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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lake View East

Cool bars

Made for those who only spend their evenings in bars that have already established a reputation for being cool.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Lucky Dorr Patio & Tap image 1
Lucky Dorr Patio & Tap image 2
Lucky Dorr Patio & Tap image 3
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Patio bar next to Wrigley Field offers a relaxed, mellow vibe with a unique patio setup. Dog-friendly space attracts neighborhood dogs and beer lovers alike. Craft and local beers stand out as the best in Wrigleyville, paired well with warm pretzels.

Offers a hyperlocal craft beer selection with many Chicago-area drafts, including exclusive collaborative brews. Features options for gluten-free drinkers like ciders and a non-alcoholic beer brewed locally. Serves as a casual neighborhood spot to gather and watch sports.

Atmosphere feels laid-back and perfect for a few pre-game beers. The spot offers a great patio for people watching and chilling with friends.

People are saying

"They have a fantastic selection of craft beers."

"I loved the craft beer selection, especially the local brews."

"It's a cool spot for pre-game beers and people watching."

Good to know

1

Pups on the Patio happens every Thursday evening, making it a popular dog-friendly event.

2

Lucky Dorr is dog-friendly, allowing pets to join you on the patio.

3

The beer menu features local craft options, appealing to beer enthusiasts.

02
Barrel cheese & wine | cocktails | Event Space image 1

Speak-easy bar with dim lighting and comfortable lounge seating creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere ideal for quiet conversation. Upstairs event space offers a mingle-friendly setup with leather couches and high-top tables. Outdoor patio is dog friendly and opens to the sidewalk, blending indoor and street vibes.

Dim lighting and comfortable lounge seats create a relaxed vibe. A full service bar, loud speakers, and a pool table add to the atmosphere, which stays open late and stays quiet enough for talking.

Cozy, darker rooms create a cool vibe inside. Seats feel comfortable and the overall look is very cool.

People are saying

"I loved the wine selection, especially with the cheese boards."

"The bar's dim lighting and cozy atmosphere make it perfect for a chill night."

"I found the wine selection to be great."

Good to know

1

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

2

Live music performances occur on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

The venue offers a spacious event space suitable for 40-50 guests.

03
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 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.

A cool basement bar with a strong underground vibe hosts live music shows. The atmosphere feels hidden and intimate.

People are saying

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

"I loved the live music at this bar."

"I loved their great beer selection on tap."

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.

04
Murphy's Bleachers image 1

Sports bar with historic baseball decor and electric game day energy draws a lively crowd of fans. Indoor and outdoor seating offer bird's-eye views and ample space despite crowds. Atmosphere captures classic ballpark vibe and deep ties to local baseball culture.

Known for its strong ties to Chicago baseball lore, this bar stands out as a top pre-game spot around Wrigley. It offers a fun atmosphere that draws crowds even outside baseball season.

Lots of laughs and fun fill this sports bar right next to Wrigley Field. It stays cool even during a rain delay, making it a solid spot to hang out and catch a game.

People are saying

"You have to grab a beer here before or after a Cubs game."

"This bar is the best place to grab drinks before a Cubs game."

"It's a cool spot right across from Wrigley Field to catch a game."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during Cubs games.

2

Reservations are recommended for winter eve dinners.

3

The bar accepts credit cards and mobile payments.

05
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.

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.

A dive bar with a vibe that feels like The Shire. The cool door stands out right away, setting a unique tone.

People are saying

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

"I found the drinks here to be cheap."

"It's a cool little dive bar that looked like The Shire."

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.

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.

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.

A chill vibe stands out during karaoke, making it a cool and safe spot among many other bars. The overall atmosphere feels very cool and relaxed.

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 cool, especially 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
The Gman Tavern image 1

Wood-themed dive bar with an intimate, quirky atmosphere and handmade wooden bar. Mellow and relaxed vibe with live music performances and great acoustics during shows. Crowd is local and diverse, resisting typical corporate or sports bar energy.

Wood-lined walls and a dive bar atmosphere set the scene with records spinning on a turntable. Friendly service and a full bar with an excellent beer selection create a relaxed vibe, supported by a strict no-assholes policy and attentive security.

A handmade wooden bar sets a classic, cool vibe. The bartender with super cool glasses adds to the friendly, engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are super kind and handle things professionally."

"I enjoyed the excellent beer selection here."

"The bartender with cool glasses gave off good vibes."

Good to know

1

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

2

The Gman Tavern hosts Jeopardy games every Wednesday at 8pm.

3

The bar is adults only, so no minors are allowed.

08
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.

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.

Creative decorations and themed parties create a unique vibe. Cool spots for photos and interactive games add to the fun. Bathrooms feature artistic lighting and marked walls.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are inspired by evolving themes and pop-ups."

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

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.

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.

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.

