Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Lake View East's best

Chill bars

A low-key bar is the only place to go when the goal is to sit back and let the night unfold without pressure.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
George Street Pub image 1
George Street Pub image 2
George Street Pub image 3
View all

Spacious pub with a dog-friendly patio featuring multiple TVs for watching games outdoors. Atmosphere feels chill and nostalgic, reminiscent of Chicago a decade ago, with a loud TV volume that can make conversation difficult. The space combines clean, comfortable seating with a casual, neighborhood vibe.

Cozy vintage tavern vibe sets a relaxed tone with a chill beer garden. The environment stays casual and fun, echoing a classic Chicago feel from a decade ago.

A cozy vintage tavern vibe meets a chill beer garden with a lovely patio and variety of draft beers. Excellent service and great pours complement good bar food and plenty of spots to watch sports.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and tasty."

"The bartenders and waiters here are the nicest and friendliest people."

"It's a chill place with a cozy vintage tavern vibe."

Good to know

1

Trivia night is held at 8pm every Wednesday.

2

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

3

The pub is dog friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

02
Parrots Bar & Grill image 1

Nautical and bird-themed bar with separate rooms offers a laid-back vibe and free pool and darts for games. Warm, inviting atmosphere attracts a chill crowd enjoying casual conversation and affordable drinks. Decor blends tiki and dive bar styles, creating a unique, homey feel.

Energy stays fun and chill with bartenders who keep the vibe relaxed. Everyone feels easygoing, making it a solid spot for a casual hangout with friends.

Warm and inviting with a home feeling atmosphere, this bar offers affordable prices and top notch food. A game room with free pool and darts adds to the dive bar vibe.

People are saying

"You can't get a better smash burger in the neighborhood."

"It's a classic dive bar with that perfect low-key energy."

"The bartenders and crowd here are so chill."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens weekly with drink specials.

2

The bar offers daily specials on food and drinks.

3

Prices for drinks are around $4.50 each.

03
Shakers on Clark image 1

Dive bar with cozy basement vibe offers karaoke and darts alongside a self-serve popcorn machine. Loud music creates an energetic atmosphere that draws a diverse crowd for fun conversations and socializing. Seating near the front supports people watching in a friendly neighborhood setting.

A chill atmosphere with music at a decent volume creates a relaxed vibe. The wide mocktail menu and Drink Passport options offer fun choices to unwind and connect with others.

A super chill spot with a wide mocktail menu and many drink choices. Known for cozy karaoke and fun conversations, it draws a crowd that keeps coming back.

People are saying

"The karaoke here is so fun and the crowd is always great."

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

"The karaoke at this bar is always so fun."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every night, starting at 9pm.

2

There is a one drink minimum per person during karaoke.

3

Drink prices are on the higher end compared to nearby bars.

04
Underground Lounge image 1

Underground space with moody lighting and phenomenal acoustics creates a chill vibe suited for live music and local shows. Small size offers comfortable seating and a pool table area, making it a cozy spot to relax and hear conversations clearly despite occasional loudness.

A chill vibe sets the tone with a pool table area adding to the relaxed atmosphere. It works well for a low-key night out.

A cool basement bar with a lively atmosphere and live music that is not overpowering. It has a pool table and private bathrooms, making it a solid spot to enjoy bands and good service.

People are saying

"It's a cool basement bar with live music and a great vibe."

"I loved the live music at this bar."

"It's a great spot to chill with a cool underground vibe."

Good to know

1

There is a cover charge for entry, so bring cash.

2

Ear plugs are recommended due to the loud music.

3

The venue has only one bathroom, which can get crowded.

05
Wrigleyville North image 1

Classic neighborhood bar with friendly vibes and a dog-friendly atmosphere including toys and treats. Music plays at a perfect volume and an outdoor patio extends the welcoming space. It feels safe and relaxed, attracting locals who enjoy a chill spot away from tourist crowds.

Bartenders here are very chill and awesome, making it a great spot to unwind. The vibe encourages easy chatting with neighbors.

Full selection of drinks fills the bar. Regulars get invited to special open bar events. Bathrooms rank as the cleanest in Chicago.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar with classic Chicago vibes."

