Bar combines speakeasy style with a macabre metal theme and horror decor. Atmosphere is dark and electrifying, with loud music and warm neighborhood energy. Large patio offers outdoor space for smoking and socializing.
Dark, pseudo-evil aesthetic sets a unique tone. It blends an old school dive bar vibe with a clean, quirky atmosphere that feels like a mix of a speakeasy and funeral parlor.
Unapologetically cool atmosphere with friendly clients and cool owners creates a spot that feels approachable yet distinct.
"The bar staff here is so friendly and wonderful."
"It's a classic dive bar with a fun atmosphere."
"It's a super cool spot with a dark, electrifying vibe."
Good to know
Electric Funeral hosts themed pop-up nights regularly.
Beer and shot specials are available, typically for $7.
The bar does not serve food, so plan accordingly.
Dive bar with authentic Chicago vibe and no TVs creates a loud, energetic atmosphere. Walls display historic memorabilia and the space features live local music and a pinball machine. Cash-only policy and eclectic decor add to the straightforward, no-frills experience.
Offers a real old Chicago feel with a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Kitchen serves great burgers that stand out for a dive bar.
A laid-back spot with a retro vibe creates a super cool atmosphere. Friendly people add to the overall chill feel.
Good to know
Skylark is a cash-only establishment, so bring cash or use the ATM inside.
They now offer a really good brunch with hosted pop-ups on weekends.
Expect a fun atmosphere with events like 'Roll the Tire Tuesdays with Dano.'
Narrow space combines dive bar vibes with a small concert venue featuring live jam bands and eclectic shows. Walls display local art, and wooden bench booths add to the creative, relaxed atmosphere. Crowd is diverse, lively, and drawn by affordable drinks and authentic counterculture energy.
A genuine dive bar vibe fills the space with a friendly, chill atmosphere. Drink options go beyond basics, offering some nice choices alongside the classic dive bar feel.
A cool Chicago dive feel sets the vibe with a bar up front and a stage area in the back. The spot stays cool even on Sunday evenings.
Good to know
There is a $10 minimum for card payments, equivalent to two drinks.
Expect a lively atmosphere with frequent live events like comedy and music.
Open mic nights happen regularly, showcasing local talent.
Small dive bar with cozy Irish pub vibe and warm lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere. Regulars and locals gather for live music and DJs, especially on weekends. Outdoor beer garden adds space to the intimate setting.
Authentic Chicago style defines the dive bar atmosphere here. The spot offers a solid vibe with a neighborhood feel.
Small size gives it a cozy vibe. The bar has a laid-back atmosphere that feels genuinely cool.
Good to know
Street parking is available, but there is no dedicated parking lot.
Expect a friendly atmosphere with regulars who know each other.
Live music events happen periodically, including duos and karaoke.
Classic dive bar with dark, gritty atmosphere and punk rock decor sets a raw, authentic tone. Loud, powerful live music energizes the space, attracting fans of punk and rock scenes. Tight layout offers room to dance without feeling cramped, creating a vibrant, underground vibe.
Dark, gritty, and loud with a lot of character, this dive bar plays unapologetically rock music. It stands out as a classic punk dive bar with a strong punk vibe.
Dark vibes set a cool atmosphere throughout the venue. The space looks super cool and works well as a bar and music spot.
Good to know
Liar’s Club is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.
Street parking is the only option available near Liar’s Club.
They host Kiss karaoke around Halloween every year.
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.
Quirky hole-in-the-wall with a huge whiskey selection and interesting wall art. Offers a comfortable, laid back vibe typical of a true dive bar.
A cool punk vibe fills the space with a dark, underground atmosphere. The place feels like a relaxing dive bar with a party area and amenities.
Good to know
Delilah's allows you to bring your own food to the bar.
Dollar beer night happens on Mondays, offering great deals.
They offer daily drink specials, including $3 beers and shots.
Small dive bar with excellent sound system and a decent stage hosts live punk and rock music. Walls display metal and punk memorabilia, creating a laid-back, energetic vibe popular with metal and rock fans. Space is cozy but lively, often crowded with room to dance and socialize.
A grungy little spot with rock music and a cash-only bar. It keeps the live band vibe alive in a small, dive bar setting.
Atmosphere feels really laid back with a cool vibe. Walls show off metal and punk memorabilia while the bartender and sound guy add to the chill scene.
Good to know
Expect a $12 cover charge for live music events.
The venue is cash-only, with an ATM available inside.
Parking can be challenging due to limited street availability.
Small live music bar offers an intimate venue with authentic performances by local bands. The atmosphere is chill and friendly, often crowded on weekends, with music loud enough to limit conversation. A large outdoor patio provides a relaxed space that contrasts the cozy, sometimes hot interior.