Tons of TVs create a lively atmosphere. The bartenders and server bring a genuinely cool vibe to the place.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is bomb, especially for a late-night spot."

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
Landmark's Century Centre Cinema image 1

Movie theater offers comfortable rocking seats and a full-service bar with a lounge area. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with clean sound and modern screens. Crowd is relaxed, making it feel like a place to truly enjoy films rather than just pass time.

A stellar selection of drinks and beer stands out at the bar inside the theater. The addition of the Century Bar and recliner seats enhances the experience before or after movies.

The theater features a cool retro layout and unique elevators that add to its vibe. The building itself stands out with a distinctive cool design.

People are saying

"I enjoyed going to a movie here; it provides a personal experience."

"The bar has a stellar selection of drinks and beer."

"I found the building and theater to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the cinema seven days a week.

2

The cinema offers $5 Retro Movies on select days.

3

Expect a clean and well-maintained environment throughout the theater.

11
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.

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

Unique atmosphere and cool vibes set the tone. TVs play games, adding to the laid-back feel.

People are saying

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

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

"The atmosphere here is really cool, with unique vibes."

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.

12
Rizzo's Bar & Inn image 1

Big, spacious bar with a huge glassed-in, open-air patio offers dozens of TVs and an 80-inch screen for watching games. Atmosphere shifts between electric excitement on game days and intimate gatherings with varied seating options. Outdoor area and retractable roof maintain comfort while hosting lively celebrations or private events.

Huge glassed-in, open-air patio offers a fun vibe with giant screens for Cubs games. The bar is big and spacious with varied seating, including private areas, and staff are reliably awesome.

Atmosphere feels cool and inviting, especially with holiday decorations that stand out. It suits a spot for appetizers and drinks before events.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the flatbread pizzas and pretzel."

"The food and drinks at the bar were delicious and great."

"It's a cool place, especially with the holiday decorations."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Fridays with $7 cocktails and $8 espresso martinis.

2

Rizzo's Bar & Inn can host events for over 100 people with ample space.

3

Food is not guaranteed during special events, so plan accordingly.

13
Sluggers World Class Sports Bar and Grill & Dueling Pianos image 1

Multiple levels include batting cages and dueling pianos, creating a lively and interactive environment. Loud, energetic crowd gathers especially after games, with a young demographic and a dance floor downstairs. Spacious layout offers areas for both high-energy fun and quieter downtime.

Two bars on the first floor serve drinks while large TVs show sports. Upstairs features dueling pianos, batting cages, and arcade games, creating an entertaining vibe with fantastic customer service.

Classic sports bar vibe blends with dueling pianos and a chill atmosphere. Games and a solid drink selection add to the cool entertainment upstairs.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great, especially with all the entertainment."

"The bar upstairs has batting cages and games."

"It's cool with batting cages and arcade games upstairs."

Good to know

1

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

2

Karaoke night is every Thursday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

The bar is very busy during game nights, so arrive early.

14
Monsignor Murphy's image 1

Eclectic dive bar with free popcorn, darts, and a patio creates a casual, neighborhood vibe. Atmosphere ranges from friendly and fun during games and live music to occasionally unwelcoming. Regulars gather for cheap drinks and a relaxed place to watch sports.

Dive bar vibe shines with cheap drinks, darts, and popcorn. Friendly neighborhood feel with ample seating and a bartender named Annie behind the bar.

Atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting. The spot has a unique charm that stands out.

People are saying

"It's a fun dive bar with cheap drinks and free popcorn."

"The staff here is super friendly and looks out for each other."

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

Good to know

1

Free food is offered on game days.

2

Live music happens on Wednesdays.

3

Food is available from a hotdog place downstairs.

15
Metro image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with great acoustics and clear sightlines from every seat. The space features an ornate interior and a balcony that enhances the experience. It hosts a lively crowd enjoying punk, pop punk, and alternative bands with a well-functioning sound system.

Strong drinks come from bar staff who match their strength. Two bars sit on the main floor with one more in the balcony. The bar operates on a cash only basis.

Small venue with a cool historic vibe and fun decorations. The ventilation system keeps air flowing well, and the balcony adds a neat touch.

People are saying

"It's a small and intimate venue for shows."

"The bar is cash only, but there's an ATM."

"I found the venue to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Metro is a cash-only venue, so bring cash for drinks and entry.

2

There are no ADA accommodations, making it difficult for those with disabilities.

3

The venue often oversells tickets, leading to overcrowding during events.

16
Stolen Saddle image 1

Multi-leveled bar with mechanical bull and live music creates a lively, spacious environment. Atmosphere blends cool Southern vibe with rustic charm and energetic fun. Crowd enjoys games and dancing, making it feel like a vibrant country-themed club.

A country bar with tequila cocktails and Tex-mex food creates a lively atmosphere. The main bar offers excellent service even when packed, making it a popular spot for game days.

