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Guide to Chicago

Unique wine finds

You want a wine bar that offers an experience you cannot find anywhere else.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Above Average DIY Candle Studio image 1
Above Average DIY Candle Studio image 2
Above Average DIY Candle Studio image 3
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Small, intimate studio in a basement offers DIY candle making paired with wine tasting and chocolate. Warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with great music and a friendly, energetic vibe encourages connection and fun among couples and friends.

Wine pairs with chocolate in a couples tasting that includes refreshments and birthday cupcakes. Workshops combine wine tasting with candle making led by Kurt and Marz.

The class offers a unique and fun experience that stands out from other candle-making sessions. It features an outstanding selection of fragrances and creates a memorable time for date nights or casual outings.

People are saying

"Karen made the whole experience so fun and lively."

"It's a fun, unique experience for a creative date night."

"Sam made the candle-making experience so fun and exciting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for all events to ensure availability.

2

Candle-making classes are available for couples and groups, providing a fun interactive experience.

3

Murder mystery events are popular and provide a fun twist to the candle-making class.

02
Trino Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Cozy blend of industrial and mid-century modern speakeasy styles with exposed brick, murals, and velvety colors creates a romantic, intimate atmosphere. Soft classic salsa and bachata music sets a warm, inviting vibe. Creative space design and curated cocktail offerings distinguish it from typical steakhouses.

Unique wines from Mexico stand out here. Two bottles, including Flor de Canela, pair perfectly with meals and offer excellent flavor.

Food features a unique Latin American twist with perfectly prepared dishes. Appetizers and small plates offer distinctive flavors and textures that balance well across a varied menu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the steaks cooked to perfection."

"The food here is unique, with delicious Latin American twists."

"The wine pairings here are great and complement the meal."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially weekends.

3

Trino Steakhouse is closed on Mondays but available for private events.

03
Michuu Ethiopian Restaurant image 1
Ethiopian restaurant

Small space with handmade traditional decor creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels like dining at someone's home. Guests experience a warm, welcoming vibe enhanced by an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony and unique Oromo dishes not found elsewhere.

Staff offer honey wine to try, highlighting it among their beverage options. The selection also includes Ethiopian tea and Ethiopian coffee with ceremony.

Dishes here stand out with unique Ethiopian options not found elsewhere in the city. The Anchote dish blends vegan and non-vegan elements with ghee and eggs for a distinct flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I discovered unique Ethiopian dishes I couldn't find elsewhere."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

The menu includes options suitable for all diets, including vegetarian and gluten-free.

3

Expect generous portions that are great for sharing.

04
Maman Zari image 1
Persian restaurant

Persian restaurant offers an elegant, cozy space with clean, understated decor and a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Guests experience authentic, elevated Persian flavors paired with unique saffron-infused cocktails in a setting that balances tradition and modernity.

Meticulous wine pairings match each dish perfectly, enhancing flavors with thoughtful contrasts and echoes. The menu offers six well-curated wines paired with savory courses, all fairly priced and tasty.

Unique flavors and well-balanced tasting menu create a distinct meal with unique textures and tastes. The saffron-infused Gonabad Gin cocktail adds a standout touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The Tasting Menu's dishes were so flavorful and perfectly executed."

"The food here has unique flavors and textures."

"I found the wine pairing with the tasting menu very good."

Good to know

1

The next new menu release is set to come on October 31st, 2023.

2

Wine Wednesday offers discounted bottles for a great experience.

3

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot, especially on busy nights.

05
Apero image 1
Wine bar

Wine bar offers a cozy patio tucked away in back and a beautifully detailed interior. Atmosphere stays relaxed and chic, suited for dates or small parties. Natural and orange wines stand out, paired with memorable appetizers and desserts.

Exceptional wine selection features many options including orange wines. Staff provide detailed recommendations and share stories about each wine's origin and qualities.

Apero features a unique selection of wines from around the world. Staff guide through a long list of interesting and delicious options.

People are saying

"They helped me pick the perfect wine and explained its background."

"The patio is a fantastic hidden gem, perfect for warm evenings."

"I found a unique selection of delicious wines from around the world."

