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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to River North

Nightlife bars

Made for those who view a night out as a high-energy pursuit of the most vibrant social scenes.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Shamrock Club image 1
Shamrock Club image 2
Shamrock Club image 3
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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.

A traditional sports and dive bar vibe dominates with a divey atmosphere and free popcorn at the bar. Service happens all at the bar, making it a straightforward spot to unwind after work or celebrate events like St Patrick's Day.

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."

"It's a chill spot to unwind with a friendly, welcoming vibe."

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.

02
Charlie Martin's image 1

Cozy space with Hollywood regency decor and mood lighting creates a speakeasy vibe. Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails, including standout Old Fashioneds and martinis. Atmosphere suits jazzy date nights and sophisticated dining with white tablecloths.

Gorgeous bar with a classic Chicago vibe despite being new. Bartender Colin knows his craft well.

An intimate supper club with a 1950s vibe offers a unique nightlife experience. The atmosphere blends old fashioned supper club charm with Hollywood nights energy.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"Colin at the bar makes the best Old Fashioneds."

"It's like stepping back in time to a classic supper club."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

03
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.

Outdoor lounge tables by the firepit create a relaxed vibe for groups and dogs. Friendly hosts add to the welcoming atmosphere that invites easy socializing.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

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

"RJ, the bartender, made our nightlife unforgettable with his amazing cocktails."

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.

04
Arbella image 1
Cocktail bar

Large space divides into distinct atmospheres with comfortable booths and a lively club room. Music features a DJ-driven sound system playing chill, high-energy tunes that shape a fun, unpretentious vibe. Patrons include stylish young crowds, but the atmosphere welcomes all ages for drinks and conversation.

Cocktail menu shows clear thought and creativity. Bar staff deliver exceptional service in a setting with amazing ambiance and lounge electronic music.

A club vibe kicks in from Thursday to Saturday around 10 PM with lounge electronic music setting the tone. The club room's chaos stays separate from the quieter restaurant area, keeping the space balanced.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and creatively made."

"This bar has expertly crafted cocktails with unique flavor profiles."

"The cocktails here are adventurous and perfectly mixed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 PM Monday to Saturday with limited menu options.

3

Arbella turns into a club starting around 10 PM from Thursday to Saturday.

05
Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago image 1

Cozy, dark basement setting blends 70s funk and tiki bar vibes with a hidden, tucked-away layout. Live jazz and DJ sets create an energetic yet civilized atmosphere where people chat and relax. Seating offers ample lounging space near bars that face both street and interior areas.

Cozy, dark, and hidden, the bar offers a unique atmosphere with a mix of 70s funk and tiki vibes. Bartenders provide excellent service and create a welcoming space, especially for solo women, ensuring comfort and safety.

A chill lounge vibe sets the mood with a well balanced cocktail menu and club-level music volume. The bar feels cute and the servers bring a fun, friendly energy.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and delightfully complex."

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

"The cocktails here are strong, creative, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $4 off cocktails, but check for specific times.

2

The bar closes an hour earlier than usual on some nights.

3

Parking can be challenging in front of the bar.

06
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.

An intimate spot with a down and dirty blues vibe offers an authentic experience. The club has a hallowed atmosphere that captures the true spirit of blues nightlife.

People are saying

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

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

"The live blues music here is amazing, truly the real deal."

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.

07
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.

Combining a jazz club, supper club, and restaurant creates a unique nightlife vibe. The space suits special events like weddings and anniversaries, offering great food and impeccable service.

People are saying

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

"The staff made my birthday celebration feel so special."

"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.

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.

Live music drives the energy with exceptional talent performing classics like Bohemian Rhapsody and recent hits such as Pink Pony Club. A piano duel adds a unique twist to the positive vibe throughout the club.

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 nightlife here is fantastic, with talented musicians playing classics and hits."

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
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a modern jazz inspired design with upstairs loft featuring live music and pool table. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and intimate dining to a lively late-night hangout with DJs and bands. Decor includes quirky records and stylish interiors creating a warm, upbeat vibe.

Upstairs seating offers a vintage lounge vibe with billiards, old records, and a bar. The bar serves creative cocktails and late night dining options like pulpo carpaccio.

