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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Lake View East

Dive Bars

A dive bar that feels like a neighborhood staple instead of a place that just happens to be cheap.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated April 2026
01
Parrots Bar & Grill image 1
Parrots Bar & Grill image 2
Parrots Bar & Grill image 3
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Nautical and bird-themed decor creates a unique vibe blending tiki and dive bar styles. Warm, inviting atmosphere draws a chill crowd enjoying affordable drinks and free games like pool and darts. Classic, no-frills setting fits perfectly into the authentic dive bar scene.

Known for its authentic dive bar vibe, this spot fits right into the Chicago dive bar crawl. It offers a classic, no-frills atmosphere typical of dive bars.

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."

"You can play free darts and pool in a separate room."

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.

02
Dram Shop image 1

Cozy dive bar with dim lighting and a classic jukebox sets a laid-back vibe. Offers over 100 whiskeys and a true neighborhood feel. Cash-only policy keeps it simple and easygoing.

Small and dark with an old school dive bar vibe. Offers a true Chicago dive bar experience with a neighborhood feel.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to watch live sports and chat with the friendly bartender."

"This dive bar has over 100 whiskeys available."

Good to know

1

The bar accepts only cash.

2

You can bring in your own food.

3

The bar has over 100 whiskeys available.

03
Muse Spirits image 1

Small neighborhood bar shines with cozy dive vibes and an intimate atmosphere. Bartenders serve high-quality cocktails with unique infusions. Perfect for quiet talks or casual hangouts with a thoughtful playlist.

Cozy and cute vibes define this dive bar with great cocktails and an elevated dive bar atmosphere.

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.

04
The Gman Tavern image 1

Wood-themed dive bar offers an intimate vibe with handmade wooden bar and live music that sounds great. Records spin on a turntable, adding to the classic dive bar feel. Crowd is local and diverse, with prices that stay affordable despite wealthier patrons.

Records play on a turntable, setting a classic dive bar atmosphere. Prices stay good and affordable, though the crowd leans toward the wealthiest drinkers in the area.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the excellent beer selection here."

"It's a classic, cool dive bar worth checking out."

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.

05
Joe's On Broadway image 1

Dive bar buzzes with an eclectic mix of friendly locals and a quirky vibe. Music lifts the casual atmosphere while fair prices keep it accessible. Off-the-beaten-path spot feels like a cool corner hangout for relaxed drinks.

Quirky vibe and casual atmosphere define this cool dive bar. It offers a laid-back spot close to lively areas, making it a solid choice for a relaxed drink.

People are saying

"It's a cool, quirky dive bar."

Good to know

1

Prices at Joe's On Broadway are fair for a neighborhood bar.

2

The locals at Joe's On Broadway are friendly and welcoming.

3

Hygiene practices may vary; some customers notice cleanliness issues.

06
Friar Tuck image 1

Cozy dive bar with historic charm and a neighborhood vibe offers free popcorn and a jukebox. Easygoing crowd fills up by late evening, creating a casual hangout spot. Classic, chill atmosphere feels like stepping into The Shire.

Cozy, classic dive bar with a historic vibe and a look reminiscent of The Shire. It offers a fun, local atmosphere without any fancy frills.

People are saying

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

"I found the drinks here to be cheap."

"I found it to be a fun, cool dive bar."

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.

07
Galway Bay image 1

Neighborhood bar with old-school dive vibe offers free darts and pool alongside retro video games. Perfect pints of Guinness complement lively crowds in their late 20s and 30s. Middle Eastern cuisine adds a unique twist to the fun atmosphere.

A solid dive bar vibe comes with darts, pool, and a few video games. Everything a good bar needs is here.

People are saying

"They had free darts and pool for entertainment."

"It's a great dive bar with affordable prices."

"It's a great dive bar with everything a good bar could have."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday from 5 PM to 8 PM.

2

Karaoke is available on Sunday nights.

3

Cash is recommended as the credit card system is unreliable.

08
Shakers on Clark image 1

Cozy basement vibe and classic dive bar style create a fun spot for casual drinks. Loud music and karaoke nights bring energy and diverse crowds. Self-serve popcorn and darts add to the lively, social atmosphere.

Offers a cool little atmosphere with a classic dive bar vibe. Stands out as an awesome spot for casual drinks.

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."

"You can sing karaoke here almost every night."

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.

09
Nisei Lounge image 1

Rustic dive bar with authentic atmosphere and quirky decor offers a friendly, buzzing vibe. Known as the city's oldest baseball dive bar, it embraces a classic, welcoming spirit. Regulars enjoy affordable drinks and games like darts on the back patio.

Offers a rich history and stands as the city's oldest baseball dive bar. Embraces the classic dive bar vibe with a welcoming atmosphere and even brands itself a romantic dive bar on Valentine's Day.

People are saying

"I thought it was the coolest bar in Wrigleyville."

"I found it to be a great dive bar, feeling welcome and at home."

"Playing darts here was a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

Nisei Lounge is known for its cheap drinks and casual atmosphere.

2

The bar is a popular spot before or after local games.

3

Expect a relaxed vibe with pool and darts available for entertainment.

10
Monsignor Murphy's image 1

Eclectic dive bar offers cheap drinks and free popcorn for a casual vibe. Darts and a patio add to the fun, while sports and live music bring a friendly atmosphere. Regulars enjoy a relaxed spot to watch games and unwind.

Offers a no-frills dive bar vibe with cheap drinks and plenty of seating. Features darts and popcorn for a casual, fun atmosphere.

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."

"It's a dive bar with cheap drinks."

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.

11
Half Shell image 1
Seafood restaurant

Underground seafood spot offers king crab legs and cold beer with a strong dive bar vibe. Cozy, no-frills atmosphere suits casual meals and business talks. Outdoor patio livens up during warm days, adding to its authentic fish shack style.

Cold beer flows freely in a spot with a strong dive bar vibe. King crab legs add a surprising twist to the usual dive bar fare.

People are saying

"The grilled oysters here were excellent."

"It's a cozy, no-frills spot with old-school charm."

"This dive bar serves unbelievably fresh, high-end seafood."

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.

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Lake View East, Chicago

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