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Top picks in Chicago

Beer spots

A cold beer is the only way to settle into the rhythm of a long night out.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Pilot Project Brewing - Wrigleyville image 1
Pilot Project Brewing - Wrigleyville image 2
Pilot Project Brewing - Wrigleyville image 3
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Three-story brewpub offers spacious patio, cozy basement lounge, and rooftop bar with a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a heated tent, creating a comfortable space for gatherings. The vibe suits pre- and post-game crowds with a mix of casual and swanky areas.

A basement cocktail lounge offers a cozy, dungeon-like vibe with unique cocktails. Multiple levels include a rooftop and large patio, making it a solid spot for pre and post-game gatherings.

A wide array of interesting and delightful beers fills the menu, with many options to sample. The beer selection is excellent and pairs well with a variety of appetizers, including vegetarian choices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and offers great vegetarian options."

"The Devious Lounge downstairs has such a great vibe for nightlife."

"The beer selection here is excellent and offers plenty of great options."

Good to know

1

The Devious Lounge is only a two-minute walk to Wrigley Field.

2

They offer a variety of great beer options and plenty of appetizers.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet.

02
Cary's Lounge image 1

Neighborhood pub with eclectic decor and a laid-back vibe offers live Americana music and a well-maintained pool table. Outdoor patio provides a relaxed space often visited by a friendly cat. Atmosphere stays friendly and welcoming, attracting open-minded locals who enjoy good humor and art.

Cozy, laid-back vibe with a small outdoor patio and an upstairs art gallery. Service stays exceptional, and the spot hosts fun events and entertainment.

A broad selection of beers on tap and in bottles includes 16 taps and ciders. Rotating options keep the beer selection fresh, paired with strong cocktails and some wines on tap.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar where you can hang out and meet interesting people."

"The nightlife here is great; the staff are super welcoming."

"I loved the great tap beer selection."

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.

03
The Albion Manor image 1
English restaurant

English pub-style space combines wood paneling, snugs, and velvet lounges for a mix of casual and sophisticated vibes. Warm lighting and personable staff create a comfortable atmosphere where conversation flows easily. Multiple TVs show major European soccer leagues, making it a popular spot for sports fans.

Upstairs offers an old school English lounge vibe with comfy couches and a knowledgeable bar staff. The space feels cozy and intimate, perfect for date nights or small gatherings.

A wide selection of traditional English ales and other beers stands out here. The patio with beer hugs umbrellas offers a nice spot to enjoy a cold one in the sun.

People are saying

"The bar's cocktails are creatively made and amazing."

"The upstairs lounge offers a cozy, intimate vibe for nightlife."

"They have a great selection of English ales."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Trivia night occurs every Sunday at 7pm with a competitive atmosphere.

3

The burlesque shows are held on Saturday nights with a lively crowd.

04
The Welcome Back Lounge image 1

Retro garage decor and 1950s wallpaper set a unique tone, complemented by a spacious back patio with an open lounge vibe. Energetic music, often with a DJ on weekends, creates a lively atmosphere that can get loud. The place suits larger groups and hosts parties well, offering a functional bingo board as a distinctive feature.

A back open patio lounge offers a nice spot during summer. The place serves great drinks and even better bar bites, with a team providing excellent service.

Offers a Welcome Back Lager that pairs with an entree for $30, including a choice of bottomless beer or other drinks. The lounge serves cocktails and beer in a casual setting.

People are saying

"The patio is super sick and really cute."

"The nightlife here makes your night unforgettable."

"I enjoyed the welcome back lager."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Sunday night at 9 PM, drawing a lively crowd.

2

Brunch costs around $30 for food and unlimited mimosas.

3

Bingo night takes place every Monday, adding to the weekly fun.

05
The Comedy Clubhouse image 1

Small, intimate comedy club with a cozy atmosphere and laid-back vibe. Sharp, funny improv performances create an upbeat energy that encourages interaction between comics and audience. Features a self-serve beer wall offering local draft brews and ciders, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Smaller size creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Comedy features a mix of veteran comedians and newcomers. The atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxed compared to bigger clubs.

A pay-by-the-ounce craft beer tap offers lots of variety, letting you taste new beers without commitment. A self-serve station provides easy access to beers and cider, while wine comes by the bottle at decent prices.

People are saying

"The improv here is sharp, funny, and incredibly entertaining."

"You can pour your own craft beer by the ounce here."

"The nightlife here is hilarious; the comedians always make me laugh."

Good to know

1

Tickets for shows are affordable, typically half the price of larger theaters.

2

The venue hosts three shows on Saturday nights starting at 6:30 pm.

3

Food and drinks are reasonably priced, with a pay-by-the-ounce craft beer tap.

