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Top picks in Illinois

Cool whiskey spots

Made for those who only drink whiskey in environments that match their own aesthetic.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Subourbon Whisky, Wine, & Cocktail Bar image 1
Subourbon Whisky, Wine, & Cocktail Bar image 2
Subourbon Whisky, Wine, & Cocktail Bar image 3
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Speakeasy-style cocktail bar offers a bourbon-focused atmosphere with eclectic decor and gorgeous lighting that supports easy conversation. Comfortable seating includes large booths and couches around a fireplace, creating a relaxed, intimate vibe. Live music enhances the mood without overcrowding, making it a place for quiet enjoyment and socializing.

An excellent bourbon and whiskey selection stands out here, with a whisky collection among the best around. The bartender offers good recommendations, and the atmosphere brings a sense of southern hospitality and community.

The spot offers very cool vibes and a unique atmosphere. It serves as a place to share whiskey and meet people in a fun setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are served by genuinely welcoming and knowledgeable staff."

"The atmosphere here is unique, offering a true speakeasy vibe."

"It's a cool spot to meet people and share whiskey."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required from Monday to Saturday.

2

The parking lot is conveniently located next to the bar.

3

They allow outside food, making it easy to enjoy a meal with drinks.

02
Bernardโ€™s image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy cocktail lounge with speakeasy vibes and tasteful decor offers a romantic atmosphere and excellent cocktails. Music ranges from a great lounge playlist to occasionally loud, affecting conversation. Frequented for tranquil, refined drinking and date night rendezvous.

Selection includes Japanese whiskey and specialty cocktails. The Old Fashioned with Japanese whiskey offers a unique twist on a classic.

Space offers a super cool atmosphere with a cool vibe throughout. Cocktails include an amazing selection of different drinks and high end spirits.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the cool vibe and amazing cocktails."

"I considered the whiskey selection here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested, but same-day tables are often available online.

2

Valet parking is available for guests visiting the bar.

3

Most cocktails range from $20 to $30 each.

03
Copper Fiddle Distillery image 1

Distillery space offers live music with good acoustics and a relaxed vibe that welcomes casual dress. Handcrafted spirits like rye whiskey and cocktails complement the cozy, community-oriented atmosphere. A separate bar area provides games and a quieter spot to chat away from the music.

Flights include a variety of whiskeys, featuring a straight barrel whisky and rye whiskey. The menu offers an extensive selection of house spirits beyond just whiskey.

A relaxed vibe fills the space inside, contrasting with its outside look. Live music pairs well with the whiskey bar atmosphere, creating a super cool spot to hang out.

People are saying

"I loved their creatively crafted and delicious cocktails."

"The live music here really sets a great vibe."

"You have to try their amazing whiskey flights."

Good to know

1

Live music happens on Wednesdays and weekends, with an open mic on Thursdays.

2

You can bring your own food to the distillery.

3

Popcorn is provided for guests at the distillery.

04
Delilah's image 1

Dive bar with huge whiskey selection and two bars in one spot offers a rock'n'roll atmosphere with pool tables upstairs. The vibe is cozy and chill yet can get packed and loud. Walls feature unique art, and the crowd is relaxed and knowledgeable about drinks.

Wall-to-wall and ceiling-to-floor shelves hold a crazy big whiskey selection from around the world at various price points. The vibe is a punk rock dive bar with daily deals offering $3 shots of whiskey.

A cool punk vibe fills the space with a dark, underground atmosphere. The place feels like a relaxing dive bar with a party area and amenities.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and so helpful."

"I found the whiskey selection to be extensive and impressive."

"The vibe here is so cool, it feels like a party."

Good to know

1

Delilah's allows you to bring your own food to the bar.

2

Dollar beer night happens on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

They offer daily drink specials, including $3 beers and shots.

05
Crafted 1979 Bottle Shop & Tap Room image 1

Small, quaint space combines pinball machines with a well-stocked tap room for a relaxed, fun vibe. Warm, inviting atmosphere feels like home, drawing a mix of beer enthusiasts and casual visitors. Unique single-can sales and a strong bourbon and stout selection set it apart.

Selection includes a killer whiskey selection with a variety of options. The shop offers great whiskeys alongside craft beers and meads.

Interior features pinball machines and unique seating areas. The vibe feels comfortable and fun for hanging out and enjoying beers.

People are saying

"I found a great selection of beer and bourbon here."

"It's a cool place with a great beer selection and fun games."

"I loved their killer whiskey selection."

Good to know

1

They have fun theme nights throughout the week.

2

Dogs are welcome inside the building.

