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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Cool beer spots

A cool bar that takes its beer list as seriously as its vibe, rather than settling for the same tired taps.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1
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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.

Cool artwork decorates the space, creating a unique vibe. Shirts with cool designs offer a fun souvenir option.

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."

"It's a cool, laid-back spot with good vibes."

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.

02
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.

A hidden speakeasy in the basement gives the place a cool, old Chicago vibe. The bar features lots of old bar merchandise that adds to its cool atmosphere.

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."

"It's a really cool spot with a unique speakeasy vibe."

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.

03
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.

Low lighting and candle-like decorations create a unique vibe. The bar feels super cool and stands out for its atmosphere.

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.

04
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.

Cocktail list offers a cool selection with unique options like photos on a Guinness or espresso martini. The bar maintains a somewhat family friendly vibe while staying cool overall.

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."

"I loved their cool, awesome selection of drinks."

"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.

05
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.

An upbeat yet swanky vibe sets the tone with great food and games adding to the cool atmosphere.

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."

"You can have fun playing ping pong and enjoying 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.

06
Rossi's image 1

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.

Strong drinks come at half the price of other bars in this old school spot. Picking your own beer adds a cool touch, while the friendly staff keeps the vibe welcoming and laid-back.

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."

"It's a cool dive bar with cheap drinks."

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.

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.

Immaculate vibes fill the space with funky art and aesthetic decor. The setup feels cool and intimate, paired with incredible music.

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

"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.

08
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.

Classic jazz and blues music create a cool atmosphere with old school Chicago style vibes. Live bands and singers keep the energy authentic and lively.

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."

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

"I found the atmosphere really cool during the blues concert."

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.

09
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.

Buzzing, modern, and energetic vibes create an effortlessly cool atmosphere. The digital shuffleboard scorekeeping adds a unique tech twist.

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 staff here are so cool and welcoming."

"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.

10
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 cool dive bar vibe fills the space with lively atmosphere and chill staff. Drinks come out solid while the decor and live band add to the overall cool feel.

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."

"It's a cool little gem with great vibes and music."

"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.

11
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.

Piano bar vibes set a cool tone with good music and a great atmosphere. Emo night adds a unique edge to the overall cool experience.

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."

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

"The atmosphere here is really cool, especially during emo night."

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.

12
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.

Atmosphere feels relaxing with a cool vibe. Staff stay responsive and add to the laid-back mood.

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 great little dive bar with fairly priced drinks."

"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.

13
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.

Many screens show multiple games, creating a sports-focused vibe. The place has a dive bar atmosphere that feels relaxed and casual.

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."

"It's a cool spot with a lively pub atmosphere."

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.

14
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.

A cool vibe fills the space with a friendly staff that stays calm even when busy. It works well as a spot for groups to grab drinks and food.

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 manager stayed cool and friendly even with the bar packed."

"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.

15
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.

Outdoor cigar-smoking area hides behind a secret path, giving an exclusive vibe. Redhead Piano Bar hosts live music and draws cool people from around the world.

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."

"It's a cool place with live piano music and a lively crowd."

"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.

16
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 cool atmosphere fills the space with a nice vibe and a crowd of cool people.

Buckets of beer and cocktails come at a decent price when sharing with a group. Staff sometimes charge extra for additional drinks and may ask to order more bottles instead of just beer at the table.

People are saying

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

"I found the atmosphere and people here to be really cool."

"I found the beer selection here to be great."

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.

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