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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Chill and cool spots

Made for those who gravitate toward spaces that possess an effortless sense of style and a relaxed social energy.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
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Updated May 2026
01
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 2
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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.

A chill vibe fills the brewery, making the city's hustle fade away. Staff stay super friendly, and the music keeps things fun and relaxed.

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

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 chill place to unwind and relax after walking around."

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
Bar Moxy image 1

Huge space filled with board games and foosball competitions creates a lively yet laid-back vibe. Comfortable seating and a DJ spinning tunes keep energy relaxed without overwhelming. Drinks come with a professional yet cool atmosphere suited for groups or dates.

A nice chill vibe fills the space, making it great for an after work hangout. The atmosphere stays fun and relaxed throughout.

A professional yet cool atmosphere sets the tone here. The spot offers low-key vibes and a friendly environment that feels welcoming without being loud.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and attentive."

"I enjoyed late night tacos and drinks in this inviting space."

"The vibes here are unmatched and totally cool."

Good to know

1

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

2

The bar is popular for both hotel guests and locals, creating a mixed crowd.

3

Drinks typically cost over $15, so budget accordingly.

03
CBR image 1
Bar

Bar inside a hotel with dim lighting and cute furniture creates a relaxed, cool vibe that feels like catching up with old friends. DJs play great music, adding to the lively atmosphere especially during special occasions. The place draws people looking for a chill brunch spot with impressive cocktails and a well-regarded menu.

A very chill brunch spot with a vibe that helps you unwind easily.

Relaxed ambiance sets a cool vibe throughout the space. The bathroom also stands out with its pretty cool design.

People are saying

"Happy Hour craft cocktails and modern American dishes were delicious."

"The steak and salad here are perfectly cooked and seasoned."

"The steak here is cooked perfectly with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4 pm to 6 pm.

2

Cocktails during happy hour are priced between $8-12.

3

Draft beers, ciders, and house wines are available at happy hour prices.

04
Zombie Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant inside a hotel lobby offers a funky atmosphere with old arcade games and live DJs on weekends. The space includes a bar area where check-in happens, creating a lively vibe. Seating areas feature board games and kiosks for ordering, blending casual dining with entertainment.

Ample seating and games create a fun, chill vibe. The atmosphere stays casual and relaxed, perfect for quick food and unwinding.

The spot features a cool hotel bar vibe with plenty of games and a couple of arcade cabinets. The atmosphere ties closely to the MOXY hotel, creating a nice and cool environment throughout.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the breakfast burritos."

"The bartender Simon was the best, making our experience a true delight."

"The atmosphere here is super chill and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6pm with great deals on food and drinks.

2

A DJ performs on Friday and Saturday nights, enhancing the nightlife experience.

3

Weekend vibe nights at the Moxy Hotel feature lively music and a vibrant atmosphere.

05
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 studying and informal meetings happen in a relaxed environment. The spot feels calm and suits those looking to unwind.

A laid-back spot with a massive environment and an amazing view. The vibe stays cool and welcoming for afternoon lounging and day drinking.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"It's a beautiful, relaxing spot to chill and unwind."

"This spot is cool with an amazing view."

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.

06
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 chill vibe sets the tone here with a very relaxed atmosphere. It suits a casual bite and drinks without fuss.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I experienced a great, chill vibe here."

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.

07
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.

Locals here are super chill and the vibe stays casual. It’s a good spot to unwind without fuss.

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

People are saying

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

"It's a great little dive bar with fairly priced drinks."

"It's a chill spot with a welcoming, casual 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.

08
TARY image 1
Cafe

Cozy, minimal café with authentic Kazakh decor and subtle cultural elements creates a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi support work or socializing, while unique Central Asian pastries and dishes offer a distinct culinary experience.

Soft instrumental music sets a chill atmosphere perfect for unwinding or light work. Casual seating invites relaxed hangouts over coffee or meals with friends.

Kazakhstan-inspired design shapes the space with art on the walls and tea kettle details. Kazakh music plays in the background, adding to the unique vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"It's a really chill place to hang out and relax."

"It's a cool little coffee shop with a modern, upscale interior."

Good to know

1

Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles only, leading to potential tickets.

2

TARY serves unique Central Asian pastries and drinks not found elsewhere.

3

The cafe gets packed, making tables hard to get at times.

09
Watershed Bar image 1

Speakeasy-style bar with an old school decor featuring CDs and vinyl records creates a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere. Comfortable seating and light music foster a chill, intimate vibe where patrons can request songs and enjoy a solid bourbon selection.

Upscale basement vibe with comfy chairs creates a setting like a dead poets society. The atmosphere stays consistently super chill.

Funky bartender Logan offers good tastes. Located in a high demand area, this bar has a cool vibe.

People are saying

"It's a classy speakeasy with a quaint and cozy atmosphere."

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

"It's a classy, chill place with an upscale basement vibe."

Good to know

1

The rotating cocktail list and knowledgeable bartenders keep the experience interesting.

2

Drink prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The bar is located in a high demand area, so expect a lively atmosphere.

10
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.

Great vibes and excellent bar service create a chill atmosphere. The decor mixes modern elegance with cozy touches, fitting for casual hangouts or celebrations.

Rooftop offers a cool space with relaxing upbeat music and cool decor. The atmosphere stays consistently cool and inviting throughout the day.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"RJ the bartender makes the chill vibe unforgettable with great conversation."

