Historic building hosts a French bistro with European charm and elegant design. Live jazz music creates a relaxing atmosphere complemented by a skilled bar offering standout cocktails. The space feels cozy and stylish, attracting those seeking a refined dining experience.
Cocktails stand out for their delicious flavors and creative mixes. The melon sour and a dealer’s choice cocktail/mocktail crafted by Eric the bartender highlight the menu's variety and quality.
Offers top-notch French cuisine in an historic building with authentic French vibes in the Loop.
"The escargot here is outstanding and alone worth the visit."
"I thought the French onion soup rivaled the best I had in Paris."
"I found the cocktails to be exceptional and well prepared."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid being turned away.
Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Expect a $10 charge for each cheese on the charcuterie board.
Gastropub offers cozy atmosphere with heated outdoor patio open late into fall. Close seating creates an intimate vibe, complemented by extraordinary craft cocktails and a brilliant patio space. Music and warm lighting enhance the inviting energy throughout.
Craft cocktails stand out with house-made syrups and juices. Signature drinks like the enchanted forest and the mule show clear creativity and deliver great flavor.
Offers a quiet spot away from busy areas with a welcoming vibe for newcomers. Stands out as a low-key find on the North Side.
Good to know
The kitchen stays open late until around 1:00 or 1:30 a.m.
Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers on Sunday and Monday nights.
Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.
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.
Crafted cocktails cost around $11 and feature unique flavors like malört. The menu includes spritz options such as a notable cucumber spritz, all served in a relaxed atmosphere.
Cocktails stand out as the most delicious here, making it a true hidden gem. The spot often feels like it shouldn't be so hidden given its quality.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great drink deals.
Moonflower hosts live music events on weekends.
Brunch drinks are charged separately from food.
Modern steakhouse with sleek black decor and comfortable seating creates a friendly yet elegant atmosphere. The vibe balances casual and sophisticated, welcoming guests in casual clothes. Excellent margaritas and steaks complement the stylish setting.
Skilled mixologists craft cocktails that are both beautifully presented and well balanced. Drinks pair seamlessly with dishes, showing thoughtful bar program design.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $10 margaritas and unique appetizers.
Tacos are $10 for three during happy hour.
Reservations are recommended for the dueling pianos event on weekends.
Exposed brick walls and twinkling ceiling lights create a cozy, modern Irish pub atmosphere with a warm, inviting vibe. Live traditional Irish music and sports broadcasts add to the friendly, lively energy. The place stands out for its authentic drinks and excellent food with American twists.
Exceptional cocktails stand out here, offering a quality that surpasses many fancy spots. Drinks come with great flavor and complement the overall dining experience well.
Offers a quiet atmosphere away from busy spots and features unique menu items that stand out. Known for its cozy vibe, it feels like a tucked-away find in the city.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.
Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7:30pm with a lively atmosphere.
Live Irish music sessions occur on Thursdays, open to all who drop in.
Bright, open space with sleek, clean decor and upbeat DJ music creates a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. The restaurant fills quickly, offering a family-friendly vibe and welcoming pets. Drinks like margaritas and espresso martinis complement a menu featuring standout dishes such as mole and chilaquiles.
Variety includes ranch waters and watermelon margaritas in season. The mezcal hibiscus cocktail stands out as refreshing and flavorful even for non-mezcal fans.
Offers a quiet atmosphere and unique charm that stands out from typical spots. Feels like a true hidden gem with subtle appeal.
Good to know
Un Amor offers bottomless mimosas on the weekend.
They offer bottomless mimosas during 1.5 hours of seat time.
Happy hour specials include empanadas for $3.50 and margaritas for $8.
Former speakeasy with hidden entrance through a liquor store offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with dark, moody decor and live mariachi music. The space feels unpretentious and creative, attracting those who appreciate Mexican art and culture. Conversations can be lively, sometimes making it hard to hear servers, but the vibe remains welcoming and relaxed.
Cocktails here are strong and flavorful, with options like the Oaxacan cocktail featuring spices from Oaxaca. Brunch cocktails crafted with Santana offer unique and incredible tastes.
Offers a true hidden gem feel with a tucked-away vibe. Stands out as a great find in its neighborhood.
Good to know
Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.
Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.
Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.
