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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Chicago

Live music

A venue where the live music is the main event rather than just background noise for the room.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
Liar’s Club image 1
Liar’s Club image 2
Liar’s Club image 3
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Classic dive bar with punk rock decor and a gritty atmosphere fuels a raw vibe. Live bands and DJs deliver powerful performances that energize the crowd. Tight layout offers space to dance, creating a vibrant underground scene.

Live band energy fills the room with vibrant sounds. The venue hosts live music and DJs that bring strong performances and good vibes.

People are saying

"I found the live music here to be great and the vibes were rad."

"This bar's punk vibe is dark, gritty, and loud."

"The drinks here are cheap, especially the beer and shots."

Good to know

1

Liar’s Club is cash only, so bring cash for drinks.

2

Street parking is the only option available near Liar’s Club.

3

They host Kiss karaoke around Halloween every year.

02
Garcia’s Chicago image 1

Intimate venue offers excellent sound system and cozy atmosphere perfect for jazz lovers. Live music shines with great booker securing top acts. Two bars and well-spaced tables create a relaxed setting for a solid night out combining dinner and music.

Live music features excellent jazz performances and is booked by a great booker. The venue combines dinner and music for a solid night out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and expertly prepared."

"It's an intimate concert venue where you're feet away from performers."

"The sound quality for live music here is crisp and clear."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20, but street parking is cheaper if timed right.

2

The venue accepts only card payments; cash is not accepted.

3

Dinner and show experiences are available, enhancing the visit.

03
Rosa's Lounge image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers live blues and jazz with local talent. Cozy, welcoming vibe feels like a classic blues club. Shared tables and a dance floor create a relaxed, friendly space close to the action.

Live Jazz and blues fill the room, creating a vibe that keeps the place rocking. The music moves you whether you're a blues fanatic or just looking for a memorable night.

People are saying

"You can catch authentic Chicago blues and feel the passion of the music."

"This blues bar is a true Chicago gem."

"The live music here is soulful and moves you."

Good to know

1

Tickets are required to enter Rosa’s Lounge but can be purchased at the door.

2

Live blues performances occur five nights a week, featuring various artists.

3

Parking is on the street, so consider using public transport to avoid tickets.

04
Martyrs' image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers intimate setting and big stage for live music. Warm atmosphere with friendly crowd invites dancing. Sound system and lighting enhance every performance.

Big stage and intimate room size create a cozy setting for live music. The venue hosts lively performances with a cool, dark bar atmosphere and reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I watched live music and found it to be a great experience."

"It's a fun, cozy venue with a great vibe."

"The ambience here is super chill."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be difficult to find during busy events.

2

The venue hosts shows nightly, featuring a variety of local and touring acts.

3

Drinks are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option for a night out.

05
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 1

Modern, chic space with luxurious decorations and bright golden lettering sets an upscale tone. Live jazz music and a versatile singer create a warm, inviting atmosphere that blends perfectly with upscale Thai cuisine. Intimate layout keeps the vibe lively and personal.

Live jazz music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the evening. A versatile singer performs various musical genres, adding to the fun experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"This place is perfect for dates with its warm, intimate atmosphere."

"I walked in on live jazz night and it was a fun experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.

3

Expect a separate charge for protein in dishes, which can increase total costs.

06
Stardust image 1

Two floors blend dueling piano and DJ-driven speakeasy vibes with futuristic astrology decor. Music shifts from jazz and blues to R&B, fueling a lively, authentic Chicago feel. Karaoke and live piano keep energy high in this cocktail bar and late night spot.

Live music features a mix of karaoke, live piano singing, and DJ sets that energize the space. The music creates a lively atmosphere in this cocktail bar and late night spot.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are super friendly and welcoming."

"I loved the fantastic live music and the energy it created."

"The decor here is super cool, mixing diner vibes with astrology."

Good to know

1

Parking garages are nearby, and street parking is available.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash may be preferred.

3

The venue features live jazz, blues, and piano performances regularly.

07
Vito’s Vault image 1
Dinner theater

Dinner theater offers interactive comedy and live piano music in a 1929 speakeasy setting. Crowd participation adds to the immersive experience with engaging performances blending song, dance, and humor. Atmosphere feels like Old School Chicago with lively, joyful energy.

Live piano music and live singers create a strong presence that often outshines other aspects. Performances include song, dance, and comedy, offering a joyful break from daily life.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and tasty."

"The dinner spots here have hilarious characters and audience participation."

"The food and drinks were delish, and the live music was entertaining."