Good to know

1

Apero does not serve food on Tuesday nights.

2

Apero has a dog-friendly patio.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounts on select wines.

06
Augusta Food and Wine image 1

Tiny shop with carefully curated wines and cheeses creates a welcoming neighborhood vibe without snobbery. Handwritten notes on bottles and a unique monthly wine club offer discovery and expertise. Reasonable prices and specialty foods make it accessible and inviting.

Selection includes unique wines from around the world with many bottles under $20. Staff offers knowledgeable recommendations and hosts free Thursday night tastings to explore new options.

Wine selections change monthly with unique grapes and regions rarely seen elsewhere. The shop offers a well-curated range of specialty products from around the world.

People are saying

"The staff here are super knowledgeable about wine and give great recommendations."

"I found amazing, cool, and unique wines because it's so well-curated."

"I found unique wines from all over the world."

Good to know

1

Free wine tastings are held every Thursday evening.

2

The wine club features unique selections from small vineyards each month.

3

Expect a friendly atmosphere with knowledgeable staff ready to help.

07
Grand Cru Chicago image 1

Large, inviting space offers a laid-back atmosphere with a diverse global wine selection. Regulars and newcomers mingle in a cozy, unpretentious setting that feels like a community hangout. Unique, niche wines from less common regions create an exploratory tasting experience.

Thoughtful wine tastings focus on regions like Willamette Valley and Sicily, offering a fun and educational experience. The owner curates an incredible selection from countries such as Greece, Argentina, and South Africa, providing unique varietals hard to find elsewhere.

Unique and niche wines shape the selection here. Personal flights feature exceptional, hard-to-find bottles curated with great recommendations.

People are saying

"Matt curated a personal wine flight with unique, niche selections."

"You'll discover unique wines you won't find elsewhere."

"It's a chill, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a casual night out."

Good to know

1

Comedy Cru events happen regularly, offering a fun night out with laughter.

2

Wine tastings feature themes like Willamette Valley and Bordeaux, providing educational experiences.

3

Happy hour tastings are available, showcasing a solid selection of wines.

08
Class Act image 1
Restaurant

Communal table seats up to 16 with an open kitchen where chefs prepare inventive dishes inspired by personal stories. Atmosphere blends elegant warmth with a close-knit, family dinner vibe, encouraging conversation among diners. Attached speakeasy offers advanced mixology for a refined post-dinner experience.

Champagne pairing includes both still and sparkling wines with detailed descriptions from the sommelier. Staff focus on knowledgeable wine pairings and unique selections from around the world complement each dish.

Food offers super unique flavors paired with unique wine selections from around the world. The setting creates a unique progression and ambiance that removes usual pretension and brings people together.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and paired phenomenally with the dishes."

"The food here is inventive and unique, with a special flair."

"The wine staff are so knowledgeable and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating, with only 12 guests per seating.

2

The tasting menu is fixed with no pre-check available for dishes.

3

Expect the dining experience to last a couple of hours with multiple courses.

09
Axum Ethiopian Restaurant image 1
Ethiopian restaurant

Spacious Ethiopian restaurant with a cozy interior and live piano music that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Offers a full bar and a beautiful patio for outdoor dining. The vibe is relaxed and suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.

Good wine selections complement the food well. The wine pairing works especially with the vegetarian platter.

Flavors stand out with unique stews and dishes that offer a pleasantly surprising taste. The menu delivers a distinctive dining experience centered on Ethiopian cuisine.

People are saying

"The Ethiopian food here is exquisite and unique."

"The stews here have unique flavors that are pleasantly surprising."

"The wine paired perfectly with the food."

Good to know

1

Street parking is easy to find, with free options on side streets.

2

A combo platter for two costs $50.

3

The restaurant offers excellent gluten-free options with 100% teff inejera.

10
Duneyrr Wine and Beer Company image 1

Compact two-level space offers a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere with chill music and dog-friendly tasting room. Regulars create a welcoming vibe, while unique blends of wine and beer deliver exceptional, clean-tasting drinks. Small size and artistic decor make it a hidden gem with a relaxed pace.

