Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the Loop

Nightlife bars

You want a drink that keeps the night going.

Based on 530 Opinions
+527
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Bar Sotto image 1
Bar Sotto image 2
Bar Sotto image 3
View all

Hidden underground bar with soft red glow and jazzy atmosphere creates an intimate, cozy vibe. Space feels mysterious and character-rich, attracting an upbeat crowd for fun nights out or romantic dates. Creative cocktails and unique design details add to its distinct charm.

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.

A basement lounge offers dark disco vibes with a romantic, rustic atmosphere. The space feels like a speakeasy with touches of European nightlife and serves craft cocktails, Italian beer, and wine.

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."

"The craft cocktails and shareable bites here are excellent."

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.

02
Jazz Showcase image 1
Jazz club

Intimate jazz club with historic dรฉcor and excellent acoustics creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Live performances feature talented musicians playing in a setting that honors jazz legends. Dim lighting and comfortable seating offer a balanced sound experience ideal for soaking 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.

Classic jazz club vibe with top flight musicians performing in an intimate venue. Offers a quintessential Chicago jazz experience with a strong, traditional program.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great live jazz performances here."

"The jazz club's atmosphere is intimate and historic."

"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.

03
Adamus Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Circular bar anchors a stylish, comfortable lounge with eclectic furniture and spacious seating that supports quiet conversation. Atmosphere stays chill but classy with a slow, relaxed pace. Cocktail offerings stand out with well-crafted drinks amid a cozy, clean setting.

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.

A chill but classy vibe defines the lounge, with a fancy look and plenty of seating. Cocktails come at a pricy rate, and happy hour runs until 7, offering a decent option for a relaxed evening.

People are saying

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

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

"The drinks here are on point, and the truffle fries are next level."

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.

04
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf facility offers top-notch simulators and luxury seating in a modern, upscale setting. Atmosphere stays chill and lively, with plenty of space and a welcoming vibe. Amenities include a full bar, numerous TVs, and social areas like a pool table and putting green.

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.

Mellow atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxed night out. Easy-to-use app handles reservations and club storage. Clubs come in good condition with Callaways for women and expert recommendations add to the experience.

People are saying

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

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

"The staff here makes the nightlife feel so friendly and welcoming."

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.

05
University Club of Chicago image 1

Building showcases early 20th century architecture with historic character and beautiful views. Atmosphere blends classy, elegant charm with modern exclusivity, creating a harmonious and inviting setting. Amenities include squash courts, gym, library, and bar, supporting both relaxation and active pursuits.

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.

First-class amenities, restaurants, and bars create a polished nightlife experience. Events like boxing matches offer lively entertainment, though the vibe feels more corporate than communal.

People are saying

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

"I found the University Club of Chicago to be a great place."

"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.

06
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1

Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

A friendly bartender creates a welcoming vibe behind the bar. This spot stands out as a hidden gem for those avoiding traditional clubs and bars.

Colored lights create a club vibe that feels lively yet relaxed. The spot blends lounge atmosphere with a hidden gem appeal for those avoiding typical bars and clubs.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

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

"It's got a cool club vibe with colored lights."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

07
Copper Club image 1
Restaurant

Stylish escape inside an office building lobby offers a cozy setting with wide chairs and a large bar. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and calm to lively and loud as the evening progresses. Known for affordable meals and a strong whiskey selection, it attracts 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.

Stylish escape inside an office building lobby offers a peaceful atmosphere and phenomenal appetizers. Staff delivers kind and attentive service alongside delicious cocktails.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and delicious."

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

"The nightlife here is amazing, the bartenders are so friendly."

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.

08
Era Social Club image 1
Night club

Urban club with cool lighting and lively atmosphere hosts DJs playing hip hop hits geared toward millennials. Crowd is diverse and inclusive, creating a fun vibe where people come to celebrate and enjoy music all night. Rooftop area adds an extra dimension to the overall experience.

Bar offers good drinks and music with attentive bar and wait staff. No seating is available, and sections require a high minimum spend.

Offers an upscale club experience with great music and a DJ. The vibe is LGBTQIA-community friendly and welcoming, with respectful staff and strong security. Bottle service and cocktails add to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bottle service girls here provide excellent, attentive care."

"The nightlife service here is amazing, with friendly and fast staff."

"The bar's vibe was always right, and I enjoyed the drinks and music."

Good to know

1

Entry is $100, but free tickets are available before 11pm.

2

Social Saturdays are a popular event at the club.

3

Parking can be risky; consider using Uber instead.

09
LH Rooftop image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop bar offers unparalleled city views including river and Gothic architecture. Atmosphere is lively with loud music, making conversation difficult. Outdoor space features igloos and fire pits, with indoor area hosting a live DJ to maintain energy.

Busy bar with friendly bartenders creates a welcoming atmosphere. The rooftop setting offers a great environment and views while staff remain accommodating and kind even during peak times.

Rooftop views stand out with both indoor bar and outdoor lounge areas. The vibe shifts to a club atmosphere when the bar fills up, often making seating scarce before last call.

People are saying

"The rooftop city views are stunning and beautiful."

"The rooftop bar has stunning city views."

"The nightlife view from the rooftop is breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table at LH Rooftop due to limited space.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Bring your ID as it is required for entry; no photos accepted.

Discover more

Chicago Loop, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...