"It's so dog friendly, there are almost as many dogs as people."

"It's a great place to chill and feel like a local."

Good to know

1

Wrigleyville North is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday with a fun host and a lively atmosphere.

3

On Sundays during Bears games, the bar offers free chili to patrons.

06
The Rabbit Hole Wrigley image 1

Karaoke bar with nightly karaoke and giant Jenga creates a chill and fun vibe. Bartenders join in with kazoos, adding to the friendly atmosphere. Noise stays moderate, making it a cool spot for casual group outings.

The bar keeps a chill vibe even during karaoke, making it a cool spot to relax and have fun.

A chill and cool vibe sets the tone with friendly people and a great bartender. The bar features giant jenga and switches to nightly karaoke, creating a fun and casual American pub atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are great singers and join in on karaoke."

"It's a fun bar with a chill vibe and friendly people."

"The vibe here is so chill and cool during karaoke."

Good to know

1

Karaoke sign-up ends at 12:45am, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Trivia night is a popular event, typically held on Wednesdays at 8pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with a mix of trivia, comedy, and karaoke.

07
Friar Tuck image 1

Cozy dive bar with a neighborhood-style vibe and historic charm featuring 1950s cash registers. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, attracting an easygoing crowd that fills up by late evening. Offers free popcorn and a jukebox, creating a casual spot for hanging out or bar crawls.

Easygoing crowd and casual vibe make it great for a chill night out. Bartenders mix quick service with friendly chit chat, and karaoke adds a relaxed touch.

Cozy vibe with friendly bartenders creates a welcoming atmosphere. Drinks come at reasonable prices, and outside food is allowed, adding to the relaxed feel of this historic dive bar.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and remember your name."

"I found the drinks here to be cheap."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel right at home."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night is every Tuesday, attracting a younger crowd.

2

Trivia happens on Wednesdays at 8pm with a lively host.

3

Seating fills up quickly on weekends, so arrive early.

08
Mordecai image 1
Brasserie

Small brasserie with mid-century modern decor offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere without loud music. Guests enjoy creative cocktails and highly praised burgers and pasta. Open window booths provide a gentle breeze and views of nearby ice skating.

A quiet atmosphere defines the spot with no music or loud noises. It invites you to sit, eat, and just chill without distractions.

Cocktail bar offers a standout spot with drinks crafted by Isidro. Bartenders acknowledge guests, creating a welcoming vibe in this gastropub setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and tasty."

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

"The cocktails here are super on point and next level."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with good value on drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are helpful but not required, especially on game nights.

3

Mordecai offers vegetarian options, but no specific vegan menu.

09
Derno's image 1
Bar & grill

Basement setting in an old Chicago home creates a low-key, chill atmosphere with tons of TVs adding to the vibe. Late-night crowd includes a mix of people enjoying crispy Buffalo wings and traditional Chicago tavern-style pizza. The bar stays lively until 4am, making it a solid spot for late-night drinks and socializing.

A basement setting in an old school Chicago home creates a relaxed vibe. The atmosphere stays consistently chill throughout.

Lively dive bar stays busy late into the night with a solid selection of late-night drinks and bar food. Generous tipping earns royal treatment from the staff, making it a classic neighborhood spot.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the pizza and wings, was fantastic."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool."

"I found a great chill vibe in this old school basement."

Good to know

1

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

2

Derno's is a 4am bar, attracting a late-night crowd on weekends.

3

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

10
ROCKS lakeview image 1

Large bar with many TVs creates a lively, sports bar atmosphere that gets noisy during peak hours. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a cozy space for socializing. Known for top-notch burgers and a variety of well-crafted drinks.

A chill vibe makes it a great spot to hang out casually. It suits a relaxed night with friends for grabbing a bite and a drink.

A large beer selection and many TVs showing various sports create a lively bar atmosphere. The bar feels like a neighborhood tavern with better than average bar food, including fries that stand out.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be amazing and delicious."

"The bartenders here are awesome and foster a great social atmosphere."

"It's a chill place with a laid-back, neighborhood vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 6pm Monday through Friday with great deals.

