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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the Chicago Loop

Bars

A bar that stands on its own as a local fixture rather than just a place to kill time between appointments.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Legato Lounge image 1
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American restaurant

Art deco lobby creates a stylish, cozy atmosphere with a retro-modern vibe. Well-crafted signature cocktails shine in a spacious bar area. Low music sets a chill, classy energy perfect for unwinding or casual chats.

Stylish and cozy with a roaring 20s inspired vibe, this bar offers well-crafted cocktails and a friendly, attentive staff. The menu has a nice variety and the seating area is spacious and comfortable.

People are saying

"Their signature cocktails are inventive and delicious."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

"The cocktails here are art, and the bartenders really know their stuff."

Good to know

1

The bar is open every day from 4 pm to 11 pm.

2

The restroom is spotlessly clean.

3

The menu has a nice variety without being overwhelming.

02
Kasey's Tavern image 1

Classic dive bar with extensive beer selection including rare taps and crispy wings. Friendly vibe draws a lively local crowd enjoying rock music from a jukebox. Outdoor seating and food-friendly policy add to the relaxed, no-frills atmosphere.

Classic neighborhood pub vibe with no frills atmosphere and a lively local crowd. Offers excellent service, a solid selection of beers on tap including Guinness and craft options, and crispy, saucy chicken wings.

People are saying

"They have a great beer selection with tons of options."

"It's a chill, no-frills spot to catch a game and hear your friends."

"This bar has a great selection of beers and spirits."

Good to know

1

Contactless pay isn't available at Kasey's Tavern.

2

Customers can bring in outside food if they prefer.

3

Kasey's Tavern has several gluten-free options, including ciders and beers.

03
Bar Sotto image 1

Hidden underground bar glows with soft red light and a jazzy atmosphere that feels intimate and cozy. Expertly crafted cocktails and tasty snacks pair well with friendly staff, making it perfect for fun nights or romantic dates.

A basement bar with dark disco vibes offers expertly crafted cocktails and tasty bar snacks. Friendly, knowledgeable staff create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.

People are saying

"The bar staff here feels like family and makes you feel right at home."

"The cacio e pepe arancini were flavorful and a must-try."

"I loved the dark, moody atmosphere of the lounge."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and bites after work.

2

The bar features a rotating menu of small shareable plates and pasta.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy evenings, especially weekends.

04
Monk's Pub image 1

Classic pub with Belgian beer memorabilia and vintage decor offers a cozy, European tavern feel. Enjoy a lively vibe with garage rock and blues music while savoring the Monkburger and Chicago Poutine. Staff are friendly, making it great for socializing.

Offers an outstanding beer selection with many Belgian and local options. The bar features a cozy, European tavern feel with vintage books, dark wood, and barrels. Staff are wonderful and the food includes notable items like the Monkburger and Chicago Poutine.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is extensive and solid."

"The food here was amazing and great."

"The bar's beer selection is extensive and diverse."

Good to know

1

Happy hour gets crowded, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Reservations are not accepted after 6pm, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is available under the elevated tracks on Lake Street.

05
Momento Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vibrant Mexican decor and live mariachi music create a lively vibe. Guests enjoy self-serve tequila stations for a unique tasting experience. Attentive staff ensure personalized bar service that keeps the energy fun and engaging.

Sebastian's attentive service stands out at the bar. Staff regularly check in, making the experience feel more personal and engaging.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The service for dinner here is wonderful, especially from Sebastian and Zoe."

"Sebastian at the bar made the best micheladas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Friday night features live Mariachi performances starting at 8pm.

3

The venue plans to host live DJ performances in the future.

06
Sky Ride Tap image 1

Long bar with classic dive bar vibe and wood panel walls offers a cozy spot under elevated train tracks. Neon signs and Blackhawks paraphernalia add local charm. Cash-only policy and reasonable prices make it perfect for quick drinks and casual hangs.