Cozy space with Hollywood regency decor and mood lighting creates a speakeasy vibe. Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails, including standout Old Fashioneds and martinis. Atmosphere suits jazzy date nights and sophisticated dining with white tablecloths.
Cocktails here are bursting with fresh ingredients and come strong. The bartender crafts unique, lush drinks like excellent Old Fashioneds and helps pick great options.
An intimate spot with a quiet charm stands out as a hidden gem. Its cozy setting offers a unique, tucked-away dining experience.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.
The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.
Urban, modern space with Tulum-inspired decor and stunning interior architecture creates an authentic Mexican canteen vibe. Great music energizes the atmosphere, while seating ranges from stools at larger tables to intimate spots for two. The setting feels like a slice of Mexico City with a lively, welcoming energy.
Delicious cocktails stand out with a mix of flavors that complement the food well. Drinks come at a reasonable price, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
Elevated Mexican cuisine stands out as a hidden gem in the area. This spot offers a unique take on traditional dishes with a focus on quality and flavor.
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 6 pm.
$3 Taco Tuesdays offer great value for visitors.
Wednesday features a special margarita deal.
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.
Craft cocktails stand out with an impressive selection and high-end quality. The Bloody Mary and other drinks offer a refreshing and delicious experience.
Offers a quiet spot tucked away from busy areas. Known as a nice hidden gem in the neighborhood with a low-key vibe.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 5-7pm, but expect crowds during this time.
Reservations are recommended for events to ensure space availability.
The Hi-Lo allows outside food to be brought in.
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.
Cocktails here show a creative spin with options like a fruity fernet and an espresso martini with Parmesan. Signature drinks include the creamy, salty Reggiano and the gin-based Purple Monster, all crafted with a speakeasy vibe and a jazzy atmosphere.
Offers a true hidden gem vibe with a low profile that keeps it under the radar. The spot feels tucked away and not widely known, adding to its unique charm.
Good to know
Happy hour offers discounted drinks and bites after work.
The bar features a rotating menu of small shareable plates and pasta.
Reservations are recommended for busy evenings, especially weekends.
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.
Cocktails here are well-made and uniquely crafted with a clear passion for mixology. The setting offers a cool, relaxed vibe that complements the excellent drinks and speakeasy menu.
Small space with exclusive access creates a speakeasy vibe. Craft cocktails stand out in this hidden gem setting.
Good to know
Reservations are strongly suggested because it’s a small spot.
You get a 1.5-hour slot for reservations.
There is no food available, only cocktails.
Restaurant occupies an elegant second-floor space with amazing views of Michigan Avenue. Atmosphere feels funky and cool yet allows easy conversation without yelling. Offers masterfully made exotic cocktails and a lively bar with sports TVs.
Signature cocktails stand out with an old fashioned praised for its quality and a watermelon cocktail that suits hot days. Unique options like the truffle martini offer interesting and refreshing flavors alongside other mixed drinks.
Consistently good food and service make this spot a true hidden gem on Michigan Avenue. It stands out as a place worth discovering for those seeking quality without the usual crowd.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.
Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.
The restaurant has a dress code; business casual is preferred.
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.
Visually stunning cocktails come highly recommended here. Bartenders like Stephanie and Jose craft amazing drinks that impress many patrons.
Offers a quiet spot with unique sushi experiences tucked away from the usual crowds. Known for its intimate setting that feels like a secret find.
Good to know
Reservations are required due to limited seating.
Karaoke sessions are available during visits.
The omakase experience costs $65 for 12 pieces of sushi.
Two-room sushi restaurant combines speakeasy-style back lounge with a modern cocktail bar front, offering views into a working distillery. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and chill in the back to more vibrant and upbeat in the front. Known for dry-aged fish and an intimate omakase experience, it draws those seeking high-quality, uniquely flavored sushi.
Craft cocktails use spirits distilled on site, giving them a unique flavor. Happy hour features excellent cocktails alongside a solid selection of sake and other drinks.
A hidden gem sushi experience exists inside a distillery, blending unique flavors with an unexpected setting. The sushi stands out as a great find within this distinct environment.
Good to know
Happy hour offers discounted sake and rolls from 4-6pm on weekdays.
Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.
Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.
Rooftop restaurant offers stunning city views and a relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff. The space features beautiful ambiance suitable for quiet meals or lively happy hours. Cocktails and small plates complement the setting, creating a charming dining experience.