Live music plays every evening, creating a lively atmosphere. The spot has strong dive bar vibes and caters to an adult crowd.
Small size creates an intimate setting with a cool atmosphere. The place carries a historic vibe that adds to its charm.
Good to know
Live music happens almost every night, featuring various genres including rock and alternative.
Cover charges apply for entry, so be prepared to pay upon arrival.
The venue allows outside food, but no food is available on-site.
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 classic hole in the wall with fairly priced drinks and a solid vibe. Offers decent dive bar food like burgers and chili alongside traditional sports bar elements.
Atmosphere feels relaxing with a cool vibe. Staff stay responsive and add to the laid-back mood.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.
Expect the bar to get crowded around 6-7 PM.
Pitchers are available for $13, making it a budget-friendly option.
Cozy dive bar with a neighborhood-style vibe and historic charm featuring 1950s cash registers. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, attracting an easygoing crowd that fills up by late evening. Offers free popcorn and a jukebox, creating a casual spot for hanging out or bar crawls.
Cozy, classic dive bar with a historic vibe and a look reminiscent of The Shire. It offers a fun, local atmosphere without any fancy frills.
A dive bar with a vibe that feels like The Shire. The cool door stands out right away, setting a unique tone.
Good to know
Karaoke night is every Tuesday, attracting a younger crowd.
Trivia happens on Wednesdays at 8pm with a lively host.
Seating fills up quickly on weekends, so arrive early.
Cozy dive bar with historic wooden interiors and a hidden speakeasy downstairs creates a unique old-school vibe. Social and friendly atmosphere fills the space with nostalgic memorabilia and warm energy. Regulars enjoy spinning a shot wheel and relaxing with good music and sports on TV.
Cozy spot with historic appeal and a full bar. Offers a food menu alongside classic dive bar vibes.
A hidden speakeasy in the basement gives the place a cool, old Chicago vibe. The bar features lots of old bar merchandise that adds to its cool atmosphere.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended for the downstairs speakeasy to ensure entry.
The hidden bar opens later in the evening, providing a unique experience.
Happy hour offers late night food and drink specials.
Dark dive bar with a half-circle bar, limited seating, and country flags hanging from the ceiling creates a true neighborhood vibe. Customers grab beers from refrigerators and bring them to the bar for opening, adding to the casual, self-serve feel. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with good music and a jukebox enhancing the experience.
Dark and authentic, this dive bar offers a great selection of beers and a genuine vibe without feeling cheap or dirty. The bartender, Frank, stands out as an exceptional presence behind the bar.
Strong drinks come at half the price of other bars in this old school spot. Picking your own beer adds a cool touch, while the friendly staff keeps the vibe welcoming and laid-back.
Good to know
Rossi's is a cash-only bar that opens at 7am.
Rossi's has a full crowd during Riot Fest season.
Expect limited seating during peak hours.
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 levels and a rooftop create a dive bar on steroids vibe. Food sticks to classic dive bar fare, with crispy fried pickle spears standing out.
Unique bar grill with cool graffiti and an off the beaten path atmosphere. It offers a chill vibe for music enthusiasts to hang out.
Good to know
Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshares.
The venue hosts live music events almost every weekend.
Food service ends at 10pm, so plan accordingly.
Dive bar with a tight live music venue tucked in the back offers an intimate atmosphere and great acoustics. Dark interior and friendly regulars create a chill, underground vibe where local shows and conversations mix easily.
Shotgun-style layout creates an honest dive bar vibe. Live bands play in a somewhat secret backend area, adding to the atmosphere.
Live music creates a cool vibe here. The bar stands out as a unique dive spot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Good to know
DJ performances happen on emo Saturdays, creating a lively atmosphere.
Dancing is allowed in the back, making the space feel open and inviting.
Prices at the bar are reasonable for drinks and events.
Old school dive bar with a slightly updated vibe offers a cozy, laid back atmosphere and intimate space. Jazz and blues performances on Sundays add to the wholesome, lively energy. Cash-only policy and student clientele shape the experience near campus.
Old school dive bar vibe mixes with a slightly updated feel. Food stands out with Swiss burger and better quality than typical dive bar fare. College crowd fits the classic dive bar atmosphere well.
Atmosphere feels cool and dark, giving the bar a distinct vibe. It stands out as a pretty cool spot overall.
Good to know
Woodlawn Tap is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for your visit.
Expect a busy atmosphere, especially on weekends with a college crowd.
Live music events occur on certain nights, adding to the bar's vibe.
Older building with vintage cash register creates a cozy, divey vibe that feels upscale. Crowd consists mostly of locals enjoying affordable drinks and casual games like beer pong and darts. Atmosphere stays chill and fun, with simple, no-fuss charm and pet-friendly policy.