06
Bar Sotto image 1

Hidden underground bar with soft red glow and jazzy atmosphere creates an intimate, cozy vibe. Space feels mysterious and character-rich, attracting an upbeat crowd for fun nights out or romantic dates. Creative cocktails and unique design details add to its distinct charm.

A basement lounge offers dark disco vibes with a romantic, rustic atmosphere. The space feels like a speakeasy with touches of European nightlife and serves craft cocktails, Italian beer, and wine.

Craft cocktails come with a curated selection of Italian beer and wine. The cocoa rich dry stout stands out among the cold beer options. A wide variety of wines exists but beer holds its own here.

People are saying

"The bar staff here feels like family and makes you feel right at home."

"The craft cocktails and shareable bites here are excellent."

"I found the Italian beer here delightful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and bites after work.

2

The bar features a rotating menu of small shareable plates and pasta.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy evenings, especially weekends.

07
United Polaris Lounge image 1

Spacious lounge with modern furnishings and classy atmosphere offers complimentary ร  la carte dining and generous shower and day bed facilities. Quiet and relaxing environment attracts long-haul business travelers seeking comfort and space. Large windows provide an excellent view enhancing the overall experience.

A stylish lounge with high-end amenities offers a relaxed nightlife vibe. Sleep rooms, showers, and a buffet with champagne create a comfortable, upscale atmosphere.

A good beer selection includes craft beers and a variety of other options. The lounge offers a huge selection of spirits and soft drinks alongside the beer.

People are saying

"The food options were solid and varied."

"The nightlife here has a great selection of drinks and food."

"I thought the beer selection here was great."

Good to know

1

The lounge is exclusively for long-haul business class passengers.

2

The lounge closes at 9 pm, even for late international flights.

3

At 4:00 PM on a Saturday, there were no open seats available.

08
Pour Decisions Chicago image 1

Live jazz music fills the space with top-tier performances while multiple large TVs broadcast sports loudly, creating a conflicted atmosphere. Upstairs offers a speakeasy vibe with a pool table, piano, and private party rooms featuring stylish decor and a full bar. The crowd enjoys specialty cocktails and highly praised wings, blending lively energy with casual comfort.

Upstairs features a lounge with a pool table, piano, and sexy mood lighting. The space offers an elegant bar and extensive club seating, suitable for private parties.

Beers come quickly and include a nice IPA and other standard options. The selection is good for watching games with wings and pretzels. None of the beers are brewed on site.

People are saying

"The bar staff here really make sure you're taken care of."

"It's a cool spot with many TVs and a well-lit bar."

"The upstairs lounge offers a clubby atmosphere with its own bar and pool table."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature $20 all-you-can-eat wings, a popular deal.

2

Thursdays offer an $8 burger with fries and $5 domestic drafts.

3

Trivia night happens every Wednesday, adding to the midweek fun.

09
Blue Chicago image 1
Live music bar

Small, vintage blues bar with an intimate, no-frills setup focused on live music. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, with close proximity to local talent performing on a narrow stage at the back. Venue stays lively until late, attracting an enthusiastic crowd and offering cash-only service with room to dance.

An intimate spot with a down and dirty blues vibe offers an authentic experience. The club has a hallowed atmosphere that captures the true spirit of blues nightlife.

Cold beers come with moderate prices between $6 and $10, including bottled options and non-alcoholic beers. The atmosphere pairs well with a live old school Chicago style blues band.

People are saying

"The live music here is phenomenal and top-notch."

"The live blues music here is amazing, truly the real deal."

"I enjoyed a great beer while listening to amazing blues music."

Good to know

1

Blue Chicago is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for drinks.

2

There is a $15 cover charge to enter Blue Chicago.

3

Live performances start at 9pm, with doors opening at 8pm.

10
Bottom Lounge image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with a speakeasy vibe and excellent sound quality. Space feels cozy but includes a pillar that blocks some views and no seating inside the music hall. Crowd energy is lively, with a fun bar atmosphere upstairs and re-entry allowed for fresh air.

Small size creates an intimate vibe with excellent sound quality and great stage views. The venue hosts live music shows and private events, offering disabled-friendly access.

A great beer selection includes craft beers on draft, cans, cider, and hard seltzer. Prices stay reasonable with options available both in the front restaurant and a small bar near the concert area.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"I found it to be an awesome music venue for nightlife."

"I loved the amazing beer selection here."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot in the free lot.

2

Bottom Lounge hosts weddings and private events in their upstairs space.

3

The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for disabled visitors.

11
Rainbo Club image 1

Classic dive bar with vintage interior and eclectic art on the walls creates a laid-back, authentic vibe. Lighting suits reading or laptop work, and a film photo booth adds a unique touch. Crowd tends to be chill and quiet, with cash-only transactions and inexpensive drinks.