Good to know

1

The $80 ticket includes a 4-course meal and a 90-minute interactive show.

2

Parking is plentiful and easy near the venue.

3

The performers serve meals, creating a unique dining experience.

08
O's Tap image 1

Koi pond bar creates a unique vibe while live music delivers killer performances in a cash-only setting. Outdoor patio with heaters keeps it cozy year-round. Regulars and bartenders add to the easy-going mood in this traditional Irish pub.

Live music features killer performances in a cash-only setting. The atmosphere supports great music consistently.

People are saying

"The koi pond bar has real fish swimming underneath it."

"I thought the live music here was killer."

"The back room area is amazing and really cool."

Good to know

1

O's Tap is a cash-only establishment with live music.

2

Food is available during pop-up events at the bar.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during live music events.

09
The Embassy image 1
Sports bar

Authentic Irish pub offers perfect pints and hearty dishes with a cozy, friendly vibe. Multiple TV screens bring sports bar energy while live music by Evin O Rourdin adds a lively atmosphere. Back patio provides outdoor seating for relaxed gatherings.

Live music features Evin O Rourdin performing with energy and skill. Music nights create a lively atmosphere that many enjoy.

People are saying

"The staff here makes watching live sports feel like you're with friends."

"I found it to be a brilliant, friendly Irish pub with proper pints."

"I really loved the live music nights here."

Good to know

1

The pub opens at 6:30 am for early sports events like EPL matches.

2

Parking on Taylor Street can be challenging; consider public transport.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during major sports events.

10
Barrel cheese & wine | cocktails | Event Space image 1

Speak-easy bar offers dim lighting and comfortable lounge seating for cozy chats. Live music shines with talented performers and pairs well with quality drinks. Dog-friendly outdoor patio blends indoor comfort with street vibes.

Talented live music plays regularly, including on Wednesdays. The setting features sultry decor and pairs well with quality drinks and yummy charcuterie.

People are saying

"I loved the wine selection, especially with the cheese boards."

"The cocktails here were amazing and enjoyable."

"I loved the talented live music that matched the wine selection."

Good to know

1

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

2

Live music performances occur on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

The venue offers a spacious event space suitable for 40-50 guests.

11
Carol's Pub image 1

Classic honky-tonk bar offers live country music and a lively yet balanced atmosphere. Enjoy tasty cheeseburgers and fries in a small venue with an up-close concert feel. Affordable drinks and artsy decor create a charming neighborhood vibe perfect for dancing and socializing.

A classic honky-tonk bar with great live music ranging from classic rock to 90s pop and country favorites. Local bands play regularly, creating a lively crowd and a spot to catch live bands and dance.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the lively crowd."

"I thought the burgers here were pretty good for the price."

"The cocktails here were amazing and excellent."

Good to know

1

Karaoke events happen on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Trivia night is every Wednesday at 8pm with no entry fee.

3

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

12
Burlington Bar image 1

Dive bar with a tight live music venue offers an intimate vibe and great acoustics. Dark interior and friendly regulars create a chill atmosphere. Local shows mix with easy conversations, making it a cool spot for music lovers.

A lowkey stage sits tucked away in a secret backend area of this dive bar. It hosts live bands regularly, creating a cool spot for music.

People are saying

"This bar has a great stage and sound system for performers."

"It's a super chill spot with friendly regulars and great music."

"It's a chill spot with a lowkey live music venue in the back."

Good to know

1

DJ performances happen on emo Saturdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Dancing is allowed in the back, making the space feel open and inviting.

3

Prices at the bar are reasonable for drinks and events.

13
Qs Lounge image 1
Lounge

Cozy outdoor heated patio tent offers a live band and DJ with great music. Friendly, mature crowd enjoys laid-back vibes and dancing. Perfect for private parties and after-work drinks in a safe, chill space.

Live bands bring a great vibe with amazing performances. Music pairs well with the food, making it a fun spot to chill.

People are saying

"The bartender Cruz made my drinks perfectly and was so attentive."

"I loved the nice atmosphere and mature, relaxing vibe."

"The live music here was amazing and a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge if there is a large party.

2

All street parking is available, but avoid the bus lane.

3

The lounge is for mature adults only.

14
Blue Chicago image 1
Live music bar

Small vintage blues bar offers intimate live music with a narrow stage showcasing local talent. Cozy, authentic vibe keeps the crowd lively and dancing late into the night. Cash-only setup adds to the no-frills charm.

Phenomenal live band music plays late into the night, creating a cozy spot downtown. The shows offer top-notch entertainment that transports listeners to another time and place.

People are saying

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

"I experienced authentic blues music in a small club."

