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Top picks in Chicago

Affordable bars

A bar that keeps things affordable without making you feel like you are sacrificing your standards just to save a few dollars.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Green Light Korean Pub & Karaoke rooms image 1
Green Light Korean Pub & Karaoke rooms image 2
Green Light Korean Pub & Karaoke rooms image 3
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Private karaoke rooms offer spacious, intimate settings for groups up to eight, with aesthetic decor enhancing the experience. The atmosphere stays welcoming and fun, supported by a wide soju selection and authentic Korean food. Multiple levels and steps require attention while moving around.

Private karaoke rooms offer a great vibe and amazing service. The bar serves delicious drinks alongside top-tier Korean pub food.

Rooms stay affordable on Thursday and Friday nights with specials and discounts. Private karaoke rooms offer a fun and budget-friendly option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the garlic chicken wings."

"The Karaoke staff, like Oui and Liz, were super friendly and helpful."

"The staff here are so sweet and friendly."

Good to know

1

Karaoke rooms can be rented for a few hours; book in advance.

2

The karaoke selection is extensive and connected through YouTube.

3

Food and drinks are available, with a good variety of Korean options.

02
PrimeTime Bar & Grill image 1

Sports bar with plenty of TVs showing all games creates a lively atmosphere for watching sports. Smashburgers and local beers stand out as popular choices. Casino game machines and darts add casual entertainment alongside the energetic vibe.

A sports bar with a strong local vibe offers craft beers and smashburgers alongside games on screen. The bar serves solid cocktails and fresh bar food that fits well with watching the game.

Smash burgers come at affordable prices. Food and beers stay budget-friendly with a staff focused on keeping the experience fun and affordable.

People are saying

"The smash burgers here have a phenomenal crust and wonderful flavor."

"I thought the smashburger at this bar was excellent."

"The smash burgers are amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available, perfect for budget-conscious diners.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun activity for guests.

3

Chicago game day deals offer discounts during local sports events.

03
Beck's Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Cozy bar with an old bar vibe and plenty of seating, featuring multiple TVs for sports viewing and a nice outdoor patio. Atmosphere stays chill with a college bar energy, attracting a local crowd looking for a relaxed night out.

Awesome bartenders manage the bar and tables efficiently, even when handling both alone. The spot has a strong local vibe with a solid reputation in the area.

Offers a wide variety of food and drink options at affordable prices. The food is not pricey and fits well within a budget.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and make great drinks."

"The chicken breast in the salad was so tender."

"The food and drink options here are pretty affordable."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7:30pm.

2

Parking is easy to find right in front on Monday nights.

3

They offer a wide variety of food and drink options at affordable prices.

04
Annoyance Theatre & Bar image 1

Small performance space creates an intimate setting with a warm, inclusive vibe. Bar area offers a lively, eclectic atmosphere where drinks can be enjoyed during shows. Comedy features creative, unapologetically real performances with fun audience participation.

Lively events and drag shows create a whimsical and goofy vibe. The bar offers great drinks, decent prices, and attentive staff in a lowkey setting.

Ticket prices stay super affordable and the bar offers affordable drinks and food. The venue delivers a fun experience with memorable comedy without breaking the bank.

People are saying

"I found the improv shows here to be a blast and the actors amazing."

"The bar has great drinks and good company."

"I found the tickets and drinks to be super affordable."

Good to know

1

Tickets are very affordable, making it a great value for live performances.

2

The theatre is located near the red line station for easy access.

3

There is no minimum drink requirement at the bar.

05
U-Star karaoke image 1

Private rooms offer spacious, soundproofed spaces with top-notch sound systems and endless song selections including YouTube access. The atmosphere stays fun and vibey, welcoming groups for parties or casual nights out. Cleanliness and comfortable decor support a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe. The bar offers an amazing karaoke experience with great service.

Rooms stay clean and come at a very affordable price. Drinks and karaoke sessions also keep costs low.