A cash-only dive bar with a super cool vibe operates throughout the day and night. The spot keeps things simple and authentic for a laid-back nightlife experience.

Cold beer arrives quickly and stays cheap. Typical dive bar style includes pairing a beer with a shot.

People are saying

"It's a classic, authentic dive bar with an old school vibe."

"The drinks here are cheap and ice cold."

"You can get a beer and a shot at this dive bar."

Good to know

1

Rainbo Club only accepts cash payments.

2

Rainbo Club does not serve food, but they have chips if asked.

3

The crowd at Rainbo Club is mostly artists and locals.

12
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 bands play here, each with different music styles. The club features an awesome sound system and focuses on rock music.

People are saying

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

"The beer here is really cold and a good deal."

"The nightlife here has an awesome, intimate sound."

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.

13
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf facility offers top-notch simulators and luxury seating in a modern, upscale setting. Atmosphere stays chill and lively, with plenty of space and a welcoming vibe. Amenities include a full bar, numerous TVs, and social areas like a pool table and putting green.

Mellow atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxed night out. Easy-to-use app handles reservations and club storage. Clubs come in good condition with Callaways for women and expert recommendations add to the experience.

Cold beer comes with a great selection and cheap prices. Plenty of TVs make it easy to watch a game while enjoying a drink.

People are saying

"The golf staff here are genuinely fun and know how to treat you right."

"The staff here makes the nightlife feel so friendly and welcoming."

"You can get a great, cheap, ice cold beer here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm with great food and drink deals.

2

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

The all-you-can-eat wings cost $5 during happy hour.

14
Cobra Lounge image 1
Bar & grill

Small venue space holds about 150 people with an intimate atmosphere and live music that energizes the crowd. Bar includes a full selection and a patio area for outdoor breaks. Shows often feature energetic punk and metal bands with a cozy, no-seating setup ideal for intense concerts.

Live music happens in a small, cozy, and intimate setting with bathrooms right next to the stage. The venue offers a great bar and hosts great shows regularly.

German Kรถlsch won a silver medal in a world competition here. Beers pair well with the food. Bathrooms sit close to the stage, making it easy to step away while drinking.

People are saying

"They have good beers and great shows."

"I really enjoyed their really good burgers."

"The live music nightlife here is intimate and electric."

Good to know

1

The venue is ADA accessible.

2

Parking is easy, with plenty of street spots available.

3

There is monitored parking at Fulton Market Garage, about a 10-minute walk away.

15
Shamrock Club image 1

Old-school bar extends deep inside with a pool table, jukebox, and popcorn machine adding to the casual vibe. Loud, fun crowd creates a welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere where people relax and socialize. Outdoor patio offers a perfect spot for warm days, enhancing the laid-back energy.

A traditional sports and dive bar vibe dominates with a divey atmosphere and free popcorn at the bar. Service happens all at the bar, making it a straightforward spot to unwind after work or celebrate events like St Patrick's Day.

Reasonably priced beers arrive quickly, making it a solid spot for after work drinks. The vibe is casual, just a place to enjoy a couple of beers with mates downtown.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially with a cold pint."

"It's a chill spot to unwind with a friendly, welcoming vibe."

"I found the beer to be reasonably priced downtown."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect the bar to get crowded around 6-7 PM.

3

Pitchers are available for $13, making it a budget-friendly option.

16
The Comedy Bar image 1
Comedy club

Comedy club offers an intimate, cozy venue with a circular stage that brings performers close to the audience. The atmosphere feels electric and fun, encouraging interaction and laughter. Small round tables provide comfortable spacing, creating a relaxed setting for enjoying lively acts.

Comedy shows feature a great atmosphere with cold beers priced reasonably. A minimum spend supports the art, keeps the club running, and helps service workers.

Cold beers come with a nice selection and reasonable prices. They pair well with the food and the overall vibe of laughs and shows.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent and delicious."

"The nightlife here is hilarious; I was laughing most of the time."

"The beer here is good and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

There is a two-drink or food minimum at the venue.

2

The entrance is located at the back of the building.

3

Parking can be an issue near the venue.

17
Puttery image 1
Miniature golf course

Large, well-decorated space features a library-themed course and a rooftop area with notable views. Atmosphere combines jazz music with a fun, social vibe suited for couples and groups. Miniature golf includes a digital scoring system enhancing the experience.

Lounges and bars create a relaxed vibe. Clubs cater even to left-handed players.

The beer selection features local beers alongside cocktails. Some beers come cold, but others serve warm. Prices hover around $8 per beer with helpful recommendations available.

People are saying

"You'll have a fun time with the challenging mini golf courses."

"The vibe here is a fun night out with friends."

"I enjoyed the cold beers and great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or events.

2

The bar is wheelchair accessible, but the golf courses are not.