Innovative beer and wine hybrids stand out here, blending flavors in creative and delicious ways. The selection features high quality, boundary pushing wines that pair well with the equally exceptional beers.

Beers feature a unique style with a selection of wild ales and wine-inspired brews. Two levels offer a unique change of scenery while enjoying these well-made drinks.

People are saying

"The beer here is really interesting and well-crafted."

"I found the wine and beer selections to be really interesting and well-crafted."

"The beers here are really unique and well-made."

Good to know

1

Duneyrr Wine and Beer Company is dog-friendly and kid-friendly.

2

The brewery allows guests to bring their own food (BYOF).

3

They close early at 8 pm on Saturdays, with last call even earlier.

11
Gavroche image 1
French restaurant

Quaint French restaurant blends cozy intimacy with effortless elegance through ornate decor and modern French playlist. Atmosphere stays sophisticated and relaxed, attracting mostly an older crowd. Unique plating and curated details create a distinct experience from typical city spots.

Offers 50% off bottles of wine and caviar with a selection that covers almost all types. Wine and brut by the glass are high-quality options, reasonably priced and delicious.

Dinner offers an intimate experience with dishes like a memorable egg served in an eggshell. Cocktails stand out, featuring unique options like the Jean Val Jean and the dirty word cocktail.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The wine here is creative and layered with flavor."

"The dishes here are phenomenal and unique."

Good to know

1

Gavroche does not take reservations for two people.

2

Gavroche offers 50% off bottles of wine and caviar.

3

Dogs are welcome on the patio.

12
The Omakase Room at Sushi-San image 1

Intimate counter seating for ten creates a personal dining experience with a chef guiding each course. The room stays quiet and elegant, contrasting with the lively main restaurant downstairs. The menu blends French, Kaiseki, and Nigiri styles, paired with carefully selected sakes to complement the meal.

Wine and sake pairing stands out with its perfect match and great value alongside meals. Tastings highlight how well the flavors complement each other.

Only ten diners share the experience, all eating the same dishes at once, creating an intimate setting. The non-alcoholic drink pairings offer unique flavor combinations, and the dishes feature distinct flavors throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the fresh urchin."

"The omakase experience here is truly unique and innovative."

"The wine and sake pairing was perfect and offered great value."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating capacity.

2

The meal costs over $250 per person, making it a special occasion dining option.

3

The experience includes 18 courses, typically lasting around 75 minutes.

13
SHŌ Omakase image 1
Restaurant

Large, open sushi bar showcases chefs preparing inventive dishes in a sleek, modern Japanese setting. Atmosphere blends calming elegance with clubby background music, creating an unpretentious yet special vibe. Guests enjoy a highly curated sake selection and creative flavor combinations not commonly found elsewhere.

Exceptional wine and sake selections come with well matched pairings that include some unique tastes. Staff offers knowledgeable and informative descriptions for each dish and its wine pairing.

An innovative omakase offers 12 courses of unique Japanese fusion dishes with fresh ingredients. The space feels super cute and the presentation shows great attention to detail.

People are saying

"This Japanese food is an unforgettable, creative dining experience."

"The omakase experience here is unique, with fresh, artfully presented fusion dishes."

"The wine and sake pairings were fascinating and well matched."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance.

2

The price is $145 per person, which is considered a good value.

3

Each course features immaculate cuts of fish and thoughtful garnishes.

14
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.

Wines come in various tiers with a focus on European options. The list pairs well with a selection of craft cocktails offering many customization choices.

Three rooms offer distinct vibes that feel both artistic and warm. The setting blends eclectic wine and cocktail bar elements with a unique neighborhood character.

People are saying

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

"I found the wine selection here to be outstanding."

"It's a unique neighborhood locale with its own distinct character."

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.

15
Oak and Honey image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cozy, upscale boho vibe with tasteful decor including a standout zebra print. Space feels deceptively large but tables sit close together, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Bar seating suits solo diners, and a dog-friendly patio adds to the welcoming energy.

Wine Wednesday deal offers good value. A white wine from Uruguay pairs well with octopus. The overall wine selection is solid.