Offers a simple, no-fuss vibe with affordable drinks. Stays true to classic dive bar style without frills.
Cool vibe comes from a non-pretentious atmosphere in a historic older building. Seasonal touches like Halloween decorations add fun to the space.
Good to know
Dugans is a pet-friendly bar, welcoming dogs on the patio.
You can order dinner from outside restaurants to enjoy at Dugans.
The bar does not serve food, so plan accordingly.
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.
Classic dive bar vibe with old school ambiance, cash-only setup, and a no-frills, dark and dirty atmosphere. Drinks stick to basics like beer and shots, matching the authentic, unpretentious feel.
Cash-only dive bar vibe feels retro and super cool. Film-based photo booth adds a unique, cool experience.
Good to know
Rainbo Club only accepts cash payments.
Rainbo Club does not serve food, but they have chips if asked.
The crowd at Rainbo Club is mostly artists and locals.
Neighborhood bar with art-filled dive bar style and nostalgic decor offers a lively front room and quieter back room. Atmosphere stays cozy and friendly with classic rock music at a sensible volume, making conversation easy. Pinball and board games add to the casual, unpretentious vibe.
Walls covered with artwork create a unique vibe in this classic Chicago dive bar. It feels like a neighborhood spot with a laid-back atmosphere.
A classic transition bar with really nice, cool vibes. It works well as a pregame or cool-down spot.
Good to know
Cash is preferred, and a 10% discount is given for not using cards.
There is no food available, but patrons can bring or order in food.
Happy hour runs on weekdays, offering a nice atmosphere for casual drinks.
Wood-themed dive bar with an intimate, quirky atmosphere and handmade wooden bar. Mellow and relaxed vibe with live music performances and great acoustics during shows. Crowd is local and diverse, resisting typical corporate or sports bar energy.
Records play on a turntable, setting a classic dive bar atmosphere. Prices stay good and affordable, though the crowd leans toward the wealthiest drinkers in the area.
A handmade wooden bar sets a classic, cool vibe. The bartender with super cool glasses adds to the friendly, engaging atmosphere.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.
The Gman Tavern hosts Jeopardy games every Wednesday at 8pm.
The bar is adults only, so no minors are allowed.
Old pub from the 1930s with historic essence and spacious outdoor seating featuring multiple TVs. Loud, energetic atmosphere with an incredible DJ and family-friendly activities. Known as a comfortable neighborhood hangout and dive bar with a fun vibe and good drinks.
Floor in the back holds a funky smell that adds to the authentic old dive bar vibe. It feels like a routine local spot with classic dive bar character.
A local hangout with a cool vibe and part of the Chicago One series. Tons of cool lights upstairs add to the atmosphere.
Good to know
Trivia night happens every Tuesday from 7 to 9 PM.
Lottie's Pub hosts late night DJ dancing on weekends.
Private event rentals are available for the basement area.
Bar combines retro neighborhood vibe with a large hidden patio and video games. Atmosphere feels like a local pub with country and rock music, attracting a crowd mostly over 45 years old. Cocktails are creative and the setting mixes funky, nostalgic elements with consistent comfort.
Craft cocktails stand out in a dive bar setting with an old school dive bar vibe. The atmosphere feels slightly fancy yet maintains a clean, adorable dive bar aesthetic.
The patio offers a cool vibe that stands out, especially outdoors. Drinks include cheap beer and fun mixed cocktails, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Good to know
The bar can get quite crowded, especially on weekends.
Seating is first come, first serve, so arrive early.
Parking in the area may be a little difficult.
Eclectic dive bar with free popcorn, darts, and a patio creates a casual, neighborhood vibe. Atmosphere ranges from friendly and fun during games and live music to occasionally unwelcoming. Regulars gather for cheap drinks and a relaxed place to watch sports.
Offers a no-frills dive bar vibe with cheap drinks and plenty of seating. Features darts and popcorn for a casual, fun atmosphere.
Atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting. The spot has a unique charm that stands out.
Good to know
Free food is offered on game days.
Live music happens on Wednesdays.
Food is available from a hotdog place downstairs.
Small space with a dive bar vibe and brick wall creates a cozy, intimate setting. Music plays at the right volume, featuring hip-hop and anime themes, adding to a chill atmosphere. The spot feels lively and packed, with art and skateboarding videos enhancing the unique ambiance.
True dive bar vibe hits right at the entrance. It serves up smash burgers with a casual, no-frills feel, more bar than restaurant.
A speakeasy-like sushi restaurant creates a cool ambiance that stands out. The burger spot offers a very cool vibe alongside its great burgers.
Good to know
Happy hour includes a burger, fries, and a small drink.
