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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Beer bars

A cold beer served at the bar.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
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Dark dive bar with a half-circle bar, limited seating, and country flags hanging from the ceiling creates a true neighborhood vibe. Customers grab beers from refrigerators and bring them to the bar for opening, adding to the casual, self-serve feel. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with good music and a jukebox enhancing the experience.

A cash-only dive bar opens early at 7am and offers an awesome selection of beers. The service is outstanding, with a bartender named Frank who stands out for his skill and friendliness.

Huge beer selection offers a variety of craft beers. Customers can grab their own beer from refrigerators, adding a unique self-serve touch.

People are saying

"I thought it was the best and most authentic dive bar."

"I was impressed by the huge beer selection."

"This place is the best dive bar around."

Good to know

1

Rossi's is a cash-only bar that opens at 7am.

2

Rossi's has a full crowd during Riot Fest season.

3

Expect limited seating during peak hours.

02
No Vacancy image 1
Restaurant

Dark academia decor creates a classy yet casual vibe with comfortable bar seating and large screen TVs for watching games. The atmosphere stays fun and welcoming, featuring DJs on weekends and a solid beer tap system. Food and drinks include amazing birria egg rolls and craft cocktails, making it a popular spot for game days.

A quiet spot with a cool bar vibe that welcomes families. The bar serves great drinks and is known for its best bar food in Chicago.

Beers come with a bottom-up pouring system that stands out. The selection includes IPAs and options like Kona Big Wave.

People are saying

"I found the birria egg rolls to be absolutely delicious."

"The bar food here is amazing, especially the steak sliders."

"I loved their awesome selection of beers."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 to 6:30 pm with half-price appetizers and drinks.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during NFL games on weekends.

3

The menu features unique dishes but is small enough to not be overwhelming.

03
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1

Brewpub occupies a spacious second-floor spot with modern decor and fantastic artwork. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with good music playing at a comfortable volume. Seating includes wide, cushioned bar stools that add to the relaxed vibe.

Bar seating offers stable, wide, cushioned stools with foot rails that reach the bar. Service stays friendly and perfect, with a selection of top draft beers and fresh munchies available.

A great selection of beers caters to all tastes, including a perfectly balanced Oktoberfest that hits the right notes. The beer quality is consistently very good to excellent.

People are saying

"They have a great mix of beers on tap."

"The burgers here are cooked just right and packed with flavor."

"The beer here is great, especially the smokey porter."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located on the second floor of the AMC building.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

The kitchen closes at 9pm, so arrive early for food.

04
The Green Door Tavern image 1

Cozy dive bar with historic wooden interiors and a hidden speakeasy downstairs creates a unique old-school vibe. Social and friendly atmosphere fills the space with nostalgic memorabilia and warm energy. Regulars enjoy spinning a shot wheel and relaxing with good music and sports on TV.

An old school dive bar with a cozy vibe and historic appeal. Bartenders offer great service and the spot has hooks for bags, making it easy to hang out with friends.

Excellent local beers and a wide selection of brews appear on tap. The lineup includes a variety of beers that pair well with burgers.

People are saying

"The bartender Autumn's energy made the whole bar feel more enjoyable."

"I loved the good variety of local beers here."

"I loved the old school vibe of the speakeasy downstairs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the downstairs speakeasy to ensure entry.

2

The hidden bar opens later in the evening, providing a unique experience.

3

Happy hour offers late night food and drink specials.

05
Clark Street Ale House image 1

Sumo wrestling-themed bar with neon signs and murals creates a unique setting. Low lighting and candle-like decorations set a chill, intimate atmosphere with sports on screens. Dogs are welcome, and free popcorn adds a casual, friendly touch.

Huge selection of seasonal beers fills the taps. Dogs are welcome inside, adding to the chilled vibes. Friendly staff greet at the door and behind the bar. Screens show sports, and a popcorn bar adds a fun touch.

A huge selection of delicious and seasonal beers fills the taps, including three solid IPAs. Prices stay reasonable with 16oz pours around $10, and staff offer great recommendations to match the chilled vibes.

People are saying

"This bar is dog friendly and allows dogs inside."

"This pub has an outstanding beer selection."

"The beer selection here is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until 5:00am on weekends.

2

Dogs are allowed inside the bar.

3

Expect large crowds late at night, especially on weekends.

06
Brehon Pub image 1
Restaurant

Irish pub with old-fashioned decor and a quiet secretive back area contrasts with a crowded front room. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, suited for watching sports with multiple screens and playing games like pool and darts. Offers a huge patio and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe.

