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Cocktail bars for dates in Chicago

A low-lit corner and a shared round of drinks provide the right backdrop for a conversation that lasts all night.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Love Street image 1
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Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar with cozy, intimate atmosphere and dark candlelit tables creates a romantic, neighborhood vibe. Music stays at a comfortable volume, supporting easy conversation. Cocktails are excellent and varied, with bartenders open to suggestions.

Cozy and cool spot with a great selection of signature cocktails. Staff are wonderful and drinks show creative flair, blending a cocktail bar vibe with a neighborhood hangout feel.

Chill ambiance sets the tone for a romantic date or casual meet-up. Excellent cocktails complement the vibe, making it ideal for both weekday and weekend outings.

People are saying

"You have to try the cocktails; they're creative and have wonderful flavors."

"It's an awesome date spot with a chill ambiance and excellent cocktails."

"The bartenders here are super friendly and know their cocktails."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating fills up quickly by 7 PM.

2

Cocktails are priced at $16 each as of August 2025.

3

Expect a lively crowd on weekends, especially during late-night hours.

02
Ed & Jean's Tavern image 1

Three rooms offer distinct vibes with eclectic art and concert posters creating an artsy, cozy atmosphere. Jazz music and vintage cartoons play softly, enhancing a warm, unpretentious setting. Seating ranges from bar stools to comfy couches, supporting both groups and intimate evenings.

Offers a bespoke cocktail experience with a super eclectic vibe. Functions as a local neighborhood wine and cocktail bar with a unique setting.

NoLA-inspired cocktails and a friendly bartender create a welcoming vibe. Complimentary Cheez-Its and ample seating make it easy to relax on a date night.

People are saying

"The antique decor and glassware make for a warm canvas for their cocktails."

"The cocktails and wine menu here are impressive for Date Spots."

"The bartender was super friendly and made a great non-alcoholic cocktail."

Good to know

1

Ed & Jean's Tavern does not serve wine, focusing instead on cocktails and beer.

2

Prices at Ed & Jean's Tavern are average compared to other local bars.

3

Champagne tastings are offered on select nights for a set price.

03
Bernard’s image 1
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.

Located on the second floor of a luxury hotel, this cocktail bar offers a quaint and upscale atmosphere.

Quiet atmosphere creates a perfect ambiance for dates. The spot offers a speakeasy vibe that suits intimate evenings well. Staff consistently check on reservations for couples.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"It's a great spot for a date because it's not too loud."

"It's a quiet, dimly lit cocktail bar with an intimate atmosphere."

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.

04
Moonflower image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with dimly lit speakeasy vibe and dance floor featuring disco ball and neon lights creates a warm, lively atmosphere. Two distinct rooms separate music and dancing from intimate drink tables, while a downstairs bar offers a change in vibe. Frequent live music and outdoor seating add variety to the experience.

Unique cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere define this cocktail bar. It offers reasonably priced drinks and a small menu with tasty food, plus non-alcoholic options for those who don't drink.

Intimate setting suits deep conversations and relaxed meals. Servers handle adjustments smoothly, even when guests are in a rush. The chicken sandwich stands out as a favored dish for date nights.

People are saying

"The food here was always incredible."

"The food and cocktail menu here is eclectic and carefully planned."

"It's a fun, comfortable spot for a great date."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great drink deals.

2

Moonflower hosts live music events on weekends.

3

Brunch drinks are charged separately from food.

05
King of Cups image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with medieval-themed decor and a dark, cozy ambiance featuring candles and wall art. Offers tarot card readings in a back room and serves impressive espresso martinis on tap. Space feels intimate with clever medieval pop art on TVs and crowns as part of the aesthetic.

Offers a sexy and sophisticated vibe with a high class feel. Serves as a fun and unique spot for cocktails.

Dim lighting creates a romantic atmosphere ideal for date nights. The setting feels intimate and cozy, making it a nice spot to enjoy time together.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and talented."