Classic dive bar vibe shines with a curved bar under the L tracks and an old-school atmosphere. Cash-only policy keeps it simple for lunch beers and after work drinks.

People are saying

"This classic Chicago dive bar has a great old-school vibe for beer."

"This dive bar only accepts cash, so come prepared."

"It's a classic dive bar with an old-school Chicago vibe."

Good to know

1

Sky Ride Tap accepts only cash, so come prepared.

2

There is no food menu; only chips and pretzels are available.

3

Beers can be purchased for to-go consumption.

07
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf shines with top-notch simulators and a modern, upscale setting. Bar offers exceptional quality drinks in a spacious, pleasant area perfect for socializing. Atmosphere stays lively yet chill, blending sport and relaxation seamlessly.

Spacious and pleasant main bar area invites long chats and drinks. Food and drinks stand out with exceptional quality and a cool vibe for hanging out.

People are saying

"The golf staff here are genuinely fun and know how to treat you right."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The bar staff here is so welcoming and friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm with great food and drink deals.

2

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

The all-you-can-eat wings cost $5 during happy hour.

08
University Club of Chicago image 1

Building blends early 20th century architecture with modern exclusivity, offering a classy and elegant atmosphere. Guests enjoy a first-class bar with great views and a connected game room. Amenities like squash courts and a library support both active and relaxing experiences.

Offers a very nice bar with a great view and a bar area connected to a game room. Amenities include first-class bars alongside restaurants and other facilities.

People are saying

"The views of Lake Michigan from the club are great."

"This historic building is fascinating and stunning."

"The bar's historic character combines with modern ambience."

Good to know

1

The club hosts various events, including weddings and corporate gatherings.

2

Expect high costs for events, with weddings starting around $50,000.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during peak hours.

09
Grill on 21 image 1
Restaurant

Uptown 21 offers an art deco vibe with live jazz that sets a lively mood. Booths provide comfortable seating for groups. Friendly bartenders like Mary and Ana deliver warm service and know the menu well.

Warm and welcoming service stands out with Mary and Ana making guests feel at home. The bar staff is friendly and attentive, showing clear enjoyment in their work and deep menu knowledge.

People are saying

"The food here tasted lovely and was outstanding."

"The steak here is cooked to perfection, tender and juicy."

"The bar staff's service is so warm and welcoming, you'll feel right at home."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances happen every Friday and Saturday evening.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to bills for parties of two.

3

Sourdough bread is often out of stock, so consider alternatives.

10
O'Neil's on Wells image 1

Old-school Irish bar offers a big atmosphere with a lively crowd of union workers and suits. Bagpipe players add unique charm while multiple TVs show international sports. An indoor pizza shop and outdoor seating enhance the experience.

Old-school Chicago bar vibe fills the space with a big atmosphere. Bagpipe players perform atop the bar while a mix of union workers and suit types gather. The bar shows international sports and includes a pizza shop inside.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are really nice and friendly."

"The pizza here has a crispy crust and great sauce."

"It's an awesome place to watch live sports and cheer with the fans."

Good to know

1

Expect drink prices to be high, with a PBR costing $6.50 and a well drink costing $10.50.

2

Happy hour offers great specials during the week.

3

The bar is a two-minute walk from the nearest hotel.

11
Vitalogy on Dearborn image 1

Small, intimate bar offers a stylish lounge vibe with craft cocktails made with visible artistry. Live music from emerging bands adds to the eclectic atmosphere. Space feels LGBTQ+ friendly, welcoming a diverse crowd for drinks and small bites.

Stylish lounge vibe sets this bar apart from typical spots. Signature cocktails crafted with visible artistry create a high quality drinking experience in a true neighborhood bar setting.

People are saying

"I loved their creative cocktails; they were delicious."

"I thought the burger was the best I had ever eaten."

"The cocktails here are delicious and distinctive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with special pricing on drinks and appetizers.

2

Enjoy a burger and beer deal for $20 during happy hour.

