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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lincoln Park

Bars for date spots

You need a bar that provides the right atmosphere for a date.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Love Street image 1
Love Street image 2
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Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar with cozy, intimate atmosphere and dark candlelit tables creates a romantic, neighborhood vibe. Music stays at a comfortable volume, supporting easy conversation. Cocktails are excellent and varied, with bartenders open to suggestions.

Cozy and cool spot with a great selection of signature cocktails. Bartenders craft creative drinks like standout sazeracs, creating a romantic small neighborhood bar vibe.

Chill ambiance sets the tone for a romantic date or casual meet-up. Excellent cocktails complement the vibe, making it ideal for both weekday and weekend outings.

People are saying

"You have to try the cocktails; they're creative and have wonderful flavors."

"It's an awesome date spot with a chill ambiance and excellent cocktails."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating fills up quickly by 7 PM.

2

Cocktails are priced at $16 each as of August 2025.

3

Expect a lively crowd on weekends, especially during late-night hours.

02
The Albion Manor image 1
English restaurant

English pub-style space combines wood paneling, snugs, and velvet lounges for a mix of casual and sophisticated vibes. Warm lighting and personable staff create a comfortable atmosphere where conversation flows easily. Multiple TVs show major European soccer leagues, making it a popular spot for sports fans.

Wood paneling and snugs create a British pub vibe with personable bar staff and TVs showing games. The lounge upstairs offers a more intimate experience, and the bar serves notable Irish coffee alongside pub fare like curry fries.

A lounge with a cozy upstairs parlor suits impromptu date nights. It hosts speed dating events that create a pleasant atmosphere for couples.

People are saying

"The bar's cocktails are creatively made and amazing."

"It's a great British pub with tons of screens for watching games."

"The bartender Chandler makes creative cocktails for a great date."

Good to know

1

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

2

Trivia night occurs every Sunday at 7pm with a competitive atmosphere.

3

The burlesque shows are held on Saturday nights with a lively crowd.

03
Brando's Lincoln Park image 1

Bar offers an upscale karaoke setup with an easy queue system and live music on Sundays. Decor combines cozy lounge-like and beautiful aesthetic elements, creating a classy and fun atmosphere. DJs and karaoke hosts maintain a lively vibe with great music and song availability.

Fun setup and great drinks create a lively atmosphere. The karaoke experience stands out as a key feature, making it a popular spot for singing and socializing.

Drinks stand out as a highlight for a date night. The spot suits both couples and groups, though the karaoke list feels outdated.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are phenomenal, especially during karaoke."

"This karaoke bar is awesome for singing your heart out."

"The drinks here are killer, and the bartenders are so friendly."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is free, but tips for the DJ are appreciated.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7 PM with discounted drinks.

3

There is no cover charge to enter the bar.

04
King of Cups image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with medieval-themed decor and a dark, cozy ambiance featuring candles and wall art. Offers tarot card readings in a back room and serves impressive espresso martinis on tap. Space feels intimate with clever medieval pop art on TVs and crowns as part of the aesthetic.

Craft cocktails come with specialty drinks with flair and incredible service. The bar offers a gorgeous setting perfect for happy hour or unwinding after work.

Dim lighting creates a romantic atmosphere ideal for date nights. The setting feels intimate and cozy, making it a nice spot to enjoy time together.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and talented."

"The cocktails were complex and well-balanced."

"The cocktails here are great for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with drinks starting at $4.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially from Thursday to Saturday.

3

Tarot readings cost $15 and are available in a hallway at the back.

05
Butcher and the Bear image 1

Steakhouse offers a dark intimate atmosphere with sophisticated, elegant vibe and beautiful decor. Live singer performances add to the swanky bar area ambiance. High-quality steaks and expertly crafted cocktails define the experience.

Spectacular bar program offers a wide range of drinks. Welcoming bar staff and hostesses create a friendly atmosphere upstairs. Seating at the bar suits groups ordering food like burgers.