Dishes feature bacon, brie, and onion jam creating unique flavor combos. Cocktails offer a nice selection of unique options. Every dish is well prepared and distinct.

People are saying

"Our server Sharon was incredible and made our brunch experience better."

"The food here is outstanding and the service is impeccable."

"The food here is delicious and includes many unique dishes."

Good to know

1

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

2

Wine Wednesday features special deals on select wines.

3

Reservations can be made through Open Table.

16
Suda's image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Elegant dining room blends cozy atmosphere with clean, unpretentious design featuring white tablecloths and large windows. Background includes live Arabic music that enhances the welcoming vibe. Space offers wheelchair accessibility and a private lower level for parties, reflecting a sophisticated yet straightforward style.

An expansive Lebanese wine selection stands out here. Wine pairings come carefully selected to match beautifully presented dishes.

Knafeh stands out with a unique preparation not seen elsewhere. Baklava offers floral tones and a rich flavor without too much sweetness.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, authentic, and delicious."

"The local wine here is incredible and pairs perfectly with the authentic Lebanese food."

"The staff's hospitality made me feel like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets very busy.

2

Suda's offers excellent vegetarian and vegan options.

3

The pricing is reasonable, providing great value for the quality of food.

17
Westso Mexican Steakhouse image 1

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.

An extensive and well-curated wine list offers options to pair with every dish. Staff provide attentive service and guide with great food and wine pairing, highlighting underrated Mexican wines.

An upscale Mexican steakhouse blends cuisines with unique flavors not found elsewhere. The atmosphere feels almost gothic, with black decor adding an elegant touch.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and amazing."

"The food here is incredible, especially the steaks."

"I found the wine here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $10 margaritas and unique appetizers.

2

Tacos are $10 for three during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for the dueling pianos event on weekends.

18
Sauce & Bread Kitchen image 1

Small space with a hole-in-the-wall deli atmosphere offers a cozy and friendly vibe that feels like home. Ethically sourced homemade food includes technically perfect pastries and standout sandwiches. Occasional live jazz adds to the relaxed, charming environment.

Well-curated wine selection pairs with imaginative food and house-aged meats. Bottles are available to take home alongside unique cocktails and small detail concoctions.

Unique house hot sauces offer a range of flavors from delicate to flaming. House-aged meats and unique cocktails add distinct tastes to the flavorful breakfast and lunch items.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and original."

"The food here is creative, fresh, and truly unique."

"I loved their carefully curated wine selection."

Good to know

1

Dinner is available only on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Fridays feature spoken word or jazz nights.

3

Pizza night is a popular community event.

19
All Together Now image 1

Small space with cozy, friendly vibe and bright, warm decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Loud with simultaneous conversations and music, it feels lively and fun. Offers carefully curated wine selection and artisan foods in an intimate setting.

Staff offer advice on unique natural wines that pair well with meals. The selection includes approachable wines by the glass and a funky orange wine for adventurous palates.

A 70s-esque wine experience sets a unique tone here. The spot offers a friendly vibe and an amazingly unique wine and beer selection alongside dishes that stand out for their distinct flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I love the great selection of wine and cheese here."

"I loved the unique 70s-esque wine experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2:00 pm and offers great deals on drinks.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

3

There is a 5% service fee for purchasing a bottle of wine.

20
Butcher and the Bear image 1

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.

Dinner includes a bottle of Pinot noir that they aerate at the table. Cocktails and wine both come out very good.

Steak selection offers unique flavors with each cut. The wagyu tallow candle adds a rich, aromatic touch, and the focaccia topped with it has a distinctive presentation.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and full of flavor."

"Our server Caesar gave us great wine pairings and made the experience memorable."

"The steak here has a unique, buttery flavor and was cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; don't miss it.

3

The 'Girl Dinner' special on Sundays includes two martinis and caviar fries for $29.

21
Ox Bar & Hearth image 1
Restaurant

Open hearth kitchen creates a warm, inviting atmosphere with cozy, intimate seating that supports quiet conversation even when busy. Interior design balances casual and polished styles with warm wooden décor and clean lines. Bar program features carefully curated cocktails including standout bourbon and tequila selections.