3

Live jazz music is featured on Saturday nights, starting at 9 PM.

12
Adams Street Brewery image 1

Wood-paneled sports bar features a large warm wood bar with German styled drafts and great service. Polka music and live shows create a German Beer Hall feel while TVs provide casual entertainment. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed afternoons to lively evenings.

A large, warm wood bar creates a welcoming atmosphere with lots of draught beer selections including German styled drafts. The bar offers great service and full access to the historic restaurant next door.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great German-style beers here."

"It's a cozy brewery with a laid-back vibe."

"This bar has a great beer selection with many German styles."

Good to know

1

Expect busy times during holidays; reservations are not required.

2

Pickpocketing incidents have been reported, so keep personal items secure.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for purchases.

13
Franklin Tap image 1
Restaurant

Expansive layout with dog-friendly patio and many high-top tables creates a relaxed vibe. Over 100 beers on tap and perfect pours of spirits attract a lively afterwork crowd. Kind servers and delicious pub fare make it a great spot to hang out.

Servers are kind and let people use the spot like a bar while waiting. It offers a huge selection of taps, perfect pours of spirits, and delicious pub fare with great service.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, tasty, and solid."

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"The bar food here is great, especially the killer burgers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day with great deals on drinks.

2

Weekend brunch is available with special menu items.

3

Daily drink specials make it easy to unwind after work.

14
Bistro Monadnock image 1
French restaurant

Historic building hosts a French bistro with European charm and elegant design. Skilled bartenders serve standout cocktails and wines at fair prices. Live jazz music adds to the cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for a refined night out.

Cozy atmosphere with skilled bartenders crafting drinks. Offers wines by the glass and bottle at reasonable prices compared to other spots.

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 bartenders here are fantastic and have so much imagination."

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.

15
Adamus Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Circular bar shines with its slick design and well-stocked selection. Lounge offers eclectic furniture and spacious seating for quiet chats. Cocktails impress with well-crafted drinks in a chill, classy atmosphere.

Circular bar stands out with its slick design and is well stocked. Happy hour specials complement a chill but classy vibe with comfortable, eclectic furniture and plenty of seating.

People are saying

"The Night Lounge's drinks are on point, especially the Old Fashioned."

"The Day Lounge truffle fries are next level."

"The bartenders here really know how to mix a drink."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm with special drink prices.

2

The lounge is located just inside the hotel to the left.

3

They do not accept cash; only credit cards are accepted for payment.

16
Ceres Cafe image 1

Classic building with an art deco vibe sets a historic tone. Bar feels like Cheers, with Pilar creating a friendly atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed option alongside strong drinks and solid eats.

A classic Chicago bar with a beautiful bar and a vibe like Cheers where everybody knows your name. Pilar runs the bar with friendly professionalism, handling busy nights smoothly and making the experience comfortable and welcoming.

People are saying

"Pilar makes the bar feel like catching up with a friend."

"The Cafe's burgers are juicy with perfectly crispy fries."

"The drinks here are strong, especially the margaritas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 25% off drinks and appetizers.

2

Breakfast service ends at 10:30am; arrive early.

3

The cafe closes at 8pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

17
Bar Pendry Chicago image 1

Small bar offers period-inspired cocktails and dirty martinis with excellent service. Cozy fireplace and plush seating create a warm, relaxed vibe. Music stays low, perfect for afterwork drinks and quiet chats.

Interesting period-inspired cocktails and dirty martinis stand out at the bar. The excellent service and comfy couches create a cozy vibe, especially near the fireplace.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing; the staff is so friendly and attentive."

"The bar staff was so attentive and friendly."

"I thought the cocktails were the most amazing I had ever had."

Good to know

1

Bar Pendry Chicago can get packed during happy hour.

2

The bar's small size makes it not suitable for larger groups.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere in the evenings.