"The cocktail bar has a super sexy, sophisticated vibe."

"The cocktails here are great for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with drinks starting at $4.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially from Thursday to Saturday.

3

Tarot readings cost $15 and are available in a hallway at the back.

06
Queen Mary image 1

Ship-themed bar with original woodwork and a wrap-around bar seating creates a cozy, warm atmosphere with dim lighting and private booths. House music energizes the space while candle-lit tables add intimacy. Patrons come for classic cocktails and a unique, historic vibe.

Cozy atmosphere with a classic-style cocktail menu. Focuses on well-crafted drinks in a relaxed setting.

Evenings offer a cute date spot with a relaxed vibe. It suits reconnecting with friends or meeting new people in a casual setting.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are delicious and savory."

"The cocktails here are really good."

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.

07
Buttercup image 1

Small, intimate space shifts from cozy daytime cafe to swanky speakeasy bar with soft lighting and curated 1940s/50s decor. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, ideal for quiet dates or after-work drinks. Music complements the vibe, creating a relaxed yet stylish setting.

Turns into a cocktail bar after 4pm, shifting from a half coffee shop setup. Offers a clear cocktail bar experience in the evenings.

Soft lighting creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for date nights. The spot offers custom cocktails like make-your-own grattachecca and classic old fashioneds, perfect for evening drinks.

People are saying

"The cafe's specialty coffees are unique and fantastic."

"I adored this place; it's an excellent cocktail bar."

"The truffle pizzetta here has an incredibly rich flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with a great menu of drinks and appetizers.

2

Buttercup transforms into a cocktail bar after 4pm.

3

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

08
Lemon image 1

Bar combines live music with an upscale cocktail lounge vibe in a cozy, low-light setting. Space includes multiple seating areas and a patio, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Music volume balances well for both listening and conversation.

Drinks here offer high quality and feel both elevated and unpretentious. This cocktail bar stands out as a fantastic neighborhood spot that competes with top bars in the city.

Smiles greet couples right away, setting a warm tone for a romantic date night. Unique drinks like the Viva Piñata mix smoked pineapple brandy and bourbon for a memorable experience.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are thoughtful, creative, and perfectly balanced."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and wonderfully layered."

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.

09
Nine Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a hidden entrance and vaporwave aesthetic creates a unique, intimate setting. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, driven by a live DJ booth and upbeat music. Comfortable seating invites guests to relax while enjoying creative, Asian-inspired cocktails.

Cozy and trendy, this cocktail bar offers a menu filled with unique and creative drinks. It holds the distinction of being Chinatown's first cocktail bar.

Speakeasy vibe creates a cozy, intimate setting ideal for dates. Comfortable couches and good music set a relaxed mood, while great drinks add to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails were amazing and unique."

"The cocktails here are unique, balanced, and delicious."

"The cocktails here are different and cool."

Good to know

1

Getting there early is necessary to grab a seat at Nine Bar.

2

Parking at Chinatown Parking costs $2 for nearby businesses that validate.

3

Nine Bar does not validate parking.

10
Dearly Beloved image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar showcases edgy and classy decor with amazing sculptures behind the bar, creating a warm, inviting ambiance. Lounge and bar seating offer intimate and Instagram-worthy spaces enhanced by live jazz and DJ sets. Signature craft cocktails and unique dishes complement the visually stunning, chic atmosphere.

Visually stunning with interior settings that transport you to different environments, this cocktail bar stands out in the scene. It offers a unique experience that ranks it among the top cocktail bars in the city.

Offers privacy and a setting that impresses for date nights. Works well for couples looking for a great date night experience or a spot to celebrate special occasions.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing, thanks to Genesis's great recommendations."

"Our server Genesis made our Date Spots experience so friendly and comfortable."