The burger costs $16, with a mandatory 20% service charge added.
Expect to pay over $60 for two burgers and fries.
Classic dive bar with tavern-style cracker-thin crust pizza and ice cold Old Style beer creates a laid-back neighborhood vibe. Pool tables, darts, and a jukebox add to the cozy, timeless atmosphere. Cash-only policy with an ATM on site keeps things straightforward.
Offers a fun dive bar vibe with good beer on tap and quality liquor options. Pizza stands out as very good for a dive bar.
Bar staff show a cool vibe. The overall bar atmosphere feels pretty cool.
Good to know
Side Street Saloon is a cash-only bar with an ATM on site.
Free street parking is available around the bar.
The full kitchen closes around 9 or 9:30 PM on weekends.
Basement bar with pool tables, beer pong, and multiple TVs showing sports creates a lively, dive bar atmosphere. The space feels unpretentious and local, attracting a crowd that enjoys games and music in a grungy, festive vibe.
Offers a friendly, neighborhood vibe with a chill atmosphere. Delivers a solid, classic dive bar experience that feels authentic and welcoming.
A below-ground location creates a cool atmosphere with a vibe that stays strong even on a Sunday night. The spot feels off the beaten path yet maintains a neighborhood bar charm.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.
Streeter's Tavern allows customers to bring food from other establishments to their outdoor patio.
A DJ plays on Friday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.
Bar space divides into three distinct rooms featuring live jazz and funk music, karaoke, and a pool table area. Atmosphere shifts from vibrant and lively to cozy with nostalgic decor and multiple bars across two levels. Frequented by a diverse crowd, it offers specialty cocktails and TV screens throughout for entertainment.
A quiet spot with a comfortable dive bar feel downtown. Offers a good beer selection but prices can be surprisingly high for the vibe.
A cool dive bar vibe fills the space with lively atmosphere and chill staff. Drinks come out solid while the decor and live band add to the overall cool feel.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Tuesday night, so arrive early to secure a spot.
Expect long wait times on Thursdays for karaoke; plan for at least 1.5 hours.
The bar has a $5 cover charge at night for entry.
Small bar offers a cozy, old Chicago vibe with a small, crowded interior and a heated patio that expands the space. The atmosphere is loud and lively, filled with fun music and a friendly energy. It attracts a mix of people who enjoy quality burgers and cold beers in a neighborhood setting.
Feels like a home dive bar with a charming dive bar vibe inside. It operates as a $2 million bar acquisition but keeps the neighborhood dive bar spirit alive.
Atmosphere stands out with its cool vibe and good energy. The bar offers a solid selection of great beer.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.
Expect a 45-minute wait during peak hours after 6pm.
The menu now offers only two types of smash burgers.
Neighborhood bar with laid-back atmosphere and classic Chicago feel offers plenty of TVs for sports fans and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Crowded seating and rowdy energy appear during busy times, balanced by friendly vibe and casual crowd. Known for some of the best wings in Chicago, it suits groups and casual hangouts alike.
An iconic neighborhood spot with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of screens for Sunday football. It has a tight and rowdy vibe with a young crowd and some of the best wings in the city.
Effortlessly cool bartenders bring a confident vibe to the bar. The spot has a laid-back atmosphere and a dive bar vibe that feels really cool and worth stopping by.
Good to know
Bird's Nest offers daily drink specials that are worth checking out.
Happy hour deals are available, making it a great time to visit.
The kitchen closes more than two hours before the posted closing time.
Bar combines rocker dive bar style with a club-like atmosphere after renovation. Music shifts from dark wave to Pop Top 100, creating a lively but less unique vibe. Weekdays stay quiet while weekends bring a cool, energetic crowd.
A rocker dive bar with solid late night vibes, this spot serves as a reliable neighborhood hangout. It offers a post-work atmosphere that fits the classic dive bar feel.
Vibe feels cool and divey without being grimey. Staff come off as chill and cool, adding to the clean, cool atmosphere.
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 pm with half-priced drinks.
The kitchen opens at 10 pm, serving food late into the night.
Expect a lively atmosphere on Friday nights with a packed bar.
Old school sports bar with many TVs showing multiple games and local team memorabilia creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Pool tables and interactive games add to the energetic vibe. The floor slants toward the back, giving the space a unique physical character.
Sports bar atmosphere blends with dive bar vibes and genuine character. Burgers and casual drinks fit the unpretentious, fun setting.
Many screens show multiple games, creating a sports-focused vibe. The place has a dive bar atmosphere that feels relaxed and casual.
Good to know
Happy hour offers $5 drafts 10 minutes before it starts.
Expect a $90 bill for pizza, wings, and tater tots.
Food is ready upon arrival, ensuring quick service.