People are saying

"I had the best karaoke night of my life here."

"This karaoke bar is super fun and I had the best time."

"I found the rooms to be clean and affordable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups of 15 or more people.

2

Parking is free and easy to find near the venue.

3

The karaoke machine has a huge selection of songs and is user-friendly.

06
The Hi-Lo image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers spacious patio with fireplace and dog-friendly indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays chill and warm, with high-end craft cocktails and occasional street food vendors. Crowd enjoys relaxed vibes, especially around the covered outdoor bar area.

Outdoor and indoor spaces offer distinct vibes with a three-area layout that lets you choose your experience. Friendly staff handle the craft cocktail demand well, blending classic bar elements with affordable drinks.

Affordable domestic beers and an $8 beer and shot special stand out here. Prices stay affordable even for craft cocktails.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the really tasty cocktails, from light and refreshing to flavorful."

"The outdoor bar patio was heated and dog-friendly."

"I found the cocktails here to be affordable and really tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm, but expect crowds during this time.

2

Reservations are recommended for events to ensure space availability.

3

The Hi-Lo allows outside food to be brought in.

07
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.

A dive bar with a friendly neighborhood vibe and affordable drinks. It offers a large beer selection, a full bar, a patio, TVs, and TouchTunes, welcoming all with a chill atmosphere.

Offers a bar with really affordable drinks that suit those looking for budget-friendly options. The place maintains good vibes alongside its affordable prices.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun dive bar with a great queer crowd."

"The drinks here are amazing and really affordable."

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.

08
Tamu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist decor and a hand roll bar create a calm, inviting atmosphere amid a busy area. The space includes a private omakase room with attentive service, offering a focused dining experience. Guests enjoy a laid-back vibe with fresh sushi and thoughtfully crafted cocktails.

A hand roll bar offers a casual spot for eating or date nights. Servers check with the chef before taking orders, ensuring fresh preparation.

Omakase offers a more affordable alternative to traditional opulent sushi spots. Pricing stays relatively affordable without cutting corners.

People are saying

"The Omakase here is delicious, with high-quality fish."

"You can get hand rolls at the bar, which is perfect for date nights."

"The omakase here is so delicious and opulent for an affordable price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the omakase table, which seats only 8 people.

2

The omakase menu is available during both lunch and dinner.

3

Happy Hour runs from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM with $5 hand rolls for dine-in.

09
Woodlawn Tap image 1

Old school dive bar with a slightly updated vibe offers a cozy, laid back atmosphere and intimate space. Jazz and blues performances on Sundays add to the wholesome, lively energy. Cash-only policy and student clientele shape the experience near campus.

An old school classic college bar with friendly bartenders and lots of space. The bar serves cash-only and offers fast, good quality dive bar food like the Swiss burger.

Food and drinks stay inexpensive thanks to a cash only policy. The menu offers affordable and tasty options throughout.

People are saying

"This neighborhood bar is a timeless, friendly staple."

"I found their greasy burgers and excellent fries unbeatable."

"I found the food and drinks here to be affordable and tasty."

Good to know

1

Woodlawn Tap is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for your visit.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially on weekends with a college crowd.

3

Live music events occur on certain nights, adding to the bar's vibe.

10
Sushi by Bou- Gold Coast Chicago @ Claridge House image 1

Dark, moody decor channels a Roaring 20s speakeasy vibe with intricate, classy details. Atmosphere stays chill and friendly, suited for serious sushi lovers and date nights. Sushi quality is consistently high-end and creative, paired with well-crafted cocktails and sake.

Chelsea and Madde behind the bar pick drinks that match your taste perfectly. Sitting at the bar lets you chat with the staff and get dish explanations from the chef.

Omakase here comes at a very affordable price. The experience offers great value without cutting corners on quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is phenomenal, thanks to the phenomenal team."

"The Omakase chefs here are true artists."

"The bar staff here make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the omakase experience, especially on weekends.