2

Bingo is hosted on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month.

3

The menu changes often, with vegan options clearly labeled.

11
Alma image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail lounge with iconic Wrigley Field views and a chic, stylish decor featuring comfortable seating and a cozy fireplace. Atmosphere shifts from swanky and chill during the day to clubby with DJs at night, creating a lively vibe with loud music. Offers craft cocktails and games like pool, attracting social groups looking for a stylish spot to gather.

Swanky and chill vibes create a relaxed atmosphere. It offers a cool spot to unwind and enjoy life.

Cocktail lounge offers a cozy vibe with a beautiful bar setup. Bar food is upscale and elevated, fitting for casual hangouts or holiday parties.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and unique."

"I found the bar to be a beautiful cocktail lounge with a killer view."

"It's a swanky and chill vibe here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups of six or fewer for a comfortable experience.

2

Valet parking is available for $8.

3

Expect high prices, with cocktails averaging $22 each.

12
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Huge space with large TVs creates a chill vibe perfect for hanging out with friends. The atmosphere stays casual and relaxed throughout.

Massive bar space features oak detailing and suits large events or watch parties. The bartender offers excellent beer flights, and the pub burger pairs well with drinks.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

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

"It's a chill spot to hang out with friends."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

13
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop with weed-themed decor and mural artwork creates a chill, cozy atmosphere. Loud music and noise level often reach concert-like volume, making conversation difficult. Bar area offers affordable beers and occasional cannabis events, adding to the lively vibe.

Very chill vibes fill the space. The atmosphere stays consistently relaxed and easygoing.

Quick service keeps the bar lively while maintaining a restaurant feel. Comfortable bar seats add to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were the best I ever had."

"The vibe here is super chill with cool murals."

"The service at the bar was quick and excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

2

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

3

The venue hosts trivia nights every Wednesday at 7pm.

14
Replay Lincoln Park image 1

Bar combines retro arcade games and rotating themed pop-ups for a lively, nostalgic vibe. Atmosphere blends club energy with casual gaming, attracting fans of classic pinball and video games. Attention to detail in decor and themed cocktails creates a unique, immersive experience.

Casual and lively atmosphere creates a chill vibe perfect for unwinding. Tuesday nights feel especially relaxed, making it easy to have fun and enjoy a drink while reliving childhood memories.

An arcade bar with well-maintained games and a full service bar creates a fun, retro vibe. Themed pop-up bars like SpongeBob, Always Sunny, and Taylor Swift rotate regularly, offering immersive, detailed experiences.

People are saying

"The arcade games here are free and totally a blast."

"This bar has a ton of fun, free arcade games."

"The arcade games here are mostly free to play."

Good to know

1

Themed events, like Taylor Swift night, happen regularly and are very popular.

2

Most arcade games are free to play while you are drinking.

3

Bring cash for arcade games as some machines may not accept cards.

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.

Upscale boho vibe blends with casual coffee and bakery elements. Dining feels casual, upscale, and unpretentious throughout.

A good bar seating area suits solo diners well. The bar sits at the front, but the layout slows waiter efficiency due to the kitchen at the back and ticketing in the middle or rear.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"The bar staff here are so friendly and happy to be part of the team."

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
Half Shell image 1
Seafood restaurant

Underground seafood spot with old-school charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere. Small bar and dining area complement an authentic fish shack style with an outdoor patio lively during warm days. The vibe suits casual meals and business talks alike.

Cozy and inviting atmosphere creates a comfy and chill vibe. Friendly people at the bar add to the casual and comfortable feel with a Wisonsin touch.

Cold beer and king crab legs stand out at this dive bar. Anthony at the bar adds to the great atmosphere with good music and friendly service.

People are saying

"The grilled oysters here were excellent."

"I thought the crab legs at this seafood bar were the best I've ever had."

"The seafood here is fresh and flavorful, making for a really chill meal."

Good to know

1

Half Shell is a cash-only establishment; bring cash to pay.

2

Happy hour features $1 oysters, making it a great time to visit.

3

There is no waiting area, so arrive early to secure a table.