People are saying

"The bartenders here make great drinks and keep them flowing."

"The atmosphere here is so cool with its rustic cowboy vibe."

"The nachos here are loaded with brisket and perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu includes tacos, quesadillas, chips & salsa, margaritas, and espresso martinis.

2

Food and drink specials are available during home games.

3

Children are welcome until 8 p.m.

17
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.

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.

Atmosphere features a nice view of brewing materials and tasteful holiday decorations. The space has a chill and cool vibe influenced by Isaac.

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."

"The vibe here is really cool and chill."

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.

18
Tin Roof image 1

Two main areas host live bands in front and a DJ with dance floor in the back, creating a high-energy atmosphere with fun vibes. Spacious layout prevents crowding despite lively scenes. Decor adds to the engaging environment.

Spacious layout keeps the crowd comfortable during bar crawls and big groups. Helpful staff and security create a safe, welcoming vibe. Craft cocktails, refreshing beers, and hearty bites come from a skilled kitchen and bar team.

Security staff stay professional and keep the vibe intact while ensuring safety. The venue offers cool drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"The live music here is fantastic and adds the perfect vibe."

"The live music at this bar is fantastic and adds the perfect vibe."

"The vibes here are cool, with awesome music and a fun crowd."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

2

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, attracting a lively crowd.

3

On Thursdays, enjoy $1 hot dogs during the happy hour.

19
The Cubby Bear Chicago image 1

Sports bar with live music and a DJ-driven dance floor creates a nightclub-like atmosphere. The space includes multiple sections and a top floor with a stadium view. The vibe is electric and busy, especially after games.

A single bartender manages the packed bar efficiently while waitstaff handle table service. Drinks come at reasonable prices and the bar also serves food, creating a solid spot for visitors.

Crowd and people here are consistently cool. The setup includes a nice stage that adds to the vibe.

People are saying

"The atmosphere during live sports here is electric and so much fun."

"This bar is super fun and full of sports pride."

"The vibe and the people here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Salsa Sundays feature live music and dancing, starting at 8pm.

2

Cover charge applies for entry on event nights.

3

Happy hour offers $5 Corona and Modelo cans with half-off appetizers.

20
Santa Baby Bar at Stolen Saddle image 1

Bar offers stunning Christmas decorations on multiple floors including an open rooftop with plentiful photo opportunities. Atmosphere feels festive and welcoming, filled with holiday spirit that energizes the space. Visitors often come for the vibrant seasonal vibe and unique visual setups.

A fun, welcoming atmosphere sets the tone with amazing cocktails crafted with care. The bar features a fully decked-out holiday vibe that creates a lively and festive experience.

Lights and photo spots create a cool concept. The decorations add to the very cool atmosphere. Staff, including the waitress, are really cool too.

People are saying

"You should go to the bar just for the beautiful holiday decor and lights."

"It's so kid-friendly with decorations and photo ops everywhere!"

"The atmosphere is really cool with the decorations and lights."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially during busy times.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly, but participation details may not be clearly communicated.

3

Expect high prices for drinks and food, often exceeding menu listings.

21
DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field image 1

Wraparound giant screens show multiple games from every angle, creating a Vegas sportsbook vibe. The atmosphere stays lively and vibrant, with music and live acoustic guitar adding to the energy. Several kiosks and agents make live betting easy while watching sports.

Sports fans find an atmosphere that makes every game feel like a championship. The bar offers immaculate service, incredible food and drinks, and prices that stand out.

Massive screens and numerous TVs create a very cool atmosphere for watching sports. The sportsbook area feels professional and the bar adds to the overall cool vibe.

People are saying

"You've gotta see the massive screens for live sports here!"

"You can grab a bite to eat while watching the games on massive screens."

"The sports book and massive screens here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to secure a good spot.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:30 PM, so plan your meals accordingly.

3

Expect strict security checks before entry, including ID frisking.

22
Nightmare on Clark Street image 1

Dark, horror-themed bar with intricate decorations and scare actors creating a spooky atmosphere. Midway bar offers a chill break between scares, making the experience more relaxed. The vibe mixes fun jump scares with a casual bar setting, suitable for groups seeking light thrills.

Beetlejuice Bar stands out with its detailed decorations. Bars offer quick service even on busy nights and transform into interactive Halloween experiences with actors and smoke machines.

Bars offer a cool vibe. The haunted maze features interesting sounds and is very well done. Halloween props add a very cool touch.

People are saying

"The haunted house fun activities were frightening but fun."

"The bar was transformed into a scary, interactive Halloween experience."

"The haunted maze was really cool and well done."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure your spot for the event.

2

Tickets for the event are priced at $30, despite the shorter experience.

3

The haunted house experience this year lasts less than 5 minutes.

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Lake View East, Chicago

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