18
Copper Club image 1
Restaurant

Stylish escape inside an office lobby offers a cozy setting with wide chairs and a large bar. Atmosphere shifts from calm to lively as evening progresses, with an exceptional bartender Rodney serving a strong whiskey selection. Affordable meals attract those seeking good food and drinks after work.

A large bar with wide chairs creates a cozy setting. The bar is lively and a little loud, staffed by just two people including an exceptional bartender named Rodney.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and delicious."

"The sangria during happy hour was amazing, packed with fruit flavors."

"This bar is the best I've ever been to."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential for happy hour due to high demand.

2

Happy hour specials include discounted drinks and slider options.

3

Copper Club is only open on weekdays.

19
Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar image 1

Rotating carousel bar offers a unique drinking experience with a lively happy hour. Upscale ambiance and comfortable seating create a perfect spot for conversation. Live jazz duo adds lively atmosphere making it great for a night out.

A rotating carousel bar creates a fun and unique drinking experience. The bar offers a lively happy hour scene and a pre-theater menu that fits well for a night out before a show.

People are saying

"The Amish chicken at this Bar is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"The cocktails are creative and the bar looks just like a carnival carousel."

"It's a great dinner spot before a show at the Cadillac Theater."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy a $10 cocktail and oyster night with live jazz music.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Expect to spend around $60 per person for a meal with drinks and tip.

20
The Sterling Food Hall image 1

Open food hall offers varied cuisine like Indian and Mexican with ample seating. Bar opens after 2 pm with a casual vibe and Tuesday trivia adds fun. Atmosphere is loud and cozy, good for groups but hard for quiet talks.

A bar opens after 2 pm with a casual vibe. Trivia games happen on Tuesdays, adding a fun activity to the scene.

People are saying

"The food options here are vast and all were delicious."

"I found Lito's empanadas to be a hidden gem."

"I found the bar had amazing food options and many choices."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great discounts on drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Restrooms are accessible only with a purchase receipt for a code.

21
Staytion Market & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Chic and modern space offers a lively yet comfortable atmosphere with a full bar and TVs for games. Cocktails here stand out for their creative quality and come with fast, friendly service. Cozy lounge style blends with high-end comfort in a hotel lobby setting.

Cocktails here stand out for their creative quality and come with fast, friendly service. The bar offers a chic yet comfortable vibe, making it a solid spot for casual drinks or a bite.

People are saying

"The bar service was friendly and fast."

"It's chic and comfortable, with a high-end vibe."

"The American Food here, especially the chicken wings, is fantastic."

Good to know

1

Watch out for pickpocketing in the area around Staytion Market & Bar.

2

Staytion Market & Bar is a good spot for a casual meal in the Loop.

3

The restaurant is located inside a hotel, making it convenient for guests.

22
Chรขteau Carbide image 1

Rooftop bar shines with gorgeous sunset views and cozy couches. Friendly staff enhance the laid back atmosphere with heaters and blankets. Jazz and violin music add a relaxed vibe perfect for unwinding.

Rooftop bar offers cozy couches, art deco vibes, and awesome downtown views. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, creating a laid back atmosphere with lights, heaters, and blankets.

People are saying

"The city views from up here are really great."

"Alondra crafted the best mezcal cocktail I've ever had."

"The bar staff's service was attentive and professional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for booking a hut with a fireplace.

2

A $300 food and beverage minimum applies for booking a chateau.

3

The menu is limited, with no vegetarian options except olives and popcorn.

23
Jazz Showcase image 1
Jazz club

Intimate jazz club with historic dรฉcor offers a cozy vibe and excellent acoustics for live shows. Enjoy a solid drink selection at the second oldest jazz bar in the US. Dim lighting and comfy seats create a perfect spot to soak in pure jazz.

A cozy, authentic jazz bar with a long history as the second oldest in the US. The bar serves a solid selection of drinks at reasonable prices, and the staff adds to the memorable atmosphere.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great live jazz performances here."

"I enjoyed the excellent cocktails and draft beers."

"The bar's vibe is intimate and cozy."

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.

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