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Local picks

Cocktails in River North

Made for those who appreciate the craft of a well-mixed drink as a standalone experience.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
The Franklin Room image 1
The Franklin Room image 2
The Franklin Room image 3
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New American restaurant

Underground space offers a high-end speakeasy vibe with rich fabrics and carved woodwork. Cocktails shine with handcrafted creativity, especially the Long Train to Fresno. Cozy setting and specialty whiskey make it perfect for refined drinkers.

Cocktails feature a perfect blend of handcrafted creativity and unique flavors. The Long Train to Fresno stands out as a phenomenal, drinkable choice among well crafted options.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

"I found their whiskey selection to be extensive and impressive."

"The bartenders are so skilled and engaging, they elevate the whole evening."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

02
The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash image 1

Small bar with intimate seating offers a cozy vibe filled with tiki decor and jungle jazz music. Bartenders craft complex rum cocktails that are unique and visually stunning. Perfect for quiet nights or special occasions in a private lounge setting.

Cocktails here are wonderfully complex and very unique, often featuring amazing rum in an intimate setting. Specialty drinks stand out for their satisfying flavors and picturesque presentation.

People are saying

"The drinks here are incredible, with amazing rum selections."

"The drinks here are expertly crafted and truly outstanding."

"I loved the intimate vibe and amazing rum cocktails."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating with only 14 seats available.

2

The bar offers four different rum flights for enthusiasts.

3

Special events like Galentines are hosted regularly.

03
Ila's Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Beautiful design and warm lighting create a relaxed atmosphere with unique cocktails like Ube Sour and Midnight in Mumbai. Comfortable furniture makes it a home away from home. Chill music adds to the inviting vibe throughout the evening.

Drinks feature unique, refined flavors like the Ube Sour and Midnight in Mumbai. The cocktail program offers balanced, thoughtfully presented options including The Quinn and Ube Pisco Sour.

People are saying

"The dinner here was incredible, especially the short rib chilaquiles."

"The cocktails here are unique, refined, and delicious."

"It's so cozy and warm inside, with gorgeous decor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

The menu features a variety of unique dishes, including gluten-free options.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

04
VELA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space channels sophisticated Mexican vibes with vibrant design and a live DJ mixing house, reggaeton, and hip hop for a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy upscale casual energy with comfortable seating and standout cocktails featuring a top-tier tequila selection and the Carrajillo de Olla.

Cocktails feature a top-tier tequila selection and include standout drinks like the Carrajillo de Olla. Staff provide superb guidance to help choose from an amazing menu during happy hour and beyond.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here are phenomenal, with recommendations that are spot-on."

"It's a great spot for date night with a moody, intimate atmosphere."

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.

05
Charlie Martin's image 1

Cozy spot with Hollywood regency decor sets a speakeasy mood. Bartenders serve exceptional Old Fashioneds and martinis with fresh ingredients. Perfect for jazzy date nights and sophisticated dining under white tablecloths.

Cocktails here are bursting with fresh ingredients and come strong. The bartender crafts unique, lush drinks like excellent Old Fashioneds and helps pick great options.

People are saying

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

"The French food here is phenomenal, with bold, refined flavors."

"Colin makes exceptional cocktails here."

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.

06
CBR image 1
Bar

Bar inside a hotel offers a relaxed vibe with dim lighting and cute furniture. Craft cocktails like the Ay Kiwi shine during happy hour with drinks priced $8-12. DJs add a lively atmosphere making it a chill brunch spot with a well-regarded menu.

Craft cocktails stand out with options like the Ay Kiwi. Happy hour offers drinks priced between $8-12, including draft beers, ciders, and house wines, all paired with modern American dishes.

People are saying

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

"The Steak And Eggs here was elevated in quality."

"You have to try the Ay Kiwi; it's the best cocktail I've had."

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.

07
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy seating. Cocktails shine with tart, refreshing Negroni and well-crafted options. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed to refined, perfect for drinks or meals.

Cocktails here are tart, bitter, and refreshing with options like the Negroni and Mixed Blessings standing out. The bar offers a solid happy hour menu and mixes drinks that balance flavor without being overly sweet.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"The homemade pasta here is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The cocktails here are excellent and hit the mark."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

08
Zombie Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco spot inside a hotel lobby buzzes with live DJs and old arcade games. Cocktails shine with blood orange martini and skilled bartenders. Seating offers board games and kiosks, mixing fun with casual dining.

Craft cocktails feature prominently with options like a blood orange martini and the Moxy. Bartenders show strong knowledge of spirits, delivering tasty and creative drinks alongside local beers.

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."

"I thought Quinn made great cocktails."

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.

09
Electric Shuffle Chicago image 1

Shuffleboard with high-tech tracking meets a stylish bar with throwback decor and live DJ music. Bartenders like Raul craft fantastic cocktails such as the โ€˜son of a peach.โ€™ The place buzzes with vibrant social energy and a fun, competitive vibe.

