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Top picks in Illinois

Dive bars with outdoor seating

Made for those who want the casual atmosphere of a dive bar but refuse to stay indoors when the weather is clear.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Montrose Saloon image 1
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Live music bar

Small live music bar offers an intimate venue with authentic performances by local bands. The atmosphere is chill and friendly, often crowded on weekends, with music loud enough to limit conversation. A large outdoor patio provides a relaxed space that contrasts the cozy, sometimes hot interior.

Live music plays every evening, creating a lively atmosphere. The spot has strong dive bar vibes and caters to an adult crowd.

A huge outdoor patio creates a fun atmosphere with a large bar and space to eat and drink. The patio welcomes outside food and offers a spot for more introverted or claustrophobic customers.

People are saying

"The patio here is huge and has a bar."

"I love the live music they host almost every night here."

"I loved the great variety of beer, liquor, and non-alcoholic selections."

Good to know

1

Live music happens almost every night, featuring various genres including rock and alternative.

2

Cover charges apply for entry, so be prepared to pay upon arrival.

3

The venue allows outside food, but no food is available on-site.

02
GO Tavern & Liquors image 1

Chicago dive bar combines full bar with corner store convenience, offering a dog-friendly patio and occasional outdoor barbecues. Atmosphere stays no frills and welcoming, with quiet moments during movie screenings and lively energy during sports events. Patio attracts a mix of locals, creating a relaxed and varied crowd.

Random guy and a cooler full of tamales add to the authentic dive bar vibe. It captures classic Chicago dive bar atmosphere perfectly.

Back patio offers a dog-friendly space with a mix of people like punks, hipsters, yuppies, and older folks enjoying the sun. It stays uncrowded on Friday nights and provides a pleasant outdoor spot.

People are saying

"This dive bar has friendly patrons and great energy."

"I loved the enjoyable patio."

"This is Chicago dive bar at its best."

Good to know

1

The bar allows outside food like slices and sandwiches.

2

Prices are affordable for both drinks and snacks.

3

The bar is open late for night owls.

03
Electric Funeral image 1

Bar combines speakeasy style with a macabre metal theme and horror decor. Atmosphere is dark and electrifying, with loud music and warm neighborhood energy. Large patio offers outdoor space for smoking and socializing.

Dark, pseudo-evil aesthetic sets a unique tone. It blends an old school dive bar vibe with a clean, quirky atmosphere that feels like a mix of a speakeasy and funeral parlor.

A decent-sized patio sits out back, perfect for hanging out and enjoying the weather. Music from inside carries outside, and the space allows for smoking while still soaking up the vibe.

People are saying

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

"It's a classic dive bar with a fun atmosphere."

"The staff at the outdoor seating were super friendly."

Good to know

1

Electric Funeral hosts themed pop-up nights regularly.

2

Beer and shot specials are available, typically for $7.

3

The bar does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

04
The Landing Strip Bar and Grill image 1

Bar and grill with outdoor patio and live music creates a casual, fun vibe. Friendly patrons gather to play darts, cornhole, and pool while enjoying cheap beer. Aviation fans notice planes landing overhead, adding a unique touch to the atmosphere.

Dive bar vibes hit immediately, with a straightforward, unpretentious atmosphere. The setup invites stepping outside first, adding to its authentic dive bar feel.

Outdoor seating features a spacious patio with a friendly outside bar and live music. The area includes outdoor dart boards and suits group gatherings well.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great atmosphere and fun bar games."

"The food here is amazing and out of this world."

"It really felt like a dive bar."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of seating available both indoors and outdoors.

2

Parking is limited due to the bar's popular location.

3

The beer is priced at $3, making it affordable.

05
Goldyburgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old-school dive bar with vintage Irish pub decor and an antique tin ceiling creates a worn-in charm atmosphere. The space feels cozy and inviting, with a secluded outdoor beer garden offering picnic tables and a flat-screen TV. Regulars know each other, giving it a neighborhood bar vibe despite its rough exterior.

