Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Cozy cocktails in Lake View East

You want a cocktail in a space that invites you to stay for a second round.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Matisse Tavern & Grill image 1
Matisse Tavern & Grill image 2
Matisse Tavern & Grill image 3
View all

Gastropub offers cozy atmosphere with heated outdoor patio open late into fall. Close seating creates an intimate vibe, complemented by extraordinary craft cocktails and a brilliant patio space. Music and warm lighting enhance the inviting energy throughout.

Super warm and cozy atmosphere creates a nice spot for a date night. The vibe feels both fun and inviting.

Craft cocktails stand out with house-made syrups and juices. Signature drinks like the enchanted forest and the mule show clear creativity and deliver great flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the rosemary chicken."

"The food and drinks here are fantastic, especially the creative cocktails."

"I loved the craft cocktails here; they were amazing."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stays open late until around 1:00 or 1:30 a.m.

2

Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers on Sunday and Monday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

02
Muse Spirits image 1

Small neighborhood bar offers cozy dive vibes with an intimate atmosphere and thoughtful playlist that blends seamlessly. Bartenders craft high-quality cocktails, including unique infusions, creating a relaxed spot for quiet conversation or casual hangouts.

The bar offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a super chill vibe. It feels like a cute, cozy dive bar perfect for relaxed evenings.

Well made cocktails stand out here, crafted by a friendly bartender named Kim. The bar feels like a cute dive with some of the best drinks on this side of town.

People are saying

"I had one of the best cocktails I've ever had at this bar."

"I thought the cocktails here were the best I've ever had."

"It's a cozy little bar with a super chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Muse Spirits does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

2

The bar fits about 15 people, so it can get crowded.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks; check the timing.

03
Buzzed By ZEA - Salon & Bar image 1

Salon and cocktail lounge combine into a small, cozy space with an elegant, warm atmosphere. Intimate lighting and spectacular craft cocktails create a sophisticated vibe. The dual concept shifts from daytime salon to nighttime bar, offering a unique, chill experience.

Small space creates a cozy atmosphere. After hours, it turns into a cozy bar with wonderful cocktails.

Fantastic cocktails stand out with a friendly bartender crafting drinks that match some of the best bars in the city. The spot offers a great chill vibe perfect for enjoying proper cocktails.

People are saying

"The cocktails here were amazing and fantastic."

"The staff made my party feel so comfortable and ran everything smoothly."

"The bar inside is small and cozy, perfect for conversations."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features half-price cocktails from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

3

The salon offers services during the day and transforms into a bar at night.

04
AJI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Counter seating for about 10 creates an intimate, upscale setting with dark, minimalist decor reflecting Japanese elegance. Chefs prepare a 14-course omakase in front of diners, with a split flap display showing each course's name. The atmosphere stays chic and elegant without feeling pretentious, suited for special occasions.

Only 10 seats create an intimate setting with a warm and cozy atmosphere. A power outage adds to the vibe, encouraging real conversations and focus on the food.

Phenomenal cocktails come with refreshing sake options. Staff guide through the menu, suggesting pairings and explaining nuances.

People are saying

"The fish here is thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavor."

"The omakase here is a unique experience with fresh, flavorful dishes."

"The cocktails here are delicious and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at AJI.

2

The omakase experience includes 15 taster courses prepared by skilled chefs.

3

Pricing is $150 per person, excluding taxes, gratuity, and drinks.

05
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.

Relaxed vibe fills the open area, creating an intimate space to unwind. The atmosphere feels cozy and inviting throughout.

Vintage liquors and craft cocktails stand out here. The Bills in Foil cocktail offers a unique taste, making it a solid choice for cocktail lovers.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and tasty."

"The Mordecai burger with beef fat fries was amazing."

"It's a cozy spot with charming decor and the right energy for friends."

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.

06
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.

An intimate spot with a cozy warm ambiance and good acoustics makes it easy to relax. The space suits quiet talks and enjoying appetizer-style food pairings alongside cocktails and wine.

Amazing cocktails feature prominently with a great cocktail list offering a variety of options. Personalized recommendations lead to phenomenal drinks crafted by skilled bartenders.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here were amazing and enjoyable."

"It's so cozy with the dim lighting and velvet seating."

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.

07
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.

Spacious layout combines with cozy decor to create a warm atmosphere. The vibe feels inviting and perfect for a relaxed breakfast.

Cocktails feature a wide and ambitious menu with unique options. Drinks with honey, like Smoke&Honey, stand out for their elevated taste.

People are saying

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

"The lunch spot's burgers are juicy with amazing flavor."

"The cocktails here are great and the service is incredible."

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.

08
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.

Soft lighting and a fireplace create a warm atmosphere. Comfortable chairs and a cool bar setup add to the cozy vibe.

Unique cocktails with good mixology stand out here. The bar offers a cozy vibe and a beautiful lounge setting, with fairly priced drinks like the whiskey sour and a terrace for enjoying cocktails.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and unique."

"I loved the Easter Bunny breakfast and how he interacted with my little one."

"The soft lighting and fireplace make it feel so cozy."

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.

09
Cafe Korzo image 1

Open-air cafe with sidewalk dining and a small colorful patio creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Music adds to the relaxed vibe, drawing a crowd that enjoys people watching and casual socializing. The layout encourages enjoying the day and breeze without feeling crowded.

Small size and warm atmosphere create a cozy vibe. Noise level stays low enough for easy conversation, and staff are friendly and welcoming.

Cocktails here have a decent quality and pair well with dinner. The spot also offers coffee options alongside the drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"The coffee here is amazing, truly some of the best I've had."

"The drinks here are fantastic, and the service is always great."

Good to know

1

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

2

Laptop use is not allowed during weekends at Cafe Korzo.

3

Expect large crowds after 5 PM on Fridays; arrive by 4 PM to avoid waiting.

10
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.

Great food pairs with a cozy vibe and welcoming aesthetic. The space feels snug without being cramped, making it easy to relax.

Premium cocktails here taste sublime and offer good value compared to upscale bars. Specialty and new drinks, including a toasted marshmallow cocktail, stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"Their specialty cocktails were fantastic and sublime."

"It's a cozy 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.

Discover more

Lake View East, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...