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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Quiet bars

You want a drink in a bar where the volume is low enough to hold a conversation without shouting.

Based on 469 Opinions
+466
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Updated May 2026
01
Brehon Pub image 1
Brehon Pub image 2
Brehon Pub image 3
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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.

A secretive back area stays quiet most nights, offering a calm spot. Midday visits find the place nice and quiet, good for watching a soccer match with a beer.

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.

People are saying

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

"This bar has friendly staff and great drinks."

"It's nice and quiet in the secretive back area."

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.

02
Marshall's Landing image 1
American restaurant

Space offers great river views and a wrap-around bar with comfortable seating. Atmosphere feels warm and versatile, suitable for quiet work or informal meetings, though music can be loud and varied. Private dining rooms overlook the river, supporting gatherings and events.

Quiet atmosphere suits studying and informal meetings. The space stays calm late into the night for winding down or starting the evening.

A wrap around bar offers a great view and plenty of space to relax. Staff work quickly, making it easy to enjoy day drinking in a laid-back setting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The bar's wrap-around design and gorgeous views make it perfect for hosting groups."

"It's a nice quiet place to wind down or get the night started."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Marshall's Landing is a popular spot for hosting corporate events and parties.

3

The venue offers a spacious area suitable for networking events.

03
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

The setting offers a quiet and elegant atmosphere with a beautiful environment that makes it easy to talk. Outdoor seating provides a relatively quiet spot even in a downtown area.

Seating at the back bar offers an attentive bartender who is knowledgeable. The bar often has availability even when the main dining is fully booked, making it a flavorful spot to enjoy drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The food here is fantastic, especially the hummus and pita."

"It's a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for conversation."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

04
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.

Rooms stay quiet and offer privacy, blocking out Downtown noise. Even with many guests, the hostel remains calm and peaceful.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"It was quiet and clean."

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.

05
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.

Quiet evenings feature a slow pace of service and a calm atmosphere. Happy hour and Sunday nights at the bar stay notably peaceful.

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

People are saying

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

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

"It's a quiet oasis where the city bustle falls away."

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.

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River North, Chicago

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