2

The 12-course omakase meal costs $65 per person and lasts about 40 minutes.

3

The 17-course upgrade is available for $100, providing a more balanced experience.

11
Burton Place image 1
Bar & grill

Dive-bar style space offers crowded seating, pool tables, and a jukebox for entertainment. Atmosphere stays laid-back and bumpin' with music and activity, attracting groups and sports fans. Kitchen stays open late, serving bar food favorites like ribs and Buffalo chicken tenders.

A dive bar with a classic vibe offers darts, a solid beer selection, and great prices. Bar food comes out hot and fast, making it a solid spot for drinks and late-night pub grub.

Affordable drinks and tasty food make this spot easy on the wallet. Both food and drinks stay consistently budget-friendly.

People are saying

"Mario made me a virgin mojito and talked wrestling."

"I found this to be my favorite local spot to visit."

"The drinks and food here are surprisingly affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday with discounted drinks.

2

The kitchen stays open late for food after midnight.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

12
S2 Grill - Stony image 1

Upscale restaurant with beautiful decor and fast food feel offers a lively atmosphere with RnB music and a party vibe. Frozen daiquiris come from a signature drink machine with many flavors, complementing dishes like shrimp and grits or lamb chops. The space includes an event area and features a professional photographer.

The bar features a daiquiri flight and offers happy hour specials. Staff like Alexis, Denise, Sean, and Ashley provide attentive service that enhances the experience.

Daily specials and happy hour offer affordable meals. Prices stay consistently budget-friendly throughout the menu.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The bar staff here are so welcoming and make great drinks."

"I found the daily specials and meals to be affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 4-7 PM with great drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

The restaurant requires payment upfront, including a 15% gratuity.

13
Cove Lounge image 1

Neighborhood dive bar with a spacious interior and stylish mural offers a diverse jukebox instead of live music. Atmosphere feels cozy yet lively, filled mostly with regulars who know each other. Drinks are inexpensive and strong, making it a simple, easygoing spot without food service.

Feels like a real-life version of Cheers with an easygoing pub vibe and a neighborhood dive bar atmosphere. Offers super-boozy drinks like Old Fashioneds for around $10 and hosts events like karaoke nights.

Drinks come at inexpensive prices here. Games and drinks both offer an affordable way to spend time.

People are saying

"It's a friendly neighborhood bar where everyone knows each other."

"This local spot makes you feel like family once they know you."

"I found the drinks to be inexpensive."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night, starting at 10pm.

2

Cove Lounge does not serve food, but you can bring your own.

3

The bar only accepts cash payments.

14
Sushi by Bou- Fulton Market Chicago @ Emily Hotel image 1

Small, intimate restaurant with 12 seats and a speakeasy vibe featuring 90s hip hop music and graffiti art. Atmosphere feels lively yet personal, enhanced by craft cocktails and attentive service. Known for high-quality sushi and an engaging omakase experience.

Bartenders like Tashon, Stephanie, and Tashen offer a warm welcome and friendly service. The lounge area provides a relaxed spot while drinks and food are prepared.

Omakase here offers great quality at a more affordable price than many other spots. The setting feels cute while keeping costs down.

People are saying

"The Japanese food service was so personal and professional, it made the evening special."

"The chefs at this bar bring personality and passion to every bite."

"I found the omakase to be excellent and affordable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating.

2

Karaoke sessions are available during visits.

3

The omakase experience costs $65 for 12 pieces of sushi.

15
Zero Degree Karaoke Bar & Club image 1

Karaoke bar with modern private rooms featuring top-notch sound systems and extensive song selections, including YouTube access. Lighting and audio create a lively, vibrant atmosphere that suits both singing and dancing. Space accommodates large groups comfortably, blending a relaxed vibe with energetic club elements.

Karaoke bars here offer private rooms with custom-made glass tables and a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Prices stay reasonable, making them popular spots to hang out on weekends.

