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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Chicago

Bars

A bar that feels like a neighborhood regular rather than a crowded tourist trap.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Liar’s Club image 1
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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
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

06
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.

07
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.

08
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.

09
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.

10
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.

11
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.

12
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.

13
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.

14
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.

15
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.

16
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.

17
Tin Whistle image 1

Neighborhood bar offers a friendly atmosphere with outside seating and free dart games. It draws a local crowd and serves an excellent Guinness pour. Clean and welcoming, it keeps a strong neighborhood vibe with friendly staff.

A very local-oriented bar with friendly staff creates a strong neighborhood vibe. The bar stays clean and welcoming throughout.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar with a really friendly atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Bingo games happen every Wednesday night, providing a fun local experience.

2

Drinks are well-priced, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained for guests.

18
Shinnicks Pub image 1

Irish bar blends historical charm with a dive bar vibe. Friendly bartenders serve a fine beer selection and unique apple pie shots. Cash-only policy keeps things simple and lively for groups before and after games.

A great dive bar with Irish hospitality and a fine selection of beers. Bartenders are friendly, and it accepts only cash payments.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are some of the greatest people I've ever met."

"It's a nice place to have a cold beer."

Good to know

1

Shinnicks Pub accepts only cash payments.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially before and after Sox games.

3

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

19
The Arrogant Frog Bar image 1

Old school Chicago bar style meets a laid back vibe with dog friendly space. Pool tables and darts offer casual games for fun. Multiple TVs and a lively jukebox create an electric atmosphere with friendly staff.

Electric atmosphere with a lively jukebox and friendly staff sets the tone. Tons of space fits large groups, plus darts and pool keep things fun. Dog friendly too.

People are saying

"The bar's vibe is electric and friendly."

"It's dog friendly, you can bring your pet inside."

"I enjoyed playing darts and pool here."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens on the last Sunday of every month.

2

The bar is dog friendly, allowing pets inside.

3

Off-street parking is available for guests.

20
Filonek's Bar and Grill image 1

Small bar and grill offers a lively vibe with outdoor seating and multiple TVs. Friendly bartenders serve an amazing selection of bourbon and whiskey alongside tasty pub food like burgers and pierogis. Casual games like pool and darts add to the fun atmosphere.

A clean, well-run bar with a great atmosphere and friendly bartenders. It offers an amazing selection of bourbon and whiskey alongside great pub food like burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, and pierogis at good prices.

People are saying

"This bar has great food, especially the burgers."

"The food here is great, way above typical bar food."

"I had probably the best burger I have ever had here."

Good to know

1

The bar accepts only cash for payments.

2

Prices on food are very affordable.

3

Expect a lively crowd on game days.

21
Newark Nook image 1

Small dive bar with cozy Irish pub vibe and warm lighting feels welcoming. Draft beer shines in this authentic dive bar where locals gather. Outdoor beer garden expands the intimate setting for live music and DJs on weekends.

An authentic dive bar with a strong neighborhood corner bar atmosphere where the draft beer stands out. Everyone knows your name in this solid, local spot.

People are saying

"The live music and friendly faces made it feel like home."

"I found it to be a great dive bar with a great atmosphere."

"This neighborhood bar has a really welcoming crowd and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but there is no dedicated parking lot.

2

Expect a friendly atmosphere with regulars who know each other.

3

Live music events happen periodically, including duos and karaoke.

22
Winnie's image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar buzzes with TVs everywhere and lively energy. Healthy bar food and classic options fuel the crowd. Strong IU fan base adds to the friendly, fun environment managed by Chris, making it a top spot for game nights.

Offers healthy bar food alongside typical options. Serves as a go-to sports bar with a strong IU fan presence. Managed by Chris, who runs a great bar atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and better than expected."

"I found it to be the best sports bar around."

"I thought this was the best bar in old town."

Good to know

1

Winnie's offers a menu featuring healthy bar food made from scratch.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

3

The bar does not serve draft beers, only bottled options.

23
Legato Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Art deco lobby creates a stylish, cozy atmosphere with a retro-modern vibe. Well-crafted signature cocktails shine in a spacious bar area. Low music sets a chill, classy energy perfect for unwinding or casual chats.

Stylish and cozy with a roaring 20s inspired vibe, this bar offers well-crafted cocktails and a friendly, attentive staff. The menu has a nice variety and the seating area is spacious and comfortable.

People are saying

"Their signature cocktails are inventive and delicious."

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

"The cocktails here are art, and the bartenders really know their stuff."

Good to know

1

The bar is open every day from 4 pm to 11 pm.

2

The restroom is spotlessly clean.

3

The menu has a nice variety without being overwhelming.

24
Ricky G's image 1

Bar shines with friendly bartenders and a clean, remodeled space. Patio offers a beautiful setting and free pool table adds casual fun. Music keeps atmosphere chill and lively with a lit dart board for extra entertainment.

Service stays consistently amazing with friendly bartenders like Mary. The bar is clean and recently remodeled, offering a nice local vibe and free food delivery from nearby spots.

People are saying

"The bartender Esther makes great drinks and creates a comfortable vibe."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and keep the vibe great."

"It's a chill spot with a nice patio."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Loteria night is hosted regularly, providing a fun way to interact with others.

3

Food delivery is available from Mullens, the bar up the street.

25
Green Light Korean Pub & Karaoke rooms image 1

Private karaoke rooms provide spacious intimacy and a welcoming vibe perfect for groups up to eight. Enjoy authentic Korean food and a wide soju selection alongside amazing service. Watch your step on multiple levels while soaking in the fun atmosphere.

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

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 food and drinks at this bar were top-notch."

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.

26
Queen Mary image 1

Ship-themed bar offers a wrap-around bar with original woodwork, creating a warm atmosphere. Dim lighting and candle-lit tables add intimacy while house music energizes the space. Classic cocktails shine in this lighthouse tavern vibe.

Feels like a lighthouse tavern with a beautiful, warm, and inviting atmosphere. Features wrap-around bar seating that lets you sit on the bartender’s side.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails here were creative and tasted great."

"The happy hour oysters and shrimp cocktail were delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour is on Sundays from 3-7pm and Mondays from 5-7pm, while supplies last.

2

Raw East Coast oysters are $12 a dozen during happy hour.

3

Oysters on the half shell cost $3 each with a dozen minimum order.

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