"The cocktails here are creative works of art with innovative ingredients."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM Monday through Friday, offering half off all specialties.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters and $10 martinis during happy hour every day.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

11
Sparrow image 1
Cocktail bar

Tiny cocktail bar with low lighting and art-deco charm creates an inviting, intimate space. Background Latin music sets a chill atmosphere suited for quiet conversation. Skilled bartenders craft high-quality cocktails with care, especially rum-based drinks.

A tiny, intimate spot with low lighting offers a huge variety of drinks. The vibe feels elegant and tucked away, making it a standout cocktail bar in the area.

Warm, welcoming, and beautifully curated space sets a relaxed tone for date nights. Cocktails like the La Floridita come out smooth and well-crafted, matching the laid back vibes.

People are saying

"The cocktails were amazing, crafted with intention."

"The cocktails here are thoughtfully crafted and delicious."

"I loved the fun, delicious cocktails here."

Good to know

1

On Monday nights, they pick one expensive rum to pour at half price.

2

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

3

Expect a 10-15 minute wait time for a table during peak hours.

12
The Dandy Crown image 1

Huge patio with fire pits and live music creates a lively outdoor space. Seasonal holiday-themed pop-ups and decorations add immersive, festive vibes. Loud music fills the air, making it energetic and social.

Feels like a homey spot to gather with friends. Service can slow down when it's packed, but that is common here.

A spot with a fun vibe suits dates well, especially first dates or casual nights out. It works for both intimate evenings and group gatherings.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here is beautiful and cozy with a fireplace."

"The Date Spots here are professionally and warmly coordinated."

"This cocktail bar feels cozy and homey, like gathering with friends."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 drafts on Fridays from 4-7pm.

2

Live music occurs every Sunday, featuring DJ Gloria on 'Soulful Sunday.'

3

The venue hosts special pop-up events for Halloween and Christmas.

13
The Alderman image 1
Cocktail bar

Speakeasy-style bar with dimly lit chandeliers and a cozy, intimate space for about a dozen people. Atmosphere stays low-key and elegant with a mix of R&B and soul music, creating a chill vibe suited for conversation. Craft cocktails stand out as the main focus, with a secret entrance adding to the exclusive feel.

Craft cocktails take center stage with top-notch mixology and a serious focus on quality. The bar offers a fantastic selection that stands out in the city.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"The intimate cocktails here are unique, adventurous, and perfectly balanced."

"The drinks here are creative, delicious, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly suggested because it’s a small spot.

2

You get a 1.5-hour slot for reservations.

3

There is no food available, only cocktails.

14
Scofflaw image 1

Bar blends speakeasy vibe with cozy seating and moody lighting. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, with privacy from spaced seating and fireplaces. Outdoor patio with heaters adds a relaxed option.

Offers a perfect blend of pub and cocktail bar vibes with a solid menu including burger and fries. Cocktail options are good but not as extensive as most cocktail bars.

Cozy ambiance suits intimate meetups and cocktail dates. Cinnamon monkey bread offers a sweet finish to dinner dates.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and strong."

"It's a great spot for a date night or grown-up dinner."

"I found it to be an amazing cocktail bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with reasonably priced cocktails.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

3

Food service starts at 5pm; no food can be ordered before then.

15
Wang's image 1

Cozy cocktail lounge with dark, atmospheric ambiance and vibrant, lively vibe. Small space fills with a stylish crowd enjoying instrumental house music and unique, fun cocktails. Decor blends vintage China kitsch with an upscale dive bar feel.

Offers table service with interesting decor that stands out. Known for a cool vibe and solid cocktail options.

Low lighting and noticeable noise levels shape the atmosphere, making it suitable for a date but potentially challenging for a first date.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"This cocktail bar has a really chic vibe with interesting decor."

"The drinks here are creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating at Wang's, so arrive early.

2

Expect to wait during peak hours as it's a popular spot.

3

Wang's does not accept reservations, so plan accordingly.

16
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.

Offers a solid menu of cocktails with options in both weaker and stronger strengths. The bar has a romantic vibe and serves as a local spot for events.