Rooms stand out for being very attractive and more affordable than other Chinatown options. Food, drinks, and karaoke all offer great value without high prices.

People are saying

"I considered this one of the best karaoke spots I've been to."

"This karaoke bar is one of the best spots in the city."

"The drinks and rooms here are great and affordable."

Good to know

1

The private karaoke rooms have a 2-hour minimum booking requirement.

2

Most days, you can walk in and get a room without a reservation.

3

It's recommended to reserve ahead of time for larger parties.

16
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1

Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

A friendly bartender creates a welcoming vibe behind the bar. This spot stands out as a hidden gem for those avoiding traditional clubs and bars.

Menu items come at very affordable prices and fill you up well enough for a game or concert. Happy hour offers affordable drinks for dine-in, paired with fast service.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

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

"The food and happy hour drinks here are so affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

17
Italian Homemade Company image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious, clean interior with an open kitchen creates a transparent and inviting setting. Atmosphere stays relaxed and enveloping, with Italian new songs adding to the vibe. Pasta dishes stand out as exceptionally delicious, paired well with a selection of Italian wines and cocktails.

Recently renovated space features a well-designed full bar with an appealing setup. Sitting at the bar offers a chance to enjoy a negroni while watching the kitchen and the world outside.

Homemade pasta and sandwiches come at affordable prices without sacrificing quality. The food stays delicious and well-done while keeping costs low in a busy area.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the fresh, delicious pasta to be affordable."

"The pasta here is so fresh, it's like nonna's kitchen."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm, Monday through Friday.

2

Pasta 101 class teaches how to make authentic pasta.

3

Happy hour features $7 cocktails and espresso martinis.

18
Pizza Lobo Logan Square image 1

Outdoor seating includes a heated patio with fire pits and a gravel floor, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Music plays loudly, adding energy but making conversation difficult. The space welcomes groups, kids, and dogs, blending modern and retro design elements.

A retro Wisconsin pub vibe fills the bar area with nice, vintage decor and strong New Mexico influences. The bar team delivers top-notch service, creating an immaculate atmosphere.

Slices cost about $5 each, making pizza very affordable. Drinks also come at low prices and taste good.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was great, especially the crust."

"The pizza here is amazing, especially the hot honey pepperoni."

"The pizza here is delicious and super affordable."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, they offer $1 wings.

2

Trivia night happens on Wednesdays with a fun atmosphere.

3

Dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.

19
Hacienda Memos Restaurante image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy family atmosphere with authentic vibes and a full bar. Noise levels rise in the back dining area during large parties, and the space feels contemporary and communal. Tacos are inexpensive and tasty, drawing consistent praise.

A full bar operates inside with a good selection. The noise level stays high even in the bar area.

Tacos come at a very inexpensive price and taste good. Overall, food offers great value with consistently affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very affordable."

"I had four different tacos and all were rated 10 out of 10."

"The food here is amazing and worth trying."

Good to know

1

$1 tacos are offered on Monday nights.

2

Prices are amazing and unbeatable.

3

You can get 20 tacos and 8 wings for $25.

20
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar image 1

Pool hall offers 12 well-maintained tables including 9-foot tables in a laid back, friendly atmosphere with fantastic music. Space feels old school Chicago billiards with a no frills environment and a backyard smoking area. It gets crowded but maintains a hometown vibe with a mix of quiet and lively energy.

A full-service bar offers Prosecco for mimosas alongside a menu with quality pizza, burgers, and club sandwiches that stand out from typical bar food. The atmosphere stays laid back and friendly, with bartenders treating everyone kindly.

Beers come at affordable prices here. The overall cost stays very affordable throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty damn good."

"I found the bar had lots of well-kept pool tables."

"The beer here is affordable, with daily drink specials."

Good to know

1

Pool tables cost $14 per hour for one person, $18 for two, and $21 for three or more.

2

Expect to wait for a table on busy nights, especially league nights.

3

Parking includes metered and free spaces, with about 20 spots available in front.

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