3

There is a good sandwich shop next door if you're hungry.

06
The Distance Social image 1

Bar offers speakeasy vibes with a beautifully designed interior and an upstairs lounge that feels like a living room. Atmosphere stays dark and relaxing with great music enhancing the chill environment. Regulars enjoy a wide whiskey selection and unique cocktails served by knowledgeable staff.

Space has great vibes and a cool atmosphere that stands out.

People are saying

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

"I loved their amazing, flavorful, and wonderfully made cocktails."

"The bar's selection of bourbons and whiskeys is really cool."

Good to know

1

The bar offers a huge selection of spirits and bourbons.

2

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early during peak hours.

3

The venue does not serve food but offers some snacks.

07
Thornton Distilling Co. image 1

Historic building with exposed brick, chandeliers, and string lights creates a rich, old-time vibe. Atmosphere feels storied and inviting, blending history with lively energy. Features include dog-friendly outdoor patio, retro games, and a large projector for sports.

Samples include Bourbon and Pecan whiskey, both with a great finish. The whiskey matches online descriptions and includes rum and bourbon varieties. An American Single Malt Whiskey release is upcoming.

An old-time vibe fills the bar and venue space, creating a historic atmosphere. The tour offers interesting insights with attentive and informative guides.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and flavorful."

"The cocktails here are outstanding and amazing."

"The whiskey here is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

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

2

The distillery tour costs $15 and includes tastings of four signature drinks.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like New Yearโ€™s Eve.

08
Dukes Northwoods image 1

Rustic cabin design with large garage doors opening to river views creates an authentic Northwoods Wisconsin vibe. Loud, lively main area contrasts with quieter back room featuring non-high-top seating and game sounds. Multiple TVs show sports, and outdoor patio seating adds to the casual, fun atmosphere.

Offers a good selection of whiskeys alongside beers. Old Fashions stand out as a notable cocktail choice.

A big bar and lots of cool memorabilia create a unique vibe. A large rear room offers plenty of seating in a Northern bar atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, with lots of unique decor."

"They have a great whiskey selection and good beers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, featuring discounts on drinks and food.

2

The loaded bloody mary is available only on weekends from 10am to 1pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on game days, especially during Packer games.

09
The GOAT image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small space with upstairs loft and patio seating offers a cozy atmosphere that feels casual and inviting. Music plays loudly, especially near the bar, but conversations remain easy at tables. Walls display famous athlete photos, adding a unique sporty touch to the decor.

Wide selection of whiskeys and bourbons fills the menu. Whiskey flights rotate often, offering chances to try many varieties. Clear liquors are limited, but whiskey choices are plentiful.

Light fixtures stand out as a cool design feature. The atmosphere feels casual and relaxed, matching the vibe of the excellent hamburgers served.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were delicious and really good."

"The vibe inside is really cool and casual."

"They have a wide selection of whiskey and bourbon."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4-6 pm with half-off cocktails.

2

Fish tacos and a fish sandwich are the specials this month during happy hour.

3

Seating is available on the main level, upstairs, or outside.

10
McDill's Irish Pub image 1

Pub offers outdoor patio seating with garage doors that open to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Atmosphere feels upbeat and chill with live music and multiple entertainment options like pool tables and darts. Space is clean and modern with plenty of seating and a welcoming vibe.

A very good selection of Irish whiskeys and scotch stands out here. Drink portions are notably small, with some of the smallest whisky glasses poured around.

Plenty of seating and an outdoor patio create a relaxed vibe. Dart boards, gaming, and music add to the cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I loved the great whiskey and scotch list here."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, with plenty of seating and music."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect a wait for food during busy hours.

3

The pub is family-friendly and allows dogs.

11
Whiskey Bend image 1
Gastropub

Gastropub combines prohibition-style decor with a modern outdoor patio featuring live music and a fire-lit porch. Atmosphere is lively and fun but can be very loud, making conversation difficult. Seating includes many two-top tables and private patio sections for groups.

Over 100 whiskey options include bourbon, scotch, and unique pours like Blood Oath and Ezra Brooks. Several premium labels such as Blanton's and E.H. Taylor are available, paired with a spacious patio and midweek Happy Hour specials.

Courtyard offers a fun vibe with cool drinks. The atmosphere feels too cool for school.

People are saying

"The dinner portions here are surprisingly large and delicious."

"I loved their wide selection of whiskeys and bourbons."

"The drinks here are cool and the menu is creative."

Good to know

1

Parking around Whiskey Bend can be a pain.

2

Happy hour is from 4 to 6pm on weekdays.

3

The menu offers gluten-free options on some items.

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