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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of River North

Live music bars

You want to hear live music without having to shout over the band to order your next drink.

Based on 604 Opinions
+601
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Updated May 2026
01
Stardust image 1
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Two floors offer distinct atmospheres with dueling piano performances upstairs and a DJ-driven speakeasy downstairs. The space combines futuristic and astrology-themed decor with energetic, authentic Chicago vibes. Music ranges from jazz and blues to R&B, creating a lively and friendly environment.

A dueling piano bar upstairs offers lively entertainment with jazz, blues, and piano performances. The bar stays open until 4 AM and features a piano karaoke setup for a unique, creative vibe.

Live music features a mix of karaoke, live piano singing, and DJ sets that energize the space. The music creates a lively atmosphere in this cocktail bar and late night spot.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are super friendly and welcoming."

"I loved the fantastic live music and the energy it created."

"The decor here is super cool, mixing diner vibes with astrology."

Good to know

1

Parking garages are nearby, and street parking is available.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash may be preferred.

3

The venue features live jazz, blues, and piano performances regularly.

02
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.

Phenomenal live band music plays late into the night, creating a cozy spot downtown. The shows offer top-notch entertainment that transports listeners to another time and place.

People are saying

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

"I experienced authentic blues music in a small club."

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

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.

03
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club blends live jazz music with a cozy, lively atmosphere featuring dark wood and colorful jazz-inspired wallpaper. Dining spaces include a private room with a bar, creating intimate vibes amid a bustling crowd. The setting combines elements of a jazz club and restaurant for a unique experience.

Warm and friendly atmosphere with a creative cocktail menu crafted by skilled bar chefs. Options include non-alcoholic choices like Tost NA Rose, and a larger lounge space offers live music for events.

Excellent live jazz band performances create a vibrant atmosphere. A larger space called The Lounge hosts live music for about 100 guests during welcome receptions.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and delicious."

"The live music here is amazing, especially the cocktails."

"You have to try the beef Wellington at the bar; it's top-notch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made well in advance.

2

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

3

Valet parking costs $16 for three hours, making it convenient for guests.

04
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop bar offering spectacular city views and multiple seating options including fire pits and private couches. Live music creates a lively atmosphere that balances well with conversation. Cocktails and food receive strong praise, contributing to an overall vibrant and welcoming vibe.

Rooftop bar offers great views and a lively atmosphere. Happy hour runs daily from 5-7pm with great cocktails and attentive service.

A live Jazz trio plays on the terrace, creating a fantastic ambiance that blends well with the setting. The music adds to the atmosphere without overpowering conversation.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"The bar staff, especially Trevor, were the sweetest and best."

"The live jazz trio really added to the lovely evening."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available 7 days a week from 5-7pm.

2

Reservations are typically required, but walk-ins may be accommodated if available.

3

The happy hour offers a great selection of drinks and appetizers at unbeatable prices.

05
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.

Fridays feature live music with amazing singers and dancing. The vibe stays fun and enjoyable throughout the performances.

People are saying

"This Irish pub feels like stepping into Dublin."

"I found the live music here to be enjoyable and the singers amazing."

"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.

06
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

Bartenders like Derrick and Julio craft amazing cocktails and help pick drinks that match your meal. The bar area works well for celebrations and offers drinks like a stellar Old Fashioned.

Live piano music plays throughout, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The setting blends an old-school steakhouse vibe with a historic ambiance.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"The bartenders here make amazing cocktails."

"The live piano music really added to the charming atmosphere."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

07
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.

Live music features singers and bands performing with fantastic sound quality. The atmosphere supports enjoying music during dinner or casual visits.

People are saying

"The live music here sounds fantastic."

"The vibe here is cool, with funky art and aesthetic decor."

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

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.

08
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.

High-energy live band plays a wide variety of songs and switches instruments often. The music is talented, amazing, and keeps the atmosphere fun.

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 live music here is amazing and the band is so entertaining."

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.

09
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.

Basement bar hosts live bands and karaoke with sound separation between them. Main floor features live jazz and funk music alongside games and pool, creating an electric atmosphere nightly.

People are saying

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

"The live music here is spectacular and creates a fun atmosphere."

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

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.

10
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.

Live music features phenomenal piano performances with artists who take requests and interact with the crowd. The music creates a great late night vibe that lasts into the early morning.

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."

"The live music here creates a great late-night vibe."

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.

11
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space features dim, cozy lighting and live music performances that create a romantic, upscale atmosphere. The lounge offers an upbeat vibe with talented singers and pianists providing background entertainment. Seating is close together, enhancing a lively, intimate feel.

Live singer adds energy while a large bar offers a wide selection of alcohol. TVs and good seating create a comfortable vibe, and the bar manager makes cocktail recommendations and offers a Port tasting.

A talented piano player and singer performs live, creating a personal touch by singing requested songs and celebrating birthdays. The venue features a large bar with a wide selection of alcohol, good seating, and well-lit spaces with TVs and music.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and friendly staff."

"The live music here is pretty cool and adds to the atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available and recommended for convenience.

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