Cocktails feature bourbon blackberry and blackberry whiskey sangria styles like Running with the Bulls. Gin and vodka drinks come out impeccably crafted and refreshing with reasonable prices.
Located on the 16th floor, this spot offers beautiful views that stand out. It remains a hidden gem in the loop, often overlooked but worth finding.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 3:30 to 5:30pm on weekdays.
Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.
The restaurant is located on the 16th floor of the Hilton hotel.
Small, cozy space with dim lighting and tiled floor decor creates an intimate setting. Loud atmosphere with obnoxious music and shouting makes conversation difficult. The place fills quickly, attracting a lively crowd that values thin crust pizza and a casual vibe.
Cocktails stand out with delicious flavors and a mean mix. They pair well with appetizers and complement the overall experience.
Small and cozy interior creates a hidden gem vibe. The place feels intimate and tucked away from the usual spots.
Good to know
Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.
Expect long wait times without a reservation, especially on weekends.
The restaurant is BYOB, but there's a $20 corkage fee.
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.
Paradise Lost stands out as a clarified rum cocktail that many find delicious. The menu also features other notable drinks like Paper Dragon and San Junipero, all crafted with care and offering a unique experience.
A hidden gem tucked away beneath a well-known spot, offering some of the best cocktails in the city. It stands out as a cozy speakeasy with a low-key vibe.
Good to know
Getting there early is necessary to grab a seat at Nine Bar.
Parking at Chinatown Parking costs $2 for nearby businesses that validate.
Nine Bar does not validate parking.
Rooftop dining with a retractable roof offers a quaint and intimate setting complemented by large open windows that blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Atmosphere balances comfortable space and lively energy, though noise can rise during busy times. The setup supports group gatherings while maintaining a pleasant view and inviting vibe.
Cocktails stand out for their consistent quality and excellent taste. Each order delivers a reliably amazing mix.
Offers a quiet atmosphere away from crowds and unique dishes not found in typical spots.
Good to know
Peanut Park Trattoria offers a happy hour between 4-6pm with $3 off pizzas.
Brunch is served on weekends with a special menu.
Expect long wait times on holidays like Valentine's Day.
Old apothecary setting preserves historic charm with original features from a century ago. Atmosphere feels cozy and jazzy, blending eclectic warmth with a speakeasy vibe. Small space attracts those seeking an intimate spot for craft cocktails and quiet conversation.
Craft cocktails feature unique flavor combinations and creative mixes. The owner shares passion and inspiration behind each drink, making the experience personal and engaging.
Stepping inside feels like entering a hidden gem from the early 1900s. The place has a unique, tucked-away charm that stands out.
Good to know
Cocktails cost $15 each.
A Jazz Trio plays on Thursday nights.
The space is not large, so it is not suitable for large groups.
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.
Tiny bar with low lighting offers a huge variety of drinks including an extensive rum selection. Cocktails come with care and quality, plus solid non-alcoholic options.
Modest exterior hides a cozy and stylish interior with vintage charm that stands out as a hidden gem.
Good to know
On Monday nights, they pick one expensive rum to pour at half price.
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.
Expect a 10-15 minute wait time for a table during peak hours.
Space blends modern art and dining with Jackson Pollock-inspired decor and a gallery-like atmosphere. Music plays at a perfect volume to support conversation, creating a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Guests enjoy a cozy setting with tasteful rustic details that balance the artistic design.
Cocktails come with unique flavor profiles and artistic presentation. Daily happy hour offers $10 drinks, while regular cocktails cost $12, which is rare in the city.
Offers a quiet spot tucked away from the usual crowds. Feels like a true hidden gem with a low-key vibe.
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 5-6:30pm with $10 cocktails.
The restaurant recently transitioned to a new pizza and tavern menu on 9/23.
There is a 3.5% surcharge on all bills.
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.
Impeccably crafted cocktails blend classic foundations with modern artistry. The menu offers both inventive creations and expertly made classics, including a standout Malort cocktail.
Offers a quiet spot tucked away from busy areas. Known for its unassuming charm that surprises many.
Good to know
Reservations are suggested, but same-day tables are often available online.
Valet parking is available for guests visiting the bar.
Most cocktails range from $20 to $30 each.
