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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Chicago's best

Whiskey bars

A bar that takes its whiskey selection seriously without the pretension of a stuffy tasting room.

Based on 518 Opinions
+515
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Updated May 2026
01
Bernard’s image 1
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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.

Cozy cocktail lounge with speakeasy vibes and refined atmosphere. Drinks show creativity and precision, served with attentive, personalized service.

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

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"It's a cozy little bar with speakeasy vibes."

"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.

02
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.

Whiskey selection stands out as exceptional and extensive. Two bars in one spot offer a cozy dive bar vibe with authentic, gritty energy.

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.

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.

03
Tuman's Tap and Grill image 1

Bar and grill with tin ceiling and deep wood bar offers a relaxed, cozy atmosphere and a corner bar vibe. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly and quiet, providing a calm spot away from busy streets. Crowd enjoys excellent burgers, Amish chicken, and a variety of craft beers and cocktails.

Sport bar atmosphere creates a lively setting. Food goes beyond typical bar fare with exceptional quality and above-average dishes. It feels like a local Cheers with a strong neighborhood vibe.

Selection includes Pappy 10, 12, and 23-year whiskeys and a variety of Irish whiskeys. Whiskey happy hour features Buffalo Trace rare breeds on Fridays and Sundays.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is amazing and way above expectations."

"I loved their extensive draft list of beers."

"They had a great selection of whiskeys, including Pappy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is on Fridays and Sundays featuring Buffalo Trace rare breeds.

2

Oktoberfest menu includes German cuisine and extra large beers.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

04
Dram Shop image 1

Cozy dive bar with dim lighting, classic jukebox playing Steely Dan and Beastie Boys, and disco balls on the ceiling. Atmosphere stays laid-back and easygoing, attracting a crowd that feels like family. Offers over 100 whiskeys and accepts only cash, creating a no-frills, low-key vibe.

Old-school vibe fills the tavern with dim lighting and a jukebox spinning Steely Dan to Beastie Boys. Over 100 whiskeys line the shelves while Brad behind the bar remembers names, cracks jokes, and keeps drinks flowing.

Over 100 whiskeys fill the bar, offering a huge selection with lighter options included. Whiskey pours run around $7.50 to $8, making it easy to sample while chatting with the bartender or watching a game.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to watch live sports and chat with the friendly bartender."

"They have a huge whiskey selection, over 100 options."

"The bar has a huge whiskey selection."

Good to know

1

The bar accepts only cash.

2

You can bring in your own food.

3

The bar has over 100 whiskeys available.

05
Tsukiji Sushi Sake Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant blends Japanese decor with Latin music, creating a unique fusion atmosphere. Warm, inviting vibe features comfortable patio seating with gorgeous landscaping. Energy stays friendly and lively, enhanced by a reggaeton playlist and candlelit tables.

The bar offers a skilled team crafting excellent drinks alongside the kitchen's food. The atmosphere supports a sake-focused experience that complements the menu well.

Whiskey sours here come in unique flavors like Tamarindo, Passionfruit, and Jamaica. These drinks offer refreshing twists on the classic cocktail with bold, fruity notes.

People are saying

"The owners are so sweet and made me feel at home with their kindness."

"You have to try the whiskey sours; the flavors are amazing!"

"The margaritas at the bar were next-level and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM daily, offering great drink deals.

2

Halal chicken and beef options are available on the menu.

3

Free parking is available four blocks away from the restaurant.

06
Wolf Point Distilling image 1

Industrial space with exposed brick and timber creates a laid-back, historic vibe. Comfortable tasting room offers craft spirits and cocktails distilled on site. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, suitable for casual visits or small gatherings.

Casual, industrial space hosts a small bar with a limited cocktail menu. Drinks include amazing cocktail creations served with stellar service.

Whiskey here offers an excellent flight with a variety of options. Many choose to bring some whiskey home after tasting.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be creative and delicious."

"The bar has amazing cocktail creations."

"I need to go back for the delicious whiskey cocktails."

Good to know

1

Parking, biking, or CTA are all easy to access.

2

Liz gives an informative tour about the distillery’s ties to Chicago and their spirits.

3

The samples offered during the tour are exceptional.