Bartenders like Raul, Deja, and Maya craft fantastic cocktails with great attention to detail. Drinks like the โ€˜son of a peachโ€™ stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here were excellent."

"It's great fun for a date or with friends."

"The cocktails here are delicious and made by fantastic bartenders."

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
No Vacancy image 1
Restaurant

Dark academia decor sets a classy yet casual vibe with comfortable bar seating and large screen TVs for games. Craft cocktails like the banana chocolate old fashioned pair perfectly with steak sliders. Weekend DJs keep the atmosphere fun and welcoming.

Craft cocktails stand out with a cool cocktail list featuring unique options like the banana chocolate old fashioned. Drinks pair well with steak sliders for a solid combo.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the steak sliders; the steak is so tender."

"I found the cocktails to be creative and well made."

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.

11
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

Upscale steakhouse shines with perfectly cooked steaks and a welcoming outdoor patio filled with plants and shade. Cocktails blend light floral flavors with classics, served by friendly staff. Stylish decor and a flowered canopy create a warm, inviting vibe.

Cocktails here offer a mix of light, floral flavors and balanced, flavorful classics. The lounge staff are welcoming and the weekend brunch features bottomless cocktails alongside specialty drinks.

People are saying

"The steak here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly seasoned."

"They made my birthday celebration unforgettable with a special dessert."

"The cocktails here are amazing and the staff makes you feel so welcome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, including weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

3

Half off bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

12
Yasemi, A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Spacious restaurant offers a modern, elegant decor with a casual, chic vibe and loud music. Happy Hour shines with unique cocktails like blood orange Paloma and kiwi kefi, known for their delicious flavors and stunning presentation. Dim lighting means tables need personal lights to read menus.

Happy Hour features unique cocktails at a very reasonable price. Drinks like the blood orange Paloma and kiwi kefi stand out for their delicious flavors and stunning presentation.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh and delicious, especially the hummus."

"The chicken and beef kebabs are perfectly grilled and full of flavor."

"I stopped in for happy hour and the cocktails were a great deal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with unique cocktails at reasonable prices.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters during happy hour, a great deal for seafood lovers.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% surcharge to all bills, so plan accordingly.

13
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse boasts a stylish dining room with a relaxed yet upmarket vibe. Expertly crafted cocktails perfectly complement the coal-cooked steaks. Private rooms suit both intimate dinners and business meetings.

Cocktails here pair well with the food, especially the great steaks. Drinks complement the menu with wonderful flavors.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The dinner service here is efficient and genuinely hilarious."

"The cocktails here were amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

14
Arbella image 1
Cocktail bar

Large space offers distinct atmospheres with comfy booths and a lively club room. DJ-driven sound system plays chill, high-energy tunes creating a fun vibe. Cocktails shine with Smokeyโ€™s Sidepiece and a creative, extensive menu.

Cocktails here are creatively made with an extensive drinks menu featuring unique and well-balanced options. Smokeyโ€™s Sidepiece stands out as a notable favorite among the offerings.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and creatively made."

"The dimly lit atmosphere is gorgeous for a romantic date night."

"The DJ played awesome, vibey music."

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.

15
City Nikki's image 1

Bar features a spacious outdoor patio with city views and lively energy during sports games on big screens. Handcrafted cocktails shine thanks to amazing bartenders and a solid specialty menu. Crowd enjoys casual comfort with good food in a polished yet relaxed setting.

Handcrafted cocktails stand out with amazing bartenders like Lee and a well-executed cocktail program by Chris. The menu offers a solid variety of specialty cocktails that pair well with the food.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and great."

"I found the handcrafted cocktails here to be interesting and excellent."

"The spacious patio is perfect for relaxing with friends and family."

Good to know

1

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

2

Sunday funday features special promotions and a lively atmosphere.

3

The back patio is available for seating, perfect for warm evenings.

16
Shanghai Terrace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open terrace offers shaded patio seating with spectacular views and a lively vibe. Cocktails shine, especially the smoky cocktail, paired with traditional Chinese dishes. Indoor spaces feel elegant but slightly worn, perfect for special occasions.

A great selection of cocktails pairs well with traditional Chinese dishes. The smoky cocktail stands out among the well-crafted drinks.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best Chinese food I've found."

"The outdoor terrace has a great energy and perfect atmosphere."

"I loved the cocktails here; they were really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must at this place.

2

Expect higher prices compared to typical Chinese restaurants.

3

The terrace offers a nice view, especially for outdoor dining.

17
Private Affairs image 1
Restaurant

Cozy yet chic dining room offers exceptional lighting and artful plating for a fresh experience. Botanical cocktails shine with solid execution, though tea cocktails are less favored. Atmosphere blends beautiful decor with a unique clubby soundtrack in the afternoon.