Offers a romantic atmosphere ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries. Serves excellent dinner options that make date nights memorable and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and full of flavor."

"The food at these Date Spots is outstanding and full of flavor."

"The food here is amazing, truly mouth-watering."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; don't miss it.

3

The 'Girl Dinner' special on Sundays includes two martinis and caviar fries for $29.

06
The Galway Arms image 1

Cozy Irish pub with multiple rooms featuring fireplaces and woodwork that evoke an authentic Ireland feel. Live traditional music most nights creates a lively, community atmosphere. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed space for gatherings.

Cozy Irish pub with multiple rooms featuring fireplaces and a few TVs. Woodwork and interior decor create an authentic Irish pub atmosphere perfect for watching games, dates, or gathering with friends.

A cozy spot to sit at the bar and watch a game or enjoy a meal with a date. The menu features Chicken Pot Pie and a saucy chicken sandwich that requires a knife and fork.

People are saying

"This bar has live Irish music and dancing sessions."

"The pub fare here is delicious and affordably priced."

"These Date Spots have delicious, flavorful burgers and satisfying stout."

Good to know

1

Live Irish music sessions occur five nights a week, with the biggest on Sundays.

2

Everyone is welcome to join the music and dance sessions.

3

Reservations can be made online for larger parties.

07
J9 Wine Bar image 1
Wine bar

Cozy space with low light ambiance and curated early 2000s music creates a laid-back vibe. Seating options include cute cubbies for couples and a large bar area with couches for groups. Atmosphere suits quiet conversation and casual meetups before dinner.

Extensive and eclectic wine selection includes orange wine and offerings from well above average producers. Cozy atmosphere with cute cubbies for couples and a large, clean bar creates a vibey, laid back spot for dates or nights out.

Cute cubbies create cozy spots for couples, while a large, clean bar adds to the setting. Quick service on drinks supports a lovely atmosphere for first dates or catching up.

People are saying

"I loved their great wine selection and friendly staff."

"The wine selection at this bar is extensive and always interesting."

"The wine here is amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The cheapest bottle of wine costs $60.

2

A bag of chips is $11.

3

They charge $400 for two charcuterie boards and wine.

08
Bird's Nest image 1
Bar & grill

Neighborhood bar with laid-back atmosphere and classic Chicago feel offers plenty of TVs for sports fans and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Crowded seating and rowdy energy appear during busy times, balanced by friendly vibe and casual crowd. Known for some of the best wings in Chicago, it suits groups and casual hangouts alike.

A laid back neighborhood sports bar with a friendly casual atmosphere. Wings stand out as some of the best in Chicago and service is attentive, including efforts to accommodate seating.

Two secluded booths offer privacy for a chill date night or small group. Buffalo wings stand out as a popular choice to share.

People are saying

"The wings here are crispy, juicy, and perfectly sauced."

"These wings are the best I've ever had, perfect for Date Spots."

"The wings here are crispy, flavorful, and the best in the city."

Good to know

1

Bird's Nest offers daily drink specials that are worth checking out.

2

Happy hour deals are available, making it a great time to visit.

3

The kitchen closes more than two hours before the posted closing time.

09
King Crab House Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant offers nautical charm with epoxy tables embedded with seashells and a coastal retreat vibe. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and kitschy, with a chill music selection enhancing the mood. Limited seating and a cozy outdoor patio create an intimate setting.

Sitting at the bar offers amazing deals and access to happy hour specials like shrimp and oysters. The oyster shucking right in front of you creates a unique experience, making the bar menu stand out in the city.

Quaint and sophisticated, this spot offers great seafood and filet deals ideal for date nights. The atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and casual outings with friends.

People are saying

"The oysters here are top quality and unbeatable."

"The seafood at these Date Spots is always fresh and delicious."

"John the bartender provided awesome, attentive service at the bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available on Sundays with appetizer specials at the bar.

2

There is a two-drink minimum for the oyster bar special.