Offers a really authentic Irish pub experience with a great neighborhood pub atmosphere. Serves solid drinks and has multiple games on screens, plus a patio for summer nights.

A solid bottle beer selection includes Hacker-Pschorr, Red Stripe, and Stiegl Grapefruit. The beer pairs well with the food and offers a nice variety.

People are saying

"The food and beer at this pub were awesome."

"This bar has friendly staff and great drinks."

"The beer here is served by the friendliest staff."

Good to know

1

The pub charges an extra 3% on the bill for credit card payments.

2

Expect a $1 table fee for games, payable in quarters or bills.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

07
Fado Irish Pub image 1

Two-floor pub with old wooden ambiance and outdoor patio offers lively and relaxed areas. Live music and multiple TVs create an energetic vibe, especially during soccer games. Friendly crowd gathers around a rustic bar and dedicated fan corners, blending authentic Irish feel with sports enthusiasm.

Irish bar offers a wonderful atmosphere with super friendly staff. It features English football on TV and hosts Wednesday trivia nights.

Good selection of unique on tap beers stands out here. The classic Guinness stout fits well with the atmosphere, and the General Manager offers a free ale to ease the wait.

People are saying

"The pub staff here are super friendly and helpful."

"The bar area is nice for hanging out and the sliders were a favorite."

"I enjoyed the good beer selection and reasonable prices."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Trivia nights occur every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

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

08
SPIN Chicago image 1

Large space with plenty of ping pong tables creates an active, lively vibe. Music and a DJ on weekends add energy, while semi-private rooms offer quieter spots for groups. The venue suits both group parties and casual drinks, balancing fun and relaxation without feeling crowded.

A ping pong bar with a lively rooftop scene blends fun table tennis and a social atmosphere with good beers and snacks. Seating and bar areas stay clean, offering a fresh take on a sports bar night out.

Good beer selection pairs well with ping pong tables and snacks. Unlimited balls come with table reservations, making it easy to enjoy drinks while playing.

People are saying

"The food here is great, like pizza, dips, and appetizers."

"This bar is seriously fun with ping pong tables and good drinks."

"The beer selection here is really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for large groups, especially on weekends.

2

Ping pong table reservations have a one-hour minimum policy.

3

Happy hour specials are available on weekdays from 4-7 PM.

09
Celtic Crossings Irish Pub image 1

Irish tavern-style bar with electric atmosphere and phenomenal live music creates a lively, fun environment. Crowd includes many with Irish accents, adding to the authentic pub vibe. Properly poured Guinness and free darts enhance the homey feel with a fireplace and solid dart board.

Authentic Irish pub vibe shines through with properly poured Guinness and a lively, energetic atmosphere. Live music and dancing add to the captivating ambiance, making it feel like a true Dublin pub.

Proper Irish bar pours great beer, especially Guinness stouts served by trusted staff. Some bartenders may clear beers without notice, even when plenty remains.

People are saying

"This Irish pub feels like stepping into Dublin."

"The beer here is great, just like the atmosphere."

"The Guinness pours at the bar are excellent."

Good to know

1

The only food available is Tavern Pizza.

2

Drinks cost over $10 each.

3

The pub gets busy before major sports events.

10
Electric Shuffle Chicago image 1

Shuffleboard with high-tech tracking and immersive visuals defines the space, blending classic gameplay with modern tech. Vibrant social energy fills the stylish, throwback-decorated bar, enhanced by live DJ music and a fun, competitive vibe. Cocktails and food complement the atmosphere, making it lively yet not overcrowded.

Shuffleboard with high-tech tracking adds a fun twist to the bar experience. The bar area stays exceptionally clean, and staff like Tiffany deliver amazing customer service.

Offers $5 beer during Happy Hour from 3 pm to 5 pm on weekdays. Includes an unlimited two-hour package with beer and wine alongside pizza, wings, and fries.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here were excellent."

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

"The beer here was very good."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 3 pm to 5 pm Monday to Friday, offering $5 beer, wine, seltzers, and all fries.

2

During Happy Hour, margaritas, ranch water, espresso martinis, and house pizza are $10.

3

The all-inclusive brunch costs $50 per person for 90 minutes of shuffleboard, a bottle of bubbly, and food.

11
House of Blues Chicago image 1

Small venue with live blues music creates an authentic blues atmosphere filled with enthusiastic energy. Interior features beautiful woodwork and psychedelic decor with unique side rooms. Crowds enjoy music alongside strong cocktails in a warm, pleasant setting.

