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Local picks

Cocktails and beer in the Loop

Choosing between a cocktail and a beer is a matter of the mood you want to set. It is about finding the right glass to hold while the evening unfolds.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated April 2026
01
Ayayay - Mexican Eatery image 1
Ayayay - Mexican Eatery image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Urban, modern space with Tulum-inspired decor and stunning interior architecture creates an authentic Mexican canteen vibe. Great music energizes the atmosphere, while seating ranges from stools at larger tables to intimate spots for two. The setting feels like a slice of Mexico City with a lively, welcoming energy.

Delicious cocktails stand out with a mix of flavors that complement the food well. Drinks come at a reasonable price, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.

In house brewed beer features a distinctive lager under their own label. Selection includes real Mexican beers not widely available in the US and local brews recommended by staff.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

"I loved their crisp, in-house brewed beer."

"I tried the best margarita I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 6 pm.

2

$3 Taco Tuesdays offer great value for visitors.

3

Wednesday features a special margarita deal.

02
Momento Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space features vibrant Mexican-inspired decor with colorful lights and intricate metalwork. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, enhanced by live mariachi music and reggaeton beats. Unique self-serve tequila and mezcal stations invite guests to sample drinks at their own pace.

Cocktails come in a diverse range with strong flavors and careful preparation. The Carajillo stands out for espresso martini fans, and bartenders serve drinks with a friendly smile.

A self-serve wall offers a selection of Mexican beer and tequila. It's easy to grab a beer alongside tacos before a flight.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"Sebastian made really good cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere."

"You can pour your own beer, tequila, and mezcal."

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.

03
Monk's Pub image 1

Classic pub with dark wood and exposed brick creates a cozy, old-world atmosphere filled with Belgian beer memorabilia and vintage decor. The space feels packed and lively, offering a laid-back vibe ideal for socializing. Music leans toward garage rock, punk, and blues, enhancing the authentic pub experience.

Manhattan cocktails here beat those in NYC. The Rum Punch canned cocktail stands out and packs a punch. Beer and cocktail selections are excellent and the overall cocktails are good.

A wide selection of Belgian beers and local options fills the taps, including the Breckenridge Irish Stout. Walls display beer and spirit memorabilia, adding to the warm and cozy vibe.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is extensive and solid."

"The food here was amazing and great."

"You have to try the cocktails; the Manhattan is better than anything I've had in NYC."

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.

04
Bar Sotto image 1

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.

Cocktails here show a creative spin with options like a fruity fernet and an espresso martini with Parmesan. Signature drinks include the creamy, salty Reggiano and the gin-based Purple Monster, all crafted with a speakeasy vibe and a jazzy atmosphere.

Craft cocktails come with a curated selection of Italian beer and wine. The cocoa rich dry stout stands out among the cold beer options. A wide variety of wines exists but beer holds its own here.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the espresso martini with Parmesan; it's intriguing."

"I found the Italian beer here delightful."

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.

05
The Game Room image 1

Bar combines vintage decor with modern games like pool, shuffleboard, and skeeball. Atmosphere varies from relaxed upscale to loud and sketchy depending on the crowd. Large space offers ample seating and diverse activities throughout.

Specialty cocktails crafted with care stand out here. Classic drinks come well made, making it a solid spot for a cocktail.

A vast beer selection is available on tap, with good quality brews served alongside games. The rooftop bar adds a fun vibe for enjoying drinks and hanging out.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with a lively vibe and great games."

"The cocktails here have a cool, historic vibe."

"The beer selection here is vast and good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure space availability.

2

The venue has a minimum food and beverage requirement for private events.

3

Expect a surcharge if you exceed the agreed-upon food and beverage minimum.

06
Hoyt's Chicago image 1
American restaurant

Space centers around a bar in the middle with seated dining around it and a small outdoor patio. Atmosphere stays cozy and subdued, with quiet music and a mix of families and solo diners. Views of the city add to the modern yet inviting vibe.

Expertly crafted cocktails show attention to detail and deep knowledge of drinks. Unique options like The Hancock with smoked pineapple and The Botanic Gardens with hibiscus tea stand out.

Great selection of local draft beers pairs well with meals. Beer flights come with some confusion as all samples can be the same and staff may not identify them clearly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"Paul's expertly crafted cocktails made me feel so welcome."

"The beer here is great and goes so well with the meal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant is conveniently located within the Royal Sonesta hotel.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait for food pickup after ordering.

07
Millennium Hall Restaurant image 1

Architecture features Frank Gehry's dancing metal design with indoor and outdoor seating offering views of the ice rink and cityscape. Atmosphere ranges from festive and chill to lively with large projection TVs showing sports. Popular for group outings and casual dining with a bar-focused vibe.

Bartenders craft custom cocktails like curaรงao drinks tailored to outfits. Signature cocktails cost about $15 and come with well mixed flavors served with kindness.

Beers come in Kolsch and Helles varieties, both served at a perfect temperature. The selection includes double clutch beers on tap and a unique Piper beer blending Sam Adam's microwave brew.

People are saying

"Chef David's pizza making class was so fun and awesome."

"I found the beers here to be excellent and tasty."

"The drinks here are mixed with kindness and professionalism."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for pizza-making courses and private events.

2

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

3

Karaoke night starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

08
Reserv image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop bar offers breathtaking views and a cozy lounge creates an intimate setting. Music plays loudly with a live DJ during brunch, setting a lively atmosphere that suits both unwinding and starting a night out.

A signature cocktail is crafted when choices stall. The mixologist explains the cocktail list clearly. The spot feels safe and comfortable to unwind with drinks and music.

Beers are great and served alongside appetizers. Seating can take about 20 minutes. Watch the bill for extra beers added that were not ordered or consumed.

People are saying

"It's packed for live sports, especially the Bears games."

"You can unwind over a cocktail in this cozy, intimate lounge."

"I thought the beers were great."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens regularly, providing a fun atmosphere for guests.

2

Street parking is available, along with nearby garages for convenience.

3

The steak skillet costs $14, offering great value for a meal.

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