"It's an intimate space, really close to the artists."

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.

15
Bistro Monadnock image 1
French restaurant

Historic building hosts a French bistro with European charm and elegant design. Live jazz by the Daniel Chavez Trio on Wednesdays adds a vibrant atmosphere. Skilled bar crafts standout cocktails in a cozy, stylish space perfect for refined dining.

Live jazz fills the space with the Daniel Chavez Trio performing on Wednesday nights. The music creates a vibrant atmosphere that draws attention.

People are saying

"The escargot here is outstanding and alone worth the visit."

"I thought the French onion soup rivaled the best I had in Paris."

"The live music here creates a great ambiance."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid being turned away.

2

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

3

Expect a $10 charge for each cheese on the charcuterie board.

16
Fuller's Pub image 1
Irish pub

Small, intimate Irish pub offers a blues vibe with live music on select nights. Regulars and staff create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a local spot. Drinks focus on whiskey and beer, with no food served.

Incredible live music fills the space with energy. A live band of wonderful people performs well, creating an awesome atmosphere with only drinks served, no food.

People are saying

"The live bands here make for such fun activities."

"I enjoyed the awesome live music."

"The bar has a great atmosphere and a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Dennis Melzer runs a music jam at Fuller's Pub once a month on Fridays.

2

Fuller's Pub hosts a blues jam event on Mondays.

3

Live music is featured every Friday and Saturday night.

17
Live Wire Lounge image 1

Small dive bar with excellent sound system hosts live punk and rock music in a cozy, lively space. Walls show metal and punk memorabilia, creating an energetic vibe. Regular shows make it a fun night spot for music lovers.

The venue offers great live music with a fun night atmosphere. It features a neighborhood bar setting that hosts regular live shows.

People are saying

"This dive bar has awesome live music."

"I love the loud local metal music they play here."

"I experienced great live music and a fun time overall."

Good to know

1

Expect a $12 cover charge for live music events.

2

The venue is cash-only, with an ATM available inside.

3

Parking can be challenging due to limited street availability.

18
Hunter's on Halsted image 1

Small music hall offers an intimate vibe with a clean dive bar feel. Hosts live DJs and up-and-coming acts in a quirky space. Young crowd creates a welcoming community hub with great sound for unique performances.

Great room for live music with a setup that supports unique performances. Offers a solid mix of live music and drinks in a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a charming, cozy bar with a welcoming and intimate vibe."

"I always enjoyed the unique live music here."

Good to know

1

Open mic night occurs every Wednesday at 8pm.

2

The bar offers no food except for bags of chips.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with a younger crowd, mostly in their 20s.

19
Jazz Showcase image 1
Jazz club

Intimate jazz club with historic décor and excellent acoustics creates a cozy vibe. Talented musicians deliver engaging live jazz that fills the room. Dim lighting and comfy seats make it perfect for soaking in pure jazz.

Live jazz fills the room with talented musicians delivering engaging performances. The venue offers a great atmosphere that enhances the experience of enjoying local talent.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great live jazz performances here."

"I enjoyed the excellent cocktails and draft beers."

"I enjoyed the great live music and had a fun time."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 per person for entry.

2

Jazz Showcase does not serve food but allows patrons to bring their own.

3

It is advisable to buy tickets in advance as shows often sell out.

20
Thalia Hall image 1
Live music venue

Historic opera house offers intimate concerts with great acoustics and vintage charm. Spacious layout with balcony and bars creates a cool atmosphere and excellent views. Sound quality is clear and balanced, perfect for lively live music.

Sound quality stands out with clear and balanced audio. The venue size feels just right for an intimate yet lively live music experience.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue with awesome sound and good acoustics."

"It's a cool old school venue with unique architecture."

"I found it to be a great venue for live music."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area can be rough; add time for street parking.

2

The coat check costs $5.

3

Food is reasonably priced, with popcorn at $4 and hot dogs at $5.

21
Bottom Lounge image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers intimate live music with excellent sound quality in a cozy space. Speakeasy vibe adds charm while a lively crowd enjoys the fun bar atmosphere upstairs. No seating inside music hall and a pillar may block some views.

Live music happens in an intimate setting with a speakeasy feeling in the back room. The sound quality stays clear and undistorted, making it a great spot to catch shows.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The bar staff were awesome and helped me get water."

"It's a great place for live music."

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.

22
Winter's Jazz Club image 1

Small jazz club offers phenomenal acoustics and a speakeasy atmosphere. Live performances are intimate with great bands playing regularly. Cocktails here are top-notch, perfectly matching the relaxed vibe.