17
3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant) image 1

Small, intimate seafood spot with quaint fish shop decor and patio seating. Atmosphere feels laid-back and fun, with a cool, quiet vibe enhanced by nearby train sounds. Offers fresh oysters and seafood in a casual setting.

A small, super casual seafood joint offers a perfectly light and chill vibe. The spot serves casual yet tasty seafood paired with good taps and cocktails.

Cozy side bar with a nice bar area. Drinks can be overpriced and sometimes take a long time to arrive, with service issues reported.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh and amazingly flavorful."

"It's a great spot for a casual, tasty seafood meal."

"The drinks at the bar were so refreshing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations can only be made via OpenTable.

2

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 4 to 7 pm with great deals.

3

Draft beers cost $8 during happy hour and include two oysters.

18
Tac Quick image 1
Thai restaurant

Loud music fills a colorful, cozy space with an open-air patio and movie posters adding unique charm. The vibe stays chill and lively, blending warmth with a fun atmosphere. Spacious and clean, it offers a relaxed setting distinct from typical Thai spots.

Atmosphere feels very laid-back with a pleasant, open-air vibe. Staff stays attentive while keeping things chill.

Offers a good bar selection with a variety of drinks. Spending about $60 covers drinks for two people.

People are saying

"The Pad Thai here is amazing and has the best taste."

"The lunch specials here are a really good deal."

"I'd go here just to drink at the bar."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and it's usually easy to get a table.

2

The $9 lunch special offers good value for money.

3

Street parking is available nearby for easy access.

19
Cesar's Killer Margaritas - Broadway image 1

Mexican restaurant offers lively atmosphere with plenty of indoor seating and a shaded outdoor patio. The space features a unique interior layout with multiple sections and views overlooking Broadway. Music tends to be loud, creating a noisy environment that energizes the crowd.

A chill vibe sets the tone here, making it a solid spot for casual Mexican dining. The environment stays relaxed, fitting for a laid-back dinner or a casual weekday visit.

Bartenders like Juan and Alyssa provide friendly service and engage well with guests. The manager Adam stays attentive to the bar area, ensuring good care for everyone sitting there.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, especially the chicken birria."

"The bar staff, especially Juan, are incredibly sweet and personable."

"Our server Sarah was so attentive and funny, it made the whole experience feel chill."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features one flavor of margarita at half price.

2

Miss Foozie bingo event occurs the first Thursday of every month.

3

A 3% surcharge applies for credit card payments.

20
House of Hookah image 1
Hookah bar

Small hookah bar with Middle East decor offers a laid-back, chill vibe energized by live DJ music mixing R&B and hip hop. Seating includes floor options with carpet, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped atmosphere. Late hours and legal cannabis hookah options add a unique twist to the experience.

Super chill vibe welcomes you right away with good music and excellent hookah service. The spot feels relaxed yet vibey, perfect for hanging out with friends.

A hookah bar with a comfortable environment stands out here. A cover charge applies, but the policy is not explained before entry.

People are saying

"It's a chill spot with good music and vibes."

"The hookah here is smooth, affordable, and lasts long."

"The hookah here is smooth, with great flavor options."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own bottle; it's BYOB and THC-friendly.

2

There is a $20 cover charge at the door.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait to get in during peak hours.

21
Big City Tap image 1

Spacious bar with a dance floor, pool table, and jukebox creates a lively setting. Music ranges from chill to energetic with a DJ spinning, encouraging dancing and socializing. Late nights bring a fun crowd enjoying games and cold drinks in a sports-friendly atmosphere.

Vibe stays very chill even when it gets busier. Great spot to grab a drink and hang out late with people you care about.

Attentive service stands out even when the bar is packed. The dive bar atmosphere feels authentic despite a slightly sketchy vibe. It stays open late after other bars close, and door staff carefully check IDs for entry.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and reasonably priced."

"The bartenders here are amazing and super cool."

"It's a pretty chill vibe, especially on a weeknight."

Good to know

1

Half off food is available on Mondays before 9pm.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $2 tacos all day.

3

The bar stays open late, even after other bars close.

Discover more

Lake View East, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...