Much larger inside than it looks outside, this dive bar offers really good drinks that stand out for the style. The space feels open and welcoming for anyone into a classic dive bar vibe.

An enclosed outdoor courtyard offers picnic tables and a flat-screen TV. The space suits small get-togethers and gatherings with friends.

People are saying

"This dive bar has a charming, old-school feel."

"The burgers here are big, juicy, and made with fresh ingredients."

"The Outdoor Seating has a cozy, vintage Irish pub vibe."

Good to know

1

Goldyburgers accepts only cash payments.

2

There is an ATM on site in case I forget to bring cash.

3

The total for two burgers, two Cokes, and a small order of wings was $54.

06
Dutch Inn West image 1

Bar offers spacious indoor and outdoor areas with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that welcomes everyone. Regular activities like bingo, karaoke, and live bands create a lively, engaging vibe. Known for reasonably priced food and drinks, including a standout fish fry and cold beer.

Small size and authentic dive bar vibe stand out here. The place feels unpretentious and keeps a casual atmosphere.

Patio offers a great outdoor setup with a beer garden featuring bingo, karaoke, giant Connect 4, and Jenga. Multiple ways exist to enjoy the space, inside or outside, with or without watching sports.

People are saying

"I found the bar to have a great, lively atmosphere."

"You have to play bingo; it's the most fun activity here."

"The fish fry here is hot, tasty, and crispy."

Good to know

1

Bingo night is a popular event every Monday and Wednesday.

2

Free food and raffles are available during bingo events.

3

Tuesday is half-price burger day, making it a great deal.

07
Best Intentions image 1

Bar combines retro neighborhood vibe with a large hidden patio and video games. Atmosphere feels like a local pub with country and rock music, attracting a crowd mostly over 45 years old. Cocktails are creative and the setting mixes funky, nostalgic elements with consistent comfort.

Craft cocktails stand out in a dive bar setting with an old school dive bar vibe. The atmosphere feels slightly fancy yet maintains a clean, adorable dive bar aesthetic.

A fantastic patio offers a cool vibe and great atmosphere. The outdoor seating is packed and perfect for enjoying creative cocktails.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best bar in the city."

"I found the smash burger to be delicious and great."

"It's an adorable dive bar with an old school vibe."

Good to know

1

The bar can get quite crowded, especially on weekends.

2

Seating is first come, first serve, so arrive early.

3

Parking in the area may be a little difficult.

08
Mitchell's Tap image 1

Sizable beer garden with patio games like darts, bags, and shuffleboard creates a chill atmosphere. Locals gather here, often watching games with lively energy and occasional loud cheering. The space combines indoor and outdoor seating with a casual, dive bar vibe.

Offers a true dive bar vibe with a cool little atmosphere for drinks.

Big back patio offers bags and darts for games. Numerous tables line one wall and fill the beer garden outside. Toilets inside and out stay very clean.

People are saying

"This bar is a great local dive with a fun backyard."

"I found it to be a spot mainly for locals."

"It's a cool little dive bar to have a drink."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen regularly and are quite entertaining.

2

The backyard atmosphere is enjoyable during events.

3

The indoor and outdoor toilets are generally very clean.

09
Max's Place image 1

Neighborhood dive bar with affordable drinks, dog-friendly patio, and LGBTQ+ welcoming vibe. Music plays from a jukebox and sound system, creating a lively but relaxed atmosphere. Regulars chat easily, making it a friendly local hangout.

Offers a down-to-earth dive bar vibe with decently priced drinks and a queer-friendly atmosphere. Features a patio, TVs, and TouchTunes, attracting a fun, local crowd.

A back patio offers a smoke-free, adorable outdoor spot with TVs and TouchTunes. The non-descript outside entrance makes finding the patio feel like a discovery.

People are saying

"You can get a great selection of cold beers here."

"It's a classic dive bar with a very queer-friendly vibe."

"The outdoor seating has a great dive bar vibe."

Good to know

1

Max's Place is LGBTQ+ friendly and owned.