Upstairs offers a vintage lounge vibe with billiards, old records, and a full bar. The loft feels more open with a relaxed lounge atmosphere and live music.

People are saying

"You honestly canโ€™t go wrong with the outrageously good pasta here."

"The bartender Emiliano is personable and makes amazing drinks."

"Emiliano's passion and artistry make the nightlife here second to none."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating.

2

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

3

The loft space converts into a club after 10pm with a DJ and dancing.

10
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse blends trendy club vibe with live DJ sets and bold neon decor. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, with music often loud enough to dominate conversations. Cocktails stand out as fresh and flavorful highlights amid the setting.

Olivia stands out with her welcoming spirit and attentive care, making the bar feel comfortable. Nick, Anthony, and Val provide great service and offer solid recommendations while paying close attention to guests.

A club atmosphere dominates with loud music typical of a young adult club. The noise level makes conversation difficult and the vibe is not suited for quiet or romantic settings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The bar service here is awesome and attentive."

"The nightlife here feels like a young adult club with loud, danceable music."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak dining hours.

3

Cocktails are priced at $9 during happy hour.

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.

Live music fills the lounge every night, creating an upbeat atmosphere. The beautiful lounge area offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the entertainment with attentive and quick service.

People are saying

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

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

"The steaks here are so flavorful, they melt in your mouth."

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.

12
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 speak-easy style cigar lounge offers a cozy, calm atmosphere with attentive service. The outside deck and live music at the piano bar add to the relaxed nightlife vibe.

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 nightlife here has great music and a welcoming 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.

13
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf facility offers state-of-the-art simulators with detailed swing analytics and multiple bays in a spacious venue. Atmosphere combines fun, welcoming vibes with top-tier music and varied games like ping pong and duckpin bowling. Suitable for all ages, it balances entertainment and skill development in a lively setting.

Golf simulator and bar combine for a unique spot. Bar offers great food and drinks, but ordering can be confusing since staff at check-in is absent and you must get the bartender's attention yourself.

State of the art golf bays show ball contact, speed, and distance clearly. Expert advice on club fitting and TrackMan technology helps improve your game without needing to bring your own clubs.

People are saying

"The staff here makes your fun activities feel so welcoming and helpful."

"The team's passion and clear instruction made me feel confident."

"The bar staff made me feel so at home and comfortable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be limited in downtown Chicago.

2

Prices for simulator rentals are on the higher side.

3

Late-night happy hour on Saturdays features $5 wings and $6 whiskey lemonades.

14
Moe's Cantina - River North image 1
Mexican restaurant

Massive Mexican restaurant with ample seating and a unique design that shifts into a nightclub on weekends. Lively atmosphere with energetic music, including reggaeton and clear TV audio for games. Outdoor seating and artistic decor add to the vibrant vibe.

A vibrant bar scene includes an attentive bartender who ensures drinks are well served without rushing. The spot features a casual vibe with small plates and a notable Encanto Agave Bar in the back.

Vibrant nightlife centers on a great dance club atmosphere with efficient bartenders enhancing the experience. Security staff provide helpful directions, supporting a smooth night out.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the Mexican food experience so friendly and attentive."

"The bartenders at the bar were so friendly and attentive."

"Miguel was the highlight of my night, super nice and professional."

Good to know

1

Expect a $20 cover charge for entry during club hours.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

All guests must arrive together to avoid additional cover charges.

15
Freehand Chicago image 1

Retro art deco style hotel combines chic lobby with a lively bar scene featuring a spacious bar and fast internet. Rooms offer comfortable beds and clean amenities, while the lounge area provides a relaxed vibe contrasting the nightclub energy downstairs.

Ample seating, mood lighting, and good music create a relaxed vibe at the lobby bar. The breakfast bar offers great coffee and a solid breakfast to start the day.

Beautiful lounge area offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe. Cozy and spacious bar and lounge serve drinks like gin and tonic with excellent music.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and super fun."

"The rooms felt cool and stylish with a modern design."

"The location is perfect for nightlife, letting you walk anywhere easily."

Good to know

1

Expect a mandatory resort fee of $15โ€“40 per night not included in the initial price.

2

Breakfast is included in the morning for all guests.

3

Security on the floors is lacking, making the area feel unsafe after dark.

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River North, Chicago

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