Intimate setting hosts live jazz performances where the audience listens attentively. Great bands play regularly, creating a perfect spot for live music lovers.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, intimate room for enjoying jazz."

"The cocktails here are amazing and refreshing."

"The live music here is top tier and always gets the room grooving."

Good to know

1

Tickets can be purchased online, with VIP seating available for $40.

2

Winter's Jazz Club does not serve food or snacks.

3

Getting to the club can be somewhat hidden and may require some effort.

23
Fifty Yard Line image 1

Neighborhood bar with live blues music and a laid back atmosphere draws a crowd 35 and up. Regular shows, even on weekdays, keep energy high. Chicago Steppin dancing adds a lively touch to this unpretentious, old school spot.

Live music happens regularly with engaging performances that create a lively atmosphere. Shows occur even on weekdays like Tuesday, keeping the energy consistent.

People are saying

"The chicken wings here are great and the people are nice."

"It's a great dance spot."

"I loved the live music on Tuesday nights."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night with a lively DJ.

2

Live blues music is featured every Tuesday night.

3

Expect a cover fee for outdoor seating during busy nights.

24
The Atlantic Bar & Grill image 1

Pub buzzes with energetic game day vibes and friendly regulars. Live music fills front and back spaces with great sound and vibrant acts. Tottenham fans add passion, while wide food and drink options keep everyone happy.

Live music plays regularly with a great sound setup and a vibrant atmosphere. The venue hosts a variety of acts that keep the energy up throughout the night.

People are saying

"You'll love the game day atmosphere watching live sports here."

"The food here is amazing and thoughtfully displayed."

"The live music here was great."

Good to know

1

The bar is an official Tottenham supporters bar, popular during match days.

2

Expect a crowded environment on match days with limited seating.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on game days.

25
Epiphany Center for the Arts image 1

Historic church turned event venue shines with intimate acoustics and rotating art displays. Outdoor terrace hosts live jazz bands while indoor spaces buzz with jam sessions and DJ sets. Garden and bar areas add to the inviting vibe.

Multiple live music venues offer rotating featured art and performances. Outdoor courtyard hosts sick bands while inside features jam sessions and dance-friendly shows.

People are saying

"I found the renovated church space really cool and artsy."

"I saw fantastic art exhibitions from Chicago's top emerging artists."

"It's a fantastic venue for enjoying live music."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm in the main bar with discounted drinks.

2

Free or low-cost events are available all weekend long.

3

Parking is limited; nearby street and garage options are available.

26
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club offers live jazz in a cozy, lively setting with colorful jazz-inspired wallpaper. Private room with bar adds intimate vibes amid a bustling crowd. The Lounge hosts music for about 100 guests, blending jazz club and restaurant elements.

Excellent live jazz band performances create a vibrant atmosphere. A larger space called The Lounge hosts live music for about 100 guests during welcome receptions.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and delicious."

"I enjoyed the amazing jazz music during my visit."

"The live music here is amazing, especially the cocktails."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made well in advance.

2

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

3

Valet parking costs $16 for three hours, making it convenient for guests.

27
Ciao! Cafe & Wine Lounge image 1
Italian restaurant

Intimate lounge offers live jazz on weekends with a cozy vibe that feels like home. Small menu features solid Italian eats and handcrafted cocktails. Limited seating draws a laid-back crowd for relaxed nights.

Live music features intimate jazz performances mostly on weekends. Musicians and singers bring a friendly, engaging vibe that complements the cozy setting.

People are saying

"It's an intimate spot with amazing live music."

"The food here is consistently great and delicious."

"You can catch live jazz music here on the weekends."

Good to know

1

Live music nights are a popular attraction at the venue.

2

Food is available to order past midnight.

3

The venue accepts only cash payments.

28
The Lobby image 1
American restaurant

Luxurious interior with live violin and cello music creates an elegant, quiet atmosphere perfect for special occasions. Classic decor blends with modern flair and offers views of an ice skating rink. Some tables near busy service areas can disrupt the otherwise calm, refined vibe.

Live music plays from the balcony, creating an amazing ambience. The decor complements the great live music experience.

People are saying

"The holiday tea experience with magical Mr. and Mrs. Claus is so kid friendly."

"I found the holiday tea terrific and wonderful."

"The live music here creates an amazing ambience."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM, Monday through Sunday, and can be booked on OpenTable.

2

Reservations are recommended for holiday-themed tea events like Halloween and Christmas.

3

The restaurant offers a separate menu for vegetarian options and accommodates dietary restrictions.

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