2

The bar has the cheapest drink prices around town.

3

Credit cards are accepted, making payment easy.

10
Rosie O Reilly's image 1

Cozy dive bar with a classic jukebox and cold beers creates an authentic, lively atmosphere. Locals gather for darts and to relax on a chill back patio with complimentary snacks. The vibe stays buzzing without trying too hard, making it a familiar spot to catch up and swap stories.

Cozy and unpretentious with cold beers and a classic jukebox. The vibe feels authentic and relaxed.

Great patio areas include an outdoor tent that seats large groups. Complimentary snacks come with outdoor seating, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and make you feel welcomed."

"The outdoor seating here is so cozy and unpretentious."

"It's a cozy, unpretentious dive bar with friendly locals."

Good to know

1

Food is served in the evenings a few days a week.

2

Rosie O Reilly's gets super crowded on a busy night.

3

The food and drinks were reasonably priced.

11
Old Munich Tavern & Grill image 1

Dive bar with tight seating and lively atmosphere offers late-night entertainment including pool, darts, karaoke, and slot machines. Outdoor patio provides a classic throwback vibe that suits casual gatherings. Ice cold beer and well-prepared burgers complement the energetic, noisy environment.

Chill vibe sets the tone with a quintessential dive bar atmosphere. It suits late-night entertainment and keeps things relaxed and casual.

A newer outdoor patio offers a nice spot to sit when the weather is good. The patio includes a gaming section and various activities to enjoy outside.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the burgers and cheese curds, was wonderful."

"I found the beer selection to be great and unique."

"It's a nice little dive bar with a good buzz."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, starting at 9pm.

2

The bar is open until 4am from Tuesday to Sunday.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early for karaoke.

12
Lottie's Pub image 1

Old pub from the 1930s with historic essence and spacious outdoor seating featuring multiple TVs. Loud, energetic atmosphere with an incredible DJ and family-friendly activities. Known as a comfortable neighborhood hangout and dive bar with a fun vibe and good drinks.

Floor in the back holds a funky smell that adds to the authentic old dive bar vibe. It feels like a routine local spot with classic dive bar character.

Spacious patio offers a chill vibe with a nice breeze. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and easy without pretension, welcoming families and pets alike.

People are saying

"I visited this bar because it was featured in Chicago Fire."

"The outdoor seating is spacious and great for a warm night."

"It's a great local dive bar with an authentic old vibe."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday from 7 to 9 PM.

2

Lottie's Pub hosts late night DJ dancing on weekends.

3

Private event rentals are available for the basement area.

13
Loafers Bar image 1

Neighborhood dive bar with a secluded patio featuring artificial grass, a pool table, and a TouchTunes machine. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming with a diverse clientele including regulars and first-time visitors. Space has a rough-around-the-edges charm and a friendly vibe.

Cold beer comes only in cans, no taps to question. A big Old Style sign marks this spot as a true neighborhood dive bar. It feels like a perfect local hangout for dive bar fans.

A secluded patio sits in the back with artificial grass underfoot. It includes a TouchTunes machine and a pool table for entertainment.

People are saying

"The bartender Pam made my experience feel like home."

"Pam and Andrew make karaoke nights so joyful and welcoming."

"It's a damn good dive bar with loyal patrons."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

14
Yankee Doodle image 1
Bar & grill

Small bar with outdoor patio and jukebox music creates a chill, inclusive vibe. Crowd is diverse and local, enjoying expertly curated indie and deep cut songs. Atmosphere feels like a community hub where time slows and conversations flow.

Offers a dive bar atmosphere with skilled bartenders and quality food. Combines casual vibes with solid service and eats.

A small bar offers a decent outdoor area with a cute patio to hang out and enjoy food and drinks. Screens are set up in the outdoor patio space.

People are saying

"The bar service here is so welcoming and quick, I'll be back!"

"It's a great dive bar with awesome food and great bartenders."

"The burgers here are mouth-watering, especially with outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Yankee Doodle now serves food alongside drinks.

