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Best of Illinois

Dive bars with sandwiches

A sandwich that justifies a trip to a dive bar, proving that the kitchen cares as much about the bread as the tap list.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Gustos Bar & Grill image 1
Gustos Bar & Grill image 2
Gustos Bar & Grill image 3
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Neighborhood bar with a cozy, down-to-earth vibe and a large U-shaped bar inside. Entertainment includes darts, pool, live music, and a small casino area, creating a lively but low-key atmosphere. Regulars mix with newcomers, enjoying affordable prices and a fancy patio for relaxing outdoors.

A cool little dive bar with a fancy patio offers a relaxed spot to hang out. It serves as a regular go-to for casual drinks and good vibes.

Pot roast sandwich comes with caramelized onions and Swiss cheese on a fresh pretzel bun. Burgers share the same bun and both taste good.

People are saying

"You have to try the bar's amazing burgers; they're cooked perfectly."

"This dive bar has darts and a pool table for fun."

"I found the pot roast sandwich to be very good."

Good to know

1

They host bingo nights regularly, which can be a fun activity.

2

Daily specials are available, making it budget-friendly.

3

A $10 minimum is required for credit or debit card payments.

02
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.

Chicken sandwich stands out as a solid choice with good flavor. Burgers and chicken nachos also feature on the menu alongside other sandwiches.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the chicken sandwich was very good."

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.

03
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.

Reuben sandwich stands out as a top choice with a rich, satisfying flavor. The steak sandwich also impresses, served with a delicious sauce that complements the meat well.

People are saying

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

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

"I've never had a better sandwich; it's the best I've ever eaten."

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.

04
The Dam Bar & Grill image 1

Small, cozy bar with an old character and dive bar vibe in an upscale town. Atmosphere feels friendly and vibrant, with classic rock, country, and soul music. Multiple TVs, darts, and Golden Tee offer casual entertainment alongside a large bar in a compact space.

Atmosphere has a charming dive bar vibe despite the upscale setting. Darts are a popular activity here, adding to the casual feel.

Ribeye and Reuben sandwiches stand out with hefty meat portions and well-prepared sauces. Fresh fish sandwiches come with fantastic onion rings on the side.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the fish sandwich, was amazing."

"The service here is so welcoming, it feels like family."

"The fish sandwich here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Friday all-you-can-eat fish fry is popular; arrive early for seating.

2

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos, but expect a busy atmosphere.

3

Plenty of boat and car parking is available nearby.

05
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.

Pulled pork sandwiches come topped with fried onions and pair well with fries. Chicken sandwiches are huge and the menu includes creative burgers and nuggets alongside other sandwiches.

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."

"I loved the atmosphere and friendly vibe of this place."

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.

06
The Green Door Tavern image 1

Cozy dive bar with historic wooden interiors and a hidden speakeasy downstairs creates a unique old-school vibe. Social and friendly atmosphere fills the space with nostalgic memorabilia and warm energy. Regulars enjoy spinning a shot wheel and relaxing with good music and sports on TV.

Cozy spot with historic appeal and a full bar. Offers a food menu alongside classic dive bar vibes.

The Crispy Braised beef sandwich stands out as a large, satisfying option. Other notable choices include the blackened chicken sandwich with fries and a Reuben sandwich priced at $18.

People are saying

"The bartender Autumn's energy made the whole bar feel more enjoyable."

"The crispy beef sandwich was a monster, totally satisfying."

"It's a cozy dive bar with loads of historic appeal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the downstairs speakeasy to ensure entry.

2

The hidden bar opens later in the evening, providing a unique experience.

3

Happy hour offers late night food and drink specials.

07
The Fogcutter image 1

Small, cozy bar with a dive bar atmosphere and casual vibe. Interior includes a fireplace and plenty of TVs showing sports, creating a lively but relaxed setting. Frequented for its authentic charm and fun energy, it draws a steady crowd enjoying good food and drinks.

Offers a classic dive bar atmosphere with a fun, casual vibe. Prices stay very affordable, matching typical dive bar standards.

Chicken sandwich stands out as very flavorful, while the Reuben sandwich comes loaded with corned beef. Sandwiches here are generally large in size, though some grilled chicken sandwiches can be dry.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was top notch and delicious."

"I thought the $5 burger was the best I've ever had."

"The Reuben sandwich was loaded with corned beef and juicy."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Saturday nights hosted by DJ Bubbles.

2

Tuesdays offer half-price pizzas, making it a great deal.

3

Bingo starts at 9 PM, so arrive early to get a good seat.

08
Cardozo's Pub image 1
Italian restaurant

Basement pub channels old school Chicago with walls lined by legal textbooks, creating a divey yet nostalgic atmosphere. Dim lighting and chill vibes make it a cozy spot for casual drinks and relaxed conversation. The crowd tends to enjoy a laid-back, unpretentious setting away from upscale venues.

Small size and understaffed bar staff stand out in this Loop dive bar. It holds a reputation as a solid spot for a casual drink.

Chicken parm sandwich stands out with its homemade style and solid flavor. Meatball sandwich matches a basic deli standard but prices can be high compared to quality.

People are saying

"This pub feels like a hidden gem, perfect for a laid-back drink."

"It's got this old school vibe with legal textbooks lining the walls."

"The Dive Bar deals are pretty cheap, like $10 for a burger, fries, and beer."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% automatic gratuity for parties of two or more.

2

Happy hour features $5 call drinks and draft beer on Mondays.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy a burger, fries, and a beer for $10.

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