Good music sets a warm, pleasant atmosphere at the bar. It offers a great selection of beers and good service, though only bar seating is available and drinks can be overpriced.

Great selection of beers stands out at the bar. Food pairs well with the beer offerings.

People are saying

"The live music here sounds fantastic."

"The bar has a warm, pleasant atmosphere with good music."

"The beer here has a magic, psychedelic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking at the venue is valet only, which can be expensive.

2

Brunch is available 30 minutes before the show and throughout the performance.

3

Expect a limited food menu with generous portion sizes.

12
Blue Chicago image 1
Live music bar

Small, vintage blues bar with an intimate, no-frills setup focused on live music. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, with close proximity to local talent performing on a narrow stage at the back. Venue stays lively until late, attracting an enthusiastic crowd and offering cash-only service with room to dance.

Offers a quintessential blues bar vibe with live music and cheap drinks.

Cold beers come with moderate prices between $6 and $10, including bottled options and non-alcoholic beers. The atmosphere pairs well with a live old school Chicago style blues band.

People are saying

"The live music here is phenomenal and top-notch."

"The bar had a $20 cash cover charge at the door."

"I enjoyed a great beer while listening to amazing blues music."

Good to know

1

Blue Chicago is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for drinks.

2

There is a $15 cover charge to enter Blue Chicago.

3

Live performances start at 9pm, with doors opening at 8pm.

13
Shamrock Club image 1

Old-school bar extends deep inside with a pool table, jukebox, and popcorn machine adding to the casual vibe. Loud, fun crowd creates a welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere where people relax and socialize. Outdoor patio offers a perfect spot for warm days, enhancing the laid-back energy.

Dive bar vibe with friendly locals and fairly priced drinks stands out here. Plenty of activities keep the atmosphere lively and casual.

Reasonably priced beers arrive quickly, making it a solid spot for after work drinks. The vibe is casual, just a place to enjoy a couple of beers with mates downtown.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially with a cold pint."

"It's a cool dive bar with a friendly crowd that makes you feel at home."

"I found the beer to be reasonably priced downtown."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect the bar to get crowded around 6-7 PM.

3

Pitchers are available for $13, making it a budget-friendly option.

14
O'Leary's Public House image 1

Irish pub with cozy decor and multiple TVs creates a relaxing and fun vibe. Outdoor seating and a loft area offer varied spaces for socializing. Strong support for Green Bay Packers adds a unique sports atmosphere.

Strong Irish pub vibe with lively sports viewing on multiple screens. Service stays consistently awesome and the outdoor area offers a safe, welcoming spot with fair beer prices.

Cold beer comes with a decent selection and good prices. Quick service keeps the drinks flowing in a Covid safe outdoor area.

People are saying

"The bartenders at this pub are friendly and fun."

"The bartenders here are friendly and attentive."

"The bartenders here are friendly and serve you quickly."

Good to know

1

The bar opens at 10 am on Sundays, contrary to online listings.

2

Minors are not allowed in the bar, even if accompanied by adults.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during Packers games with plenty of standing room.

15
Mom's Place - A Chicago Gathering Spot image 1

Bar space divides into three distinct rooms featuring live jazz and funk music, karaoke, and a pool table area. Atmosphere shifts from vibrant and lively to cozy with nostalgic decor and multiple bars across two levels. Frequented by a diverse crowd, it offers specialty cocktails and TV screens throughout for entertainment.

A dive bar with a basement bar and live music on the main floor offers draft beer, a full bar, and food options. It feels like a favorite local spot with a cool vibe and respect for customers.

Cold, draft beer flows in a relaxed, chill dive bar setting with a full bar and food options. The vibe suits a laid-back afternoon or evening with friends.

People are saying

"The karaoke here is super fun and gets everyone excited."

"This bar has live music and karaoke on different sides."

"The beer here is great, thanks to the friendly bartender."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Tuesday night, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times on Thursdays for karaoke; plan for at least 1.5 hours.

3

The bar has a $5 cover charge at night for entry.

16
Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub image 1

Old school sports bar with many TVs showing multiple games and local team memorabilia creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Pool tables and interactive games add to the energetic vibe. The floor slants toward the back, giving the space a unique physical character.

Multiple screens show many games at once, creating a strong sports vibe. The bar offers a full bar with incredible service from bartenders who know their craft.