2

Expect a relaxed atmosphere with gaming options available.

3

The bar is a small local joint, perfect for casual meetups.

15
Small Bar image 1

Small bar offers a cozy, old Chicago vibe with a small, crowded interior and a heated patio that expands the space. The atmosphere is loud and lively, filled with fun music and a friendly energy. It attracts a mix of people who enjoy quality burgers and cold beers in a neighborhood setting.

Feels like a home dive bar with a charming dive bar vibe inside. It operates as a $2 million bar acquisition but keeps the neighborhood dive bar spirit alive.

The outdoor patio offers heating, a roof, and fans for comfort and includes two large TVs. It provides shady, dog-friendly seating with communal tables and extra space when open.

People are saying

"The smash burgers here are a greasy, delicious mess."

"The burgers here are incredible, with cheese and grilled onions."

"The smash burgers here are a greasy, delicious mess."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a 45-minute wait during peak hours after 6pm.

3

The menu now offers only two types of smash burgers.

16
Reggies Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Multilevel bar and grill with live bands and a rooftop deck featuring a basketball hoop creates a punk rock vibe. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, often very loud with dark, moody lighting. Seating includes comfy balcony spots and ample bars throughout the venue.

Three levels and a rooftop create a dive bar on steroids vibe. Food sticks to classic dive bar fare, with crispy fried pickle spears standing out.

Outdoor seating includes a rooftop patio with a bar and a front patio where a blues jazz soul band plays. The patio offers a great spot to enjoy food like pulled pork sandwiches and fries.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the pulled pork, is some of the best I've had."

"It's a cool dive spot with an amazing vibe."

"The outdoor seating is great for live music and comedy shows."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshares.

2

The venue hosts live music events almost every weekend.

3

Food service ends at 10pm, so plan accordingly.

17
Fast Eddie's Bon Air image 1

Bar offers live music with a large outdoor patio featuring a retractable roof and misting fans. Atmosphere mixes dated decor with a fun, lively vibe that suits celebrations and casual gatherings. Beers come ice cold in frosted glasses, enhancing the relaxed energy.

Classic dive bar atmosphere blends with a mix of Cracker Barrel and Fast Eddie style decor. The vibe stays true to the ultimate dive bar feel.

Outdoor seating features a large patio with heaters and misting fans to keep guests comfortable in cold or warm weather. Live music plays regularly, and the space includes a covered tent area and a designated smoking section.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and inexpensive."

"The outdoor seating has great live music and a lively atmosphere."

"I thought it was a great dive bar."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as they only take cash.

2

Fast Eddie's Bon Air is for patrons aged 21 and up only.

3

Live music events occur regularly, featuring country and hip hop genres.

18
Frank and Mary's Tavern image 1

Classic dive bar with a fishing theme and historic charm updated through thoughtful renovations. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, attracting an older crowd who share stories in a lively yet low-key setting. Features include outdoor seating, multiple TVs, and a jukebox system, with music leaning toward pop country and hip-hop rather than punk or metal.

Strong dive bar vibe with a cool, unpolished atmosphere. It leans slightly toward a hipster feel but keeps the classic dive bar spirit.

Outdoor seating includes a patio with good sunlight during spring and summer. Staff sometimes move customers outside abruptly, even into the rain, and continue service there.

People are saying

"It's a great old neighborhood bar with a cool dive feel."

"I loved the cool dive bar feel of this place."

"I missed their weekday lunch special, but the outdoor seating is nice."

Good to know

1

Lunch is served from 11 AM to 2 PM on weekdays.

2

They host a Monday Night Foodball pop-up event.

3

Expect a rotating selection of local cooks at food pop-ups.

19
Phyllis’ Musical Inn image 1

Classic dive bar with live jazz, rock, and blues music fills dim rooms and a beer garden patio with energy. Atmosphere blends older male clientele and rowdy younger groups, creating a lively, unpolished vibe. Furniture and decor show years of use, adding character and warmth to the space.

