender Maria is the kindest person I've ever met."

"This local spot's owner, Maria, creates such a welcoming environment."

"They have an extensive list of unique beers."

Good to know

1

The lounge only accepts cash payments, so bring cash when you visit.

2

Prices are very fair, making it a budget-friendly spot.

3

The lounge is great for watching sports games or relaxing with friends.

16
The Corner Bar image 1

Cozy dive bar boasts dog-friendly indoor space and a relaxed vibe. Enjoy cheap drinks with friendly service and free popcorn. Games like darts and trivia add to the fun, making it a perfect spot for locals.

Cozy neighborhood dive bar with a really relaxed vibe and dog-friendly indoor space. Offers cheap drinks and has awesome service creating a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found it to be a great, classic Chicago dive bar."

"They have darts, popcorn, and TouchTunes here."

"It's a cozy Chicago dive bar with a really relaxed vibe."

Good to know

1

The bar is dog friendly and encourages pets.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere, great for meeting new people.

3

The bar is an indoor-only establishment.

17
Landmark Pub image 1

Old school bar with a modern vibe offers live music most weekends and outdoor seating in a large parking lot. Friendly bartenders create a family-owned vibe with excellent service and good prices. Free darts and pool add to the casual, friendly energy.

A neighborhood bar with friendly bartenders and a family-owned vibe offers excellent service and good prices. Live music plays most weekends, creating a welcoming spot full of characters and fun.

People are saying

"This neighborhood bar feels like home with its friendly people and amazing staff."

"You'll have a great time with the live music here."

"I found the food here to be first rate."

Good to know

1

Landmark Pub is a cash-only bar.

2

Live music happens on Saturdays, weather permitting.

3

The pub hosts various special events throughout the year.

18
Weegee's Lounge image 1

Lounge offers a laidback atmosphere with strong classic cocktails like Wisconsin old fashioneds. Friendly bartenders serve drinks in a space featuring an immaculate patio and vintage photo booth. Cash-only policy keeps the vibe timeless and unpretentious.

An intimate, laidback spot with a beautiful interior and friendly bartenders. Cocktails are of excellent quality, and the music adds to the enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great, strong cocktails."

"The patio is perfect and immaculate."

"The cocktails here are amazing and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Weegee's Lounge only accepts cash; an ATM is available on-site.

2

There is plenty of street parking near Weegee's Lounge.

3

Weegee's serves a unique Wisconsin old-fashioned cocktail.

19
Barrelman Tavern image 1

Cozy bar with great whiskey list and local beer on tap offers a relaxed vibe with Chicago sports on sound and board games. Garage door walls and wood decor create a welcoming space. Dog friendly with bring-your-own-food policy adds to the casual feel.

A cozy neighborhood bar with a great whiskey list and plenty of local beer on tap. It features clean, modern space with huge open windows, fun board games, and always has Chicago sports on with sound.

People are saying

"It's a cozy neighborhood bar with a welcoming vibe."

"The beer here is great, and the staff are super friendly."

"This place is dog friendly; it's filled with dogs."

Good to know

1

Barrelman Tavern has no kitchen, but DoorDash deliveries work fine.

2

The tavern is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Prices at the bar are affordable, appealing to budget-conscious visitors.

20
Twisted Shamrock Pub image 1

Spacious patio and live music create a lively vibe. Upstairs private bar suits events, while downstairs feels home-like and welcoming. Staff remember drinks, adding to the team atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.

Upstairs offers a private bar perfect for events with a home-like atmosphere downstairs. Staff work behind the bar, remembering drinks and creating a team environment that adds to the welcoming vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"The outdoor seating here is so spacious."

"I enjoyed the awesome live music here."

Good to know

1

The pub hosts various events like Karaoke, Live Music, and Trivia Nights.

2

Private upstairs bar available for events and gatherings.

3

Affordable drink prices make it a great spot for casual outings.

21
Apero image 1
Wine bar

Cozy patio and detailed interior create a chic vibe for dates or small groups. Exceptional service complements natural and orange wines. Memorable appetizers and desserts make it a neighborhood staple with a relaxing backdrop.

Exceptional service and a relaxing backdrop define this wine bar. It offers a complete experience with quality wines and has become a neighborhood staple.

People are saying

"They helped me pick the perfect wine and explained its background."

"The patio is a fantastic hidden gem, perfect for warm evenings."

"This wine bar has an excellent and interesting selection."

Good to know

1

Apero does not serve food on Tuesday nights.

2

Apero has a dog-friendly patio.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounts on select wines.

22
Hall of Fame Sports Lounge #2 & Gaming image 1

Small lounge buzzes with video poker machines and plenty of TVs, creating a lively sports bar vibe. Music mixes old school house and hip-hop, keeping the dance floor active. Friendly crowd over 30 enjoys amazing drinks served by attentive staff in a clean, updated space.

Great vibes and music fill the space with plenty of high top tables, bar seating, and video poker machines. Attentive staff consistently make amazing drinks in a clean, updated setting.

People are saying

"The bar staff made amazing drinks and were so attentive."

"The bathrooms here are spotless and updated."

"The nightclub had great music and drinks for dancing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during major events.

2

You can bring takeout food to enjoy with drinks.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider using rideshare services.

23
On The Rocks By Bobby image 1

Bar offers a wide bourbon selection including Pappy 15 and affordable cocktails. Cozy ambiance with stylish decor and a whiskey wall invites relaxation or socializing. Slot machines and video gaming provide casual entertainment alongside plenty of seating options.

A bourbon-focused bar with a wide selection from Pappy 15 to well bourbons offers a large spirits selection. The space features plenty of bar seating, TVs, and lounge furniture with affordable cocktail prices.

People are saying

"This bar has a fantastic selection of spirits, especially whiskey and bourbon."

"The atmosphere here is laid back and comfortable."

"I was pleasantly surprised the samosas here are homemade."

Good to know

1

Women Day Wednesday deals are available for special discounts.

2

Cocktail prices range from $3 to $5, making them affordable.

3

A flight of whiskey can be chosen from a large selection.

24
Union Tap image 1
Bar & grill

Tiny bar buzzes with lively atmosphere and a mix of blue collar and corporate guests. Bartenders Gabby and Kiki add a special touch while TouchTunes lets you pick your own music. Outdoor patio and nearby dog walks make it a friendly spot for small groups.

Bartenders Gabby and Kiki create a special atmosphere that stands out. The bar hosts a diverse crowd from blue collar to corporate workers and maintains a very clean environment.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The staff at the outdoor seating were amazing and attentive."

"The bar staff, especially Gaby and Kiki, made the experience special."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with drink specials.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

25
Wolff's Tavern image 1

Former auction house turned dive bar offers antique decor and a friendly bartender serving cold beer. Limited seating keeps the vibe authentic and unpretentious, attracting locals who avoid yuppie crowds. Cash-only policy with ATM adds to its old-school charm.

An old dive bar with antiques hanging everywhere and a friendly bartender serving cold beer. It has limited seating and a crowd that avoids yuppie vibes, making it a classic local watering hole.

People are saying

"I thought it was the best dive bar I had been to."

"This local spot has the nicest people around."

"I considered this the absolute best dive bar."

Good to know

1

The tavern accepts cash only; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Wolff's Tavern has a relaxed, dive bar atmosphere with no pretentious crowd.

3

Expect a laid-back vibe with no dress code restrictions.

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