A cute spot with a versatile vibe suits dates well. Drinks like the honeydew crusher and piña colada add to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are amazing, ranging from light to heavy."

"It's a cute spot with a romantic atmosphere, perfect for a date."

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.

17
The Victor Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Long, narrow cocktail bar with dim lighting and brick walls creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere suited for small groups of two to three. Music volume varies, sometimes loud, affecting conversation. Seating is limited to side-by-side stools and banquettes, making larger groups uncomfortable.

Cozy and intimate setting creates a welcoming vibe for a night out. Cocktails come at reasonable prices with great service enhancing the experience.

Friendly bartenders help pick cocktails and swap drinks if needed. The bar offers relaxed vibes and creative cocktails like Mai Tai and Thunder Paradise, making it a solid spot for a date night.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are crafted perfectly and always tasty."

"The cocktails here are creative, moody, and romantic."

"The craft cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Cocktails are priced at $16 each, with unique and creative recipes.

3

The bar serves drinks only and does not offer food.

18
After Chicago image 1

Luxurious space with glowing circular bar and plush velvet seating creates a moody lounge atmosphere. Live music adds intimate, vibrant energy while acoustics keep conversations private. Drinks and food offer a unique, crafted experience with standout cocktails and dishes.

Beautiful and intimate setting creates a perfect vibe for a date or night out. The bar offers unique spirits and an elevated experience connected to a two Michelin star restaurant.

A beautiful and intimate cocktail bar/lounge creates a perfect setting for a date night. Exceptional meals and attentive service make it ideal for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, thoughtfully prepared, and creative."

"Bar seating lets you watch the skilled bartenders craft amazing drinks."

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and visually stunning."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right outside the venue for easy access.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 pm on Fridays with special drink promotions.

3

Live music occurs every Wednesday, adding to the atmosphere.

19
Remedy image 1

Bar features retro video games and a large fish tank behind the counter, creating a unique and engaging setting. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxed with hip-hop music at a comfortable volume. Decor includes lush greenery and skylights, adding to a beautiful and inviting space.

Craft cocktails come with a low-key vibe and a cozy atmosphere. The bar offers a chill setting with good energy.

Strikes a balance between casual and elevated for a date night. Drinks can be hit or miss, with some tasting off.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are artists who welcome you with warmth and magic."

"It's a great cocktail bar with good vibes."

"It's a great date spot, striking a perfect balance."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with half off all drinks.

2

Tuesday nights feature $8 cocktails during happy hour.

3

The bar closes at 4am, perfect for late-night outings.

20
Revolver image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with speakeasy vibes and a gorgeous interior offers an intimate patio between buildings. Energetic atmosphere features live DJs playing jazz and fun music. Drinks include expertly crafted cocktails like old fashioneds and signature gin mixes.

An intimate setting defines this cocktail bar, creating a close and personal vibe. It stands out as a memorable spot for cocktail lovers seeking something new.

Cocktails like the old fashioned stand out here, crafted with care. The spot suits weekday date nights and small group gatherings with a cozy vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so welcoming and make amazing drinks."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The cocktail bar has a classy, dark vibe and feels intimate."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00 to 6:30 PM with $6 drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

3

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill.

21
Best Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with space-themed decor and beautiful lighting creates a relaxed, chill atmosphere. Music plays well, adding to the funky and fun vibe. The place draws a low-key crowd enjoying artful cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super talented and make amazing cocktails."

"The atmosphere here is so chill and has great vibes."

"This cocktail bar has a relaxed, chill vibe with mood lighting."

Good to know

1

The bar adds a 3.5% surcharge to all checks before tax.

2

A 20% tip is automatically included in the bill for service.

3

Happy hour offers $4 off cocktails priced at $16.