A classic dive bar with a beer garden and live blues music. It has a typical dive bar look but prices run higher than usual for the style.

Outdoor area includes a sick back patio and a nice yard with live music. Groups can be seated outside, enjoying the patio vibes during warmer weather.

People are saying

"The beer selection and atmosphere here are amazing."

"It's a dive with great energy for a good party."

"The outdoor seating has a great patio with live music."

Good to know

1

The bar is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.

2

There is no cover charge for entry.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with local bands performing regularly.

20
Kasey's Tavern image 1

Classic dive bar with dark wood decor and extensive beer selection including rare taps like Pabst Blue Ribbon and Belgian beers. Friendly, down-to-earth vibe with a lively local crowd and rock music playing from a jukebox. Offers outdoor seating and allows bringing in food, featuring popular pizza and crispy wings.

Dark wood walls create a classic dive bar vibe. The place offers a top-tier beer selection and a wide range of liquor.

Outdoor seating includes a nice patio on the street. Both outdoor and indoor areas offer good options. The patio works well in warmer months.

People are saying

"They have a great beer selection with tons of options."

"The outdoor seating here was very nice."

"It's a classic dive bar with a top-tier beer selection."

Good to know

1

Contactless pay isn't available at Kasey's Tavern.

2

Customers can bring in outside food if they prefer.

3

Kasey's Tavern has several gluten-free options, including ciders and beers.

21
Bird's Nest image 1
Bar & grill

Neighborhood bar with laid-back atmosphere and classic Chicago feel offers plenty of TVs for sports fans and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Crowded seating and rowdy energy appear during busy times, balanced by friendly vibe and casual crowd. Known for some of the best wings in Chicago, it suits groups and casual hangouts alike.

An iconic neighborhood spot with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of screens for Sunday football. It has a tight and rowdy vibe with a young crowd and some of the best wings in the city.

Outdoor seating offers a dog friendly patio with attentive service. Plenty of space on the side and patio makes it easy to catch a game or enjoy a classic Chicago vibe outside.

People are saying

"The wings here are crispy, juicy, and perfectly sauced."

"This dive bar has some of the best wings in the city."

"I loved the outdoor seating because it's dog friendly."

Good to know

1

Bird's Nest offers daily drink specials that are worth checking out.

2

Happy hour deals are available, making it a great time to visit.

3

The kitchen closes more than two hours before the posted closing time.

22
Half Shell image 1
Seafood restaurant

Underground seafood spot with old-school charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere. Small bar and dining area complement an authentic fish shack style with an outdoor patio lively during warm days. The vibe suits casual meals and business talks alike.

Cold beer flows freely in a spot with a strong dive bar vibe. King crab legs add a surprising twist to the usual dive bar fare.

Upstairs patio offers lively outdoor seating during warm, sunny days. The space feels fun and cozy, adding to the overall ambience.

People are saying

"The grilled oysters here were excellent."

"This dive bar serves unbelievably fresh, high-end seafood."

"The outdoor seating is perfect on a warm fall evening."

Good to know

1

Half Shell is a cash-only establishment; bring cash to pay.

2

Happy hour features $1 oysters, making it a great time to visit.

3

There is no waiting area, so arrive early to secure a table.

23
The Boss Bar image 1

Bar combines sports bar and dive bar elements with a single pool table and a semi double story design. Atmosphere stays laid back with lively traffic and a cool DJ playing music patrons pick. Outdoor patio offers a local vibe distinct from upscale spots.

Combines a local vibe with elements of a sports bar and an elevated dive bar atmosphere. Offers a cool, casual setting typical of a dive bar.

A small patio out front offers a spot to enjoy cocktails or beers. Outdoor seating comes with some rules, like needing a belt to enter from the patio.

People are saying

"The bar has a really great atmosphere and a cool vibe."

"I thought this place had an elevated dive bar atmosphere."

"I enjoyed the nice outdoor seating and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Bring your ID to enter The Boss Bar.

2

The bar is open late, making it a good option for late-night travelers.

3

The entrance is not ADA compliant.

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