Dark, narrow speakeasy with a long bar and intimate, cozy atmosphere filled with cultural art and decor. Vibe blends laid-back warmth with moments of loud energy, making it suitable for romantic dinners or fun nights out. Frequented by those seeking unique cocktails and authentic Mexican flavors in a hidden gem setting.
Creative and artfully crafted cocktails define the drink menu. The program stands out with homemade ingredients like their unique squirt, delivering consistently fantastic flavors.
Small and tucked away, this spot stands out as a hidden gem in the neighborhood. It offers a great little experience that feels special and not widely known yet.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.
Expect a wait of about 30 minutes for walk-ins during peak hours.
Dinner for two typically costs around $220, including drinks.
Small Mexican restaurant with authentic vibe and unique decor creates a chill atmosphere filled with Latino music and a dog-friendly patio. Tables are close together, making the space feel busy and lively. Cocktails like mezcal drinks stand out amid a fun, energetic setting.
Cocktails show creative mixology with a menu that stands out. Each drink, including the El Alisino, offers fresh flavors and attentive service.
Tucked away off Madison, this spot stands out as a hidden gem in the west loop. It offers a unique find that often goes unnoticed in the city.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm Monday through Friday with $1 oysters.
The happy hour oysters are now $2, up from $1 in the past.
Expect a 20% gratuity automatically added to your bill.
Rooftop bar offers unbeatable city skyline views with both indoor and outdoor lounges. Atmosphere stays peaceful and spacious, with a vibe suited for quiet evenings rather than loud crowds. Cocktails are well-crafted and flavorful, complementing the setting for dates or nightcaps.
Cocktails feature a great menu with options like the aviation cocktail. Drinks come with fantastic service and pair well with jazz shows.
A rooftop bar tucked away in Wicker Park offers a hidden gem vibe with a cozy atmosphere. It stands out as a favorite spot for those seeking a less obvious place to unwind.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended as the space fills quickly, especially on weekends.
The Up Room closes at midnight, but no new guests are allowed after 11pm.
Happy hour is a great time to visit on weeknights for discounted drinks.
Huge patio with live Mexican music creates a family-friendly atmosphere that feels cozy and relaxed. Open windows connect indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a sense of escape from the city. Fresh seafood dishes and tasty cocktails complement the vibrant, casual setting.
Cocktails come in a very good variety with options like Palomas that are tasty and refreshing. Drinks often arrive with condiments on the side.
Offers a quiet spot that feels undiscovered and easy to access. Holds a special charm that suggests it might become popular soon.
Good to know
There are two parking lots near the restaurant.
Parking space can be limited depending on how busy it gets.
The fish and shrimp tacos cost $10 each.
Steakhouse offers a dark intimate atmosphere with sophisticated, elegant vibe and beautiful decor. Live singer performances add to the swanky bar area ambiance. High-quality steaks and expertly crafted cocktails define the experience.
Cocktails stand out with their excellent quality and pair well with the food. The overall atmosphere complements the drink experience.
Offers a quiet spot with unique charm away from the usual crowds. Known for its under-the-radar appeal in the area.
Good to know
Expect a 15-20 minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.
Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; don't miss it.
The 'Girl Dinner' special on Sundays includes two martinis and caviar fries for $29.
Izakaya-style restaurant offers authentic Japanese decor with traditional seating and moody lighting. The atmosphere stays cozy and lively, featuring karaoke that energizes the space late into the night. Guests enjoy grilling at the table and a varied sake and cocktail selection.
Great cocktails feature fruity flavors like the Cherry Blossom and Hokota Slipper. Skilled bartenders craft amazing drinks with care and creativity.
A true hidden gem with a great neighborhood vibe that feels like a delightful hole in the wall.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 9pm.
Happy hour offers $7 drinks, but only for the first drink.
The restaurant is open until 2 AM, perfect for late-night dining.
Small, intimate space with sleek minimalist design and white tablecloths creates an elegant, calm ambiance. Seating is limited, making it cozy and personal, ideal for quiet conversations. The atmosphere balances understated elegance with a family-run feel, distinct from typical Chinese restaurants.
Cocktail menu offers a very full selection with reasonable prices. The Smoke Show cocktail stands out and is worth ordering twice.
Offers a quiet spot with friendly people and great food away from the usual crowds.
Good to know
The prix fixe menu is $39 for a four-course meal with several options.
Be aware of potential supplemental charges for some menu items on the prix fixe.
Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.