"The rooftop views are beautiful, especially at sunset."

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.

11
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.

A super chill dive bar with a diverse crowd right in the heart of downtown. The vibe stays relaxed and easygoing.

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.

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.

12
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 1

Italian restaurant offers traditional focaccia sandwiches with fresh ingredients and large portions. Atmosphere feels authentic and quaint, with lively music and bright, cute decor featuring Aperol and Campari bottles. Outdoor patio seating adds to the welcoming vibe.

A very casual and clean environment sets a chill vibe here, making it easy to relax while enjoying fresh and healthy food in a fast casual setting.

Atmosphere feels really cool for a quicker service spot. Music selection adds to the nice vibe.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be delicious and amazing."

"The sandwiches here are seriously good and always fresh."

"The focaccia really makes the paninis extra good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from Wednesday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm.

2

During happy hour, spirits and wine are $9, and Italian boards are 50% off.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

13
Dave’s Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Outdoor and indoor spaces feature colorful artwork and a vibrant, lively atmosphere with loud 1980s rock music. Staff engage actively, often dancing, creating a welcoming and energetic vibe. Seating includes a spacious patio and walk-up counter service.

A super chill atmosphere with great music sets a fun and casual vibe. Friendly service and a casual setting make it easy to stop by for a quick meal.

Artwork in the space stands out with sick designs and the decor adds a cool vibe throughout. The place stays super clean and keeps a consistently cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and full of flavor."

"The chicken sandwich here is so crispy and flavorful."

"The place felt super cool and clean."

Good to know

1

Dave’s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

14
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.

Casual vibe sets the tone with a laid-back dress code and a spot to skip the crowd. Live music creates a space to chill late at night without fuss.

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.

People are saying

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

"It's a casual place with great music to chill."

"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.

15
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy décor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Vibes stay chill and upbeat with immaculate music selections. Atmosphere feels easy to enjoy and relaxed.

The spot has an interesting atmosphere with cool decor that stands out. The overall vibe feels cool and relaxed.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The shrimp deviled egg was cool, and the food was excellent."

"The vibe here is super chill with an amazing music playlist."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

16
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.

A chill vibe blends with a lively, contemporary atmosphere. The spot offers fun casual play with shuffleboard and specials that keep things relaxed.

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

People are saying

"The food and drinks here were excellent."

"The staff here are so cool and welcoming."

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

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.

17
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.

Super chill and loud, this spot works well for casual drinks and hanging out. It’s easy to strike up fun conversations with strangers here.

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

People are saying

"The vibe here for live sports is great."

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

"It's a fun dive bar where you can just hang out and have a casual drink."

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.

18
VELA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space channels sophisticated Mexican vibes with warm, vibrant design inspired by Mexico City. Music shifts from chill to loud with a live DJ mixing house, reggaeton, and hip hop, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy upscale casual energy with comfortable seating and standout cocktails.

Upscale casual venue with a chill vibe and ambient lighting. The atmosphere feels moody and quiet, creating a relaxed setting.

Gorgeous atmosphere sets a cool vibe throughout the space. The overall feel stays consistently pretty cool.

People are saying

"The food here has flavor profiles that are above and beyond."

"It's super chill with quiet, ambient lighting."

"The atmosphere here is pretty cool with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 off cocktails and half-price appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant hosts a popup event with their sister restaurant every month.

19
Celeste image 1
Night club

Four floors offer distinct vibes, from a local bar feel to a jungle-themed rooftop with LED light dance floors. Music varies by level, featuring passionate DJs and diverse scenes for dancing or relaxing. The venue maintains a clean, upscale style with a lively, fun atmosphere throughout.

The first floor offers a nice chill bar vibe with plenty of options. Sitting at the bar works well for a casual drink or a relaxed night with friends.

Four stories offer different vibes from moody to art deco. Live DJs spin cool music while calm, cool doormen keep the mood steady.

People are saying

"You can hear great DJs and dance all night at this nightclub."

"The vibes here are pretty cool and differ floor to floor."

"It's a nice chill bar with different floors for different vibes."

Good to know

1

Entry is free before 11pm on Saturday night.

2

A $20 cover charge applies for men, while women enter for free.

3

Disco starts at 9:00 p.m. on weekends.

20
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.

Warmly lit public areas and a speakeasy-like lobby create a chill atmosphere. Staff stay cool and friendly, making the space feel safe and relaxed.

Shared space, bar, and lounge have a cool vibe. The hotel feels charming and avoids a corporate atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"The staff's kindness and hospitality gave me a fantastic start to my morning."

Good to know

1

Expect a mandatory resort fee of $15–40 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.

21
Su Casa Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful decor and a mural telling cultural stories create an authentic Mexican atmosphere with a cozy yet open layout. Outdoor seating is abundant, and a bar with televisions adds a lively touch. Complimentary group photos and occasional live Mariachi music contribute to a festive vibe.

Casual and relaxed vibe sets the tone here. The atmosphere stays chill and easygoing, making it a great spot to hang out for hours.

Cool vibe comes from the chill atmosphere and characteristic building. The decor adds to the picture-worthy setting that invites hanging out for hours.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is so delicious and authentic."

"It's a super chill and casual spot, perfect for a relaxed night out."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, valid only at the counter.

2

Couples special available on Valentine's Day.

3

A parking garage is on the same block, with SpotHero reservations.

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