A wide variety of beer selections fills the taps and shelves. The spot offers a solid choice for anyone looking to find a specific brew or just relax with a cold one.

People are saying

"The vibe here for live sports is great."

"I found a great selection of local beer on draft."

"This bar is a wicked cool spot with many screens showing multiple games."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 drafts 10 minutes before it starts.

2

Expect a $90 bill for pizza, wings, and tater tots.

3

Food is ready upon arrival, ensuring quick service.

17
Howl at the Moon Chicago image 1

Rocking piano bar with live music and high energy atmosphere. Crowded seating near the stage creates an intimate vibe while the buzzing sound level keeps the energy lively. Specialty drinks come with sweet, cutesy presentations and the food offers elevated bar fare.

A dueling piano bar offers lively music and interactive entertainment. Staff act quickly to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.

Good beer selection with reasonable prices and plenty of options complements the live music well. The beer quality matches the energy of the shows.

People are saying

"You'll have so much fun; the crowd is always energized."

"This piano bar has insanely talented musicians playing great music."

"The beers here are good, and the live music is great."

Good to know

1

There is a $12 cover charge to enter the venue.

2

Happy hour offers the first two drinks for $2 each.

3

Dueling piano nights are popular and feature audience requests.

18
Lure Fishbar - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with quiet, elegant atmosphere and beautiful interior design featuring boat decor and funky wall art. Seating is comfortable and the space offers a small patio alongside plenty of indoor tables. The vibe suits a fancy dining experience rather than a casual, lively spot.

Bartenders work fast and stay friendly while mixing great cocktails. The bar offers a full selection of beers and wines alongside its drinks.

Selection includes tasty wines and beers but leans limited on beer variety. The bar offers a full range of drinks but does not focus on a relaxed beer atmosphere.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, high quality, and delicious."

"The bar team was fantastic, friendly, and fast."

"The beer selection here was tasty and wonderful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, including weekends.

2

Enjoy half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

19
Snickers Bar & Grill image 1

Dive bar with a wraparound bar, seven TVs, and an internet jukebox creates a lively, classic pub vibe. Front room buzzes with sports energy and regulars chatting, while back booths offer a cozier, relaxed setting. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with unpretentious laughter and casual dining.

A lively spot with classic dive-bar energy and friendly bartenders serving strong drinks at reasonable prices. The bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with a cozy back room and quick, easy service.

A large selection of international bottled beers is available, served cold as expected. Drinks include cheap beers with generous pours and a unique $3 mystery shot, making it easy to relax and enjoy.

People are saying

"This bar is a gritty, local hangout with a nostalgic vibe."

"I loved the gyros; they were surprisingly good."

"The beer selection here is great."

Good to know

1

The drink prices at Snickers Bar & Grill are reasonable for downtown Chicago.

2

They accept both credit card and cash payments.

3

The parking lot is small and often full, making parking challenging.

20
Redhead Piano Bar image 1

Piano bar offers live piano music with a phenomenal, engaging pianist in a small, crowded space that encourages standing and dancing. An outdoor cigar lounge provides additional seating with couches and ashtrays. The atmosphere is lively and packed, creating an intense but vibrant vibe.

A phenomenal piano musician leads the vibe, engaging the crowd with humor and skill. The bar offers a neighborhood feel with a great atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying drinks alongside live piano entertainment.

A wide selection of beer and alcohol flows freely, creating a lively vibe. People often enjoy their drinks while singing or relaxing by the piano.

People are saying

"This piano bar is the perfect spot to end your night."

"This bar has an incredible late-night vibe and live piano music."

"I sang with a beer in hand while enjoying the live piano music."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds on weekends, especially after 10 PM.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events or large groups.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekdays.

21
Parlay River North image 1

Sports bar offers a gorgeous rooftop bar with a beautiful view and a live DJ playing music during game breaks. Atmosphere combines great energy and vibes with multiple TVs for sports fans. Some seating areas feel crowded or poorly lit, but food includes standout items like chicken and waffles and stuffed French toast.

Offers a solid sports bar vibe with a focus on games and socializing. Service is quick and entry is free, encouraging longer visits.

Happy Hour offers a solid deal on beer and wings. Beers can take a bit to arrive, with waits around 13 minutes at the bar.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and absolutely delicious."

"The bar food here is delicious and a step above normal."

"The beer and wings are a great deal during happy hour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on beer and wings.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm.

3

Brunch includes bottomless mimosas for 90 minutes.

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