07
The Franklin Room image 1
New American restaurant

Underground space with rich fabrics, leathers, and carved woodwork creates a high-end speakeasy atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and intimate, with music at a level that allows easy conversation. A specialty whiskey selection and unique cocktails attract those seeking a refined drinking experience.

Offers a perfect blend of elevated tavern fare and handcrafted cocktails. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming atmosphere without intrusion.

An extensive whiskey list offers a wide range of choices with notable breadth and depth. Bartenders share rare bottles of whiskey and mezcal, adding a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

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

"The food here is thoughtfully executed and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

08
KOVAL Store image 1
Distillery

Spacious distillery with a large, comfortable bar and lounge suitable for groups and kids. Bright lighting creates a midday coffee shop vibe rather than a traditional bar atmosphere. Offers whiskey tastings, a fun magic show, and a detailed bourbon-making tour with views of processing equipment.

Spacious and comfortable, the bar and cocktail area suits groups well. Service requires ordering at the bar and waiting at a table for drinks.

American single malt whiskey stands out with its fantastic and unique profile compared to Scotch. Expert advice is available even for those new to whiskey, making the selection feel like the real thing.

People are saying

"I thought the whiskey here was amazing, truly the real thing."

"Their cocktails are delicious and fun, especially the ones made with their own alcohol."

"I enjoyed the tour and tasting; it was interesting and yummy."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking alongside the building.

2

The premises are clean and well-maintained.

3

The tour includes a brief explanation of the bourbon-making process.

09
Fado Irish Pub image 1

Two-floor pub with old wooden ambiance and outdoor patio offers lively and relaxed areas. Live music and multiple TVs create an energetic vibe, especially during soccer games. Friendly crowd gathers around a rustic bar and dedicated fan corners, blending authentic Irish feel with sports enthusiasm.

Irish bar offers a wonderful atmosphere with super friendly staff. It features English football on TV and hosts Wednesday trivia nights.

Good selection of Irish whiskey stands out here. The whiskey sour ranks highly, though some mixed drinks like Jameson and ginger beer lack strong whiskey flavor. Pricing on the drinks menu can be unclear compared to the bill.

People are saying

"The pub staff here are super friendly and helpful."

"The bar area is nice for hanging out and the sliders were a favorite."

"I thought the whiskey sour was the best in the city."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Trivia nights occur every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

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

10
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro image 1

Large bar with warm wood decor and a cozy fireplace creates a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of Ireland. Live traditional Irish music plays most nights, adding to the friendly, family-run vibe. The space balances an upscale feel with a family-friendly environment.

Live music and many TVs show futbol and other sports. The bar has an upscale feel with Irish-themed decorations and a cozy woodwork design that creates a warm atmosphere.

An extensive Irish whiskey list stands out here, with a dedicated whiskey room on the first floor selling bottles. Some drinks like the Irish coffee may vary in quality depending on the whiskey used.

People are saying

"This pub has such a cozy and friendly atmosphere."

"The bar's warm wood decor creates a cozy atmosphere."

"They have an incredible whiskey list."

Good to know

1

The storytelling event occurs on the second Thursday of each month.

2

Live Irish music sessions are held on Wednesdays and Sundays.

3

The Sunday trad session runs from 1 to 3 pm.

11
MIKAMI IZAKAYA & RAMEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant combines industrial-chic design with elegant touches for an upscale look and vibrant, casual vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and spacious, fitting for romantic dates or relaxed chats. Full bar offers Japanese beer on tap and notable cocktails alongside rare ramen varieties.

The bar offers an impressive whiskey and scotch selection alongside a variety of sake. Service at the bar stays flawless and attentive, even when busy, making it easy to enjoy drinks paired with food.

An impressive whiskey and scotch selection stands out at the bar. The whisky eyeball drink resembles a whisky mule, and Japanese whiskey fits the full experience here.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is flavorful and comforting."

"I loved pairing the delicious starters with a beer at the bar."

"The whiskey and scotch selection here is very impressive."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $21.95, including a side, main dish, and drink.

2

Happy hour features discounted cocktails and appetizers, making it a great time to visit.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes beyond ramen, like gyudon.

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