3

Parking is not available near the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

10
Beck's Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Cozy bar with an old bar vibe and plenty of seating, featuring multiple TVs for sports viewing and a nice outdoor patio. Atmosphere stays chill with a college bar energy, attracting a local crowd looking for a relaxed night out.

Awesome bartenders manage the bar and tables efficiently, even when handling both alone. The spot has a strong local vibe with a solid reputation in the area.

Fish and chips and garlic buffalo wings stand out as solid choices. Bartenders are helpful, even lending chairs when needed.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and make great drinks."

"The chicken breast in the salad was so tender."

"These Date Spots have the best crispy wings I've found."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7:30pm.

2

Parking is easy to find right in front on Monday nights.

3

They offer a wide variety of food and drink options at affordable prices.

11
The Bad Apple image 1
Restaurant

Large outdoor patio with trees and enchanting lights creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere suited for groups and families. Multiple TVs show sports, enhancing the game day vibe. Indoor space features a historic mural, but noise levels are high from conversations and screens.

Bar features a beautiful outdoor space and a well-liked bar area. Bar food is really good after recent upgrades.

Many larger tables sit outside on the patio and inside, making it good for date night or groups. Burgers are available but can be small in size.

People are saying

"They have a vast and creative beer selection."

"The bar food here is really good, especially the burgers and wings."

"You can pick the music and décor for your Date Spots here."

Good to know

1

Expect a 5% service charge added to your bill.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The restaurant offers many crazy burger options and a good variety of appetizers.

12
Esmé image 1
Restaurant

Dining space resembles an art gallery with rotating exhibits integrated into plating and decor. Atmosphere stays comfortable and elegant, avoiding fine dining pretension while feeling welcoming and calm. Guests experience creative presentations alongside carefully crafted cocktails and dishes.

The bar features a three-course tasting menu and hosts events even on weekdays. It stays lively with many diners nearby, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Intimate settings suit celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays. Staff show considerate attention to special occasions, enhancing the experience for couples.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are unique, artfully presented, and inspired by the gallery."

"The bar's inventive cocktails were a creative highlight."

"The food here is artistic, interesting, and delicious for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy dining hours.

2

The tasting menu changes every 12 weeks, inspired by a local artist.

3

Expect to pay around $80 per person during Chicago Restaurant Week.

13
The Lakefront Restaurant at Theater on the Lake image 1

Restaurant offers spectacular lake and city skyline views with outdoor seating that overlooks sailboats and sunsets. Atmosphere feels sheltered from city noise, creating a perfect setting for casual or fancy dining. Cocktails like bottomless mimosas and classic Old Fashioneds complement the relaxed yet upscale vibe.

Sitting at the bar offers a chance to chat with a friendly bartender. The bar menu features an excellent selection of beers and wines.

Beautiful brunch and well-crafted dishes create a relaxed yet elegant setting for dates. The halibut stands out as a tasty, well put together plate that suits both casual meals and fancy date nights.

People are saying

"The lake and city skyline views here are beautiful."

"The lake and city skyline views make these Date Spots incredible."

"The brisket dip sandwich and poblano beef stew were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks and appetizers are available daily from 4-6pm.

2

Valet parking costs $15 and is cash only.

3

The restaurant offers outdoor seating with views of the lake.

14
Soul Prime image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with modern contemporary design and soulful R&B music creates an intimate, joyful vibe. Music plays continuously, mixing gospel and 90s throwbacks, setting a family block party atmosphere. Spacious bar and warm hospitality add to the welcoming energy.

Great drinks come with a phenomenal bartender who chats lightly about the occasion. The atmosphere gives off good vibes with chefs working hard nearby.

Special occasions get thoughtful attention with attentive service and a lovely atmosphere. Meals support memorable moments for couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or date nights.

People are saying

"The fried chicken and mac and cheese are soul-warming American food."

"The lemonade here is so flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"The fried chicken with hot honey bourbon glaze is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for parties of three or more on weekends.

2

Happy Hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6 p.m., with $3-$9 food options.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:30 p.m., so arrive early for dinner.

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Lincoln Park, Chicago

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