A friendly bartender recommends wines that can become new favorites. The selection includes unique varietals from upper-Midwest producers not found everywhere.

Open hearth cooking creates an immersive ambiance. Unique dishes come with a private dining room that feels like a chef's table. The wine list features rare upper-Midwest varietals.

People are saying

"The food here is spectacular and deeply satisfying."

"The food here is unique, with thoughtful, elevated Midwest comfort flavors."

"The wine here is fantastic and crowd-pleasing."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect to spend around $75 per person for a full meal without drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a private dining room for special events.

22
Villa D' Citta Bed & Breakfast image 1

Chicago mansion offers cozy, romantic atmosphere with beautifully appointed rooms featuring fireplaces and private terraces. Shared spaces include rooftop hot tub, fully stocked kitchen, and patios that encourage gathering. Unique amenities like wine on tap and build-your-own cannoli station add distinctive charm.

A wine barrel embedded in a wall taps wine for toasting. Unlimited wine flows alongside wine on tap, paired with desserts like cannoli and panna cotta.

Wine service from the wall offers a unique and cool touch. The stay feels luxurious and one-of-a-kind, perfect for those seeking something different and romantic.

People are saying

"The homemade breakfasts, especially the banana bread, were delicious."

"I found the wine and food to be above my expectations."

"Gina's amazing hospitality and snacks made my stay unique."

Good to know

1

The property is in a safe neighborhood with many walkable restaurants.

2

Villa D' Citta is suitable for various events, including weddings.

3

Rooms feature luxurious amenities, including hot tubs and beautiful decor.

23
Turquoise Cafe & Restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers spacious outdoor patio with live jazz music creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The setting suits casual sit-down meals with a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Seating options include a cozy back room and beautiful sidewalk dining.

Wine flights offer a variety of tastes, paired well with small plates. Staff suggest wines thoughtfully, making selections easy and enjoyable.

Unique options appear in both the handcrafted drinks and cocktails. Dishes come with attractive presentation and distinct flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"Furkan's wine recommendations made our experience wonderful."

"The staff's warm hospitality and friendly service made it a unique experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily with special discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Live music is featured every Saturday evening, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Daily specials are available, offering unique dishes each day of the week.

24
Dēliz Italian Steakhouse image 1

Elegant steakhouse with a darker aesthetic and thoughtfully curated spaces including a stylish main dining room and lounge. Music features a live DJ that enhances the atmosphere without overpowering conversation. Exceptional cocktails and excellent steak define the dining experience.

An extensive and excellent selection of wines suits many palates. Staff recommendations pair well with dishes like steak, enhancing the meal.

Fine dining here stands out with unique plating and fun presentations like tiramisu caviar. The experience shows great attention to detail throughout.

People are saying

"The steak here is seasoned and charred beautifully."

"I thought the wine list here was the best in town."

"The steaks here are superb, cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

Street parking is available, but valet service is also offered.

3

The restaurant has a full menu available at the bar.

25
Kyōten image 1
Sushi restaurant

Private, intimate space centers on fresh, rare fish cuts and chef-led explanations that create a convivial, dinner party vibe. Bare walls and casual decor set a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where the focus stays on the food and interaction.

Wine pairings complement dishes well and often stand out as stellar. However, the quantity of wine served per person can be limited, sometimes just one glass each.

Dishes feature unique ingredients not common in many sushi spots. Every plate offers a seasonal and mouth watering experience with high quality components.

People are saying

"The seafood here is the freshest I've ever had."

"Chef Otto is so engaging, explaining his unexpected food choices."

"The wine here is unlike any other experience I had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The omakase experience lasts about three hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect to pay around $490 plus tax for a Friday or weekend meal.

26
Charlie Martin's image 1

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.

Wine pairing enhances the food noticeably. Requests for wines not on the menu get prompt delivery. Both cocktails and wine show careful selection and quality.

Burgers come with unique flavor and freshness that stand out. The spot offers unique cocktails and a speakeasy vibe that adds to the experience.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"The staff here is so attentive and genuinely helpful."

"The wine here is delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

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