3

Expect upscale pricing for food and drinks at the venue.

18
Gale Street Inn Chicago image 1

Newly remodeled space combines Great Gatsby decor with a supper club vibe and a small stage for live jazz and ukulele performances. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with ample table spacing for comfortable conversation. Lively evenings feature phenomenal live music that enhances the classic old school Chicago environment.

The space has a classy supper-club vibe with a chic, remodeled interior that blends a luxury train dining car feel and a New Orleans jazz lounge atmosphere.

Cold beer comes with a good selection alongside cocktails and wine. The beer list offers solid choices even during quiet hours.

People are saying

"These ribs are the best in town, truly fall-off-the-bone perfection."

"The nightlife here feels like a classic supper club with live music."

"I ordered a few beers and cocktails alongside the ribs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the place fills up quickly.

2

Live jazz music happens on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

3

The free parking is convenient.

19
American Airlines Flagship Lounge image 1

Large lounge offers quiet atmosphere with comfortable seating and open bar featuring a make-your-own Bloody Mary station. Amenities include showers, conference rooms, and plentiful power outlets. Space feels clean and spacious despite occasional crowding.

A calm bubble amid airport chaos offers comfortable lounge chairs, work stations with power outlets, and a make-your-own Bloody Mary station. Showers and isolated restrooms add to the relaxing vibe, with plenty of space to sit or work.

An open bar offers plenty of quality beers alongside wine and champagne. Self-serve options let you pour from stand-up refrigerators stocked with a wide selection of craft beer.

People are saying

"The Day Lounge had tasty food and drinks of good quality."

"The drink options were good and the bar was stacked."

"I loved the selection of craft beers they served."

Good to know

1

Breakfast converts to lunch at 11am.

2

The lounge gets crowded between 2 pm and 6 pm.

3

Alcoholic drinks are not included in the lounge access fee.

20
Howl at the Moon Chicago image 1

Rocking piano bar with live music and high energy atmosphere. Crowded seating near the stage creates an intimate vibe while the buzzing sound level keeps the energy lively. Specialty drinks come with sweet, cutesy presentations and the food offers elevated bar fare.

Live music drives the energy with exceptional talent performing classics like Bohemian Rhapsody and recent hits such as Pink Pony Club. A piano duel adds a unique twist to the positive vibe throughout the club.

Good beer selection with reasonable prices and plenty of options complements the live music well. The beer quality matches the energy of the shows.

People are saying

"You'll have so much fun; the crowd is always energized."

"The beers here are good, and the live music is great."

"The live music nightlife here is fantastic, with talented musicians playing classics and hits."

Good to know

1

There is a $12 cover charge to enter the venue.

2

Happy hour offers the first two drinks for $2 each.

3

Dueling piano nights are popular and feature audience requests.

21
Signature Steak image 1
Restaurant

Upscale sports bar with modern black-and-white decor and large screen TVs creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Dim, private lounge offers a contrasting intimate vibe with great music. Signature cocktails and well-crafted drinks stand out amid close seating and energetic crowds.

Dim, private lounge with great music and a chic modern vibe blends with a Chicago Vintage chop house style.

Good quality beer pairs well with black pepper BBQ wings and a crispy chicken sandwich. Expect to spend around $40 for a couple of beers with food.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are thoughtful, indulgent, and expertly executed."

"The lounge's dim, private atmosphere had great music for nightlife."

"I thought the beer was good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

22
Metro image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with great acoustics and clear sightlines from every seat. The space features an ornate interior and a balcony that enhances the experience. It hosts a lively crowd enjoying punk, pop punk, and alternative bands with a well-functioning sound system.

A classic nightlife institution with two levels: the main club upstairs and Smartbar downstairs. Known as the longest private club in the USA, it offers a strong afterhours scene similar to the 9:30 Club in DC.

Good selection of domestic and craft beers with several IPAs on tap. Prices run around $11 per beer, which may feel expensive for Europeans but not for Americans. Old Style beer is not available.

People are saying

"It's a small and intimate venue for shows."

"This classic Chicago club is a cool venue for nightlife."

"I loved the beer here; it's a great venue."

Good to know

1

Metro is a cash-only venue, so bring cash for drinks and entry.

2

There are no ADA accommodations, making it difficult for those with disabilities.

3

The venue often oversells tickets, leading to overcrowding during events.

23
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.

The nightlife features a karaoke lounge with a focus on EDM hits and a crowd mainly in their 20s. An 18% automatic tip applies to all orders without clear signage.

Beer costs stay low, with prices around $5.50 and buckets of light beer for $60. An extra tip fee applies when ordering individual beers at the bar.

People are saying

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

"The nightlife here is great with DJs keeping the vibe lively."

"I found the beer deals here were the best."

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.

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