22
The Getaway image 1

Bar offers cozy atmosphere with dim lighting and a vintage speakeasy vibe. Seating includes a front area and back lounge with sofas and fireplace, creating a comfortable space for mingling. Cocktails are a highlight, featuring creative and well-crafted drinks alongside a relaxed, inviting energy.

Offers a cozy neighborhood vibe with a cute setting. Serves a solid selection of cocktails in a small, inviting space.

Great spot for date nights with a relaxed vibe. The old fashioned cocktail stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are super creative and beautifully made."

"It's a great little cocktail bar, a nice addition to the neighborhood."

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

The Getaway hosts a knitting night every Tuesday in the back lounge.

23
Spilt Milk image 1
Cocktail bar

Narrow, unpretentious cocktail bar with a moody atmosphere and bustling patio out back. Music stays bumpin', creating a lively yet balanced vibe that draws a fun crowd. Unique cocktails and a photo booth add distinctive touches to the experience.

Low lighting and comfy seating create a cozy vibe. Two bartenders handle a crowd of nearly 100 on busy nights, keeping the cocktail service smooth.

Offers a relaxed spot for grabbing a drink with friends or on a date. The chubby smash burger with bacon jam, fried onion strings, cherry peppers, and American cheese stands out as a flavorful choice.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the smash burger, is amazing."

"The smash burgers here are delicious, especially The Chubby Smash."

"The bartenders at this cocktail bar are so nice and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half off drafts and a $10 weekly cocktail.

2

Family Dinner Monday features meals for only $20.

3

The patio is available during happy hour, but it can get packed.

24
Valedor image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail lounge blends Japanese and Mexican fusion with a luxe, spacious design and captivating decor. Music features a live DJ that sets a chill, vibey atmosphere, though it can be loud. Small bites and creative cocktails complement the stylish, swanky vibe.

Inventive cocktails blend Japanese and Mexican flavors in a vibey setting. Happy hour offers excellent value alongside delicious food that complements the drinks.

Offers a cozy atmosphere suited for a date night or meeting friends. Serves as a nice spot for going out with someone special or a small group.

People are saying

"The cocktails at Happy Hour are amazing and there's a huge variety."

"It's a great spot for a nice date night."

"I loved their inventive and well-balanced cocktails."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the place is not very big.

2

Valedor offers a happy hour from 5 to 7 PM every day, including weekends.

3

Valedor advertises rotating complimentary tapas during happy hour with cocktail orders.

25
Arbella image 1
Cocktail bar

Large space divides into distinct atmospheres with comfortable booths and a lively club room. Music features a DJ-driven sound system playing chill, high-energy tunes that shape a fun, unpretentious vibe. Patrons include stylish young crowds, but the atmosphere welcomes all ages for drinks and conversation.

Offers a great vibe with good music for a night cap. Known as a top cocktail spot in the city.

Gorgeous atmosphere sets the tone for an intimate date night. Staff offer a complimentary glass of Champagne and a traveling old fashioned menu features multiple cocktail varieties to try.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and creatively made."

"The creative cocktails here are amazing for a date spot."

"The cocktails here are exceptional, crafted with precision and creativity."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 PM Monday to Saturday with limited menu options.

3

Arbella turns into a club starting around 10 PM from Thursday to Saturday.

26
Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago image 1

Cozy, dark basement setting blends 70s funk and tiki bar vibes with a hidden, tucked-away layout. Live jazz and DJ sets create an energetic yet civilized atmosphere where people chat and relax. Seating offers ample lounging space near bars that face both street and interior areas.

Cozy, moody basement vibes set the tone with unique decor. Drinks come with an elegant, intimate feel.

Offers a chill vibe ideal for a relaxed date night or hanging out with friends. Suitable for intimate celebrations and casual gatherings with friends or family.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and delightfully complex."

"It's a cozy, moody cocktail bar with unique decor."

"It's a good spot for a chill date night with a nice vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $4 off cocktails, but check for specific times.

2

The bar closes an hour earlier than usual on some nights.

3

Parking can be challenging in front of the bar.

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