Botanical cocktails stand out with solid execution. Tea cocktails and Rishi tea rate lower, and tea and cocktails are now ordered separately, not as a combined service.

People are saying

"I went for the Tipsy Tea and the cocktails were a unique experience."

"The food here is thoughtful, surprising, and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

2

The Tipsy Tea experience costs $65 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant is located behind another establishment, making it hard to find.

18
Akiro Hand Roll Bar image 1
Japanese restaurant

Counter seating offers a lively view of chefs crafting fresh sushi. Chic decor sets an elegant vibe downtown. Cocktails impress with well-crafted drinks and a standout jasmine fizz non-alcoholic option.

Cocktails here stand out for being consistently amazing and well-crafted. The jasmine fizz offers a notable non-alcoholic option that complements the menu.

People are saying

"The sushi chefs here are amazing and give great recommendations."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The cocktails here were amazing and excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights like New Year's Eve.

2

The restaurant specializes in Nikkei cuisine, blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

3

Expect tight seating arrangements, which may affect dining comfort.

19
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors shine alongside outstanding cocktails at a rooftop bar with spectacular city views. Multiple seating options like fire pits and private couches create a lively yet cozy vibe. Live music adds energy without overpowering conversation.

Cocktails here feature a unique choice and are often described as outstanding and gorgeous. Both alcoholic and mocktail options taste really good, and service complements the drinks well.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

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

"You can get a great cocktail with spanning city views."

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.

20
The Wellsley image 1
Event venue

Art deco design and intimate lighting create a stunning setting with two dining rooms and an upstairs lounge. Classic and original cocktails shine with excellent service and deep expertise. Loud, nightclub-style music and weekend DJs add a cinematic energy that livens the atmosphere.

Great classic and original cocktails come with excellent service and deep expertise on wine and cocktails.

People are saying

"The bar staff are so engaging and friendly, even when busy."

"The French food here is delicious and beautifully plated."

"You'll feel right at home with their excellent cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

The restaurant is currently only hosting private events until the end of the year.

21
Bar Moxy image 1

Huge space with board games and foosball sets a lively vibe. Quinn serves strong cocktails that stand out. Comfortable seating and a DJ keep energy relaxed for groups or dates.

Quinn crafts strong cocktails that stand out. The menu offers a good selection of drinks including beer and cocktails worth trying.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and attentive."

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

"Quinn made the best cocktails I've ever had."

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.

22
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends modern jazz design with a lively atmosphere that shifts from intimate dining to energetic late-night hangouts. Cocktails like Terzetto and Strawberry Cannoli complement pasta and desserts perfectly. Upstairs loft hosts live music and a pool table, adding to the upbeat vibe.

Cocktails include the Terzetto and Strawberry Cannoli, served during events like a 75-person upstairs party. Drinks pair well with pasta, wine, and dessert offerings.

People are saying

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

"The Italian food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I enjoyed the creative cocktails and delicious drinks here."

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.

23
LIA Tavern image 1
Restaurant

Space blends modern art with dining, featuring Jackson Pollock-inspired decor and a gallery vibe. Cocktails offer unique flavors and artistic looks, with a rare $10 happy hour. Music supports chat, creating a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.

Cocktails come with unique flavor profiles and artistic presentation. Daily happy hour offers $10 drinks, while regular cocktails cost $12, which is rare in the city.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and visually impressive."

"The art throughout the space made it feel like a cool gallery dinner party."

"This food, especially the chopped salad, has bright, balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-6:30pm with $10 cocktails.

2

The restaurant recently transitioned to a new pizza and tavern menu on 9/23.

3

There is a 3.5% surcharge on all bills.

24
Parlay River North image 1

Sports bar boasts a gorgeous rooftop with a live DJ and multiple TVs for fans. Cocktails shine with real alcohol and attentive bartenders. Food delights with chicken and waffles and stuffed French toast, though some seating feels cramped or dim.

Speciality cocktails stand out with real alcohol and a mix of classic and adventurous options. Bartenders stay attentive to both the food and drink menus, making the drinks consistently superb.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and absolutely delicious."

"The brunch food here is delicious, especially the crispy potatoes."

"The cocktails here are superb and contain actual alcohol."

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.

25
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant shines with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy dรฉcor creating a lively, welcoming vibe. Cocktails impress with creative, well-balanced flavors and a knowledgeable bartender. Attentive service and a beautiful city view complete the upscale soul food experience.

Cocktails here stand out for being creative, well-balanced, and strong without overpowering. The bar offers a great selection of liquors, and the bartender is very knowledgeable and friendly.

People are saying

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

"The servers here are so knowledgeable and attentive for your date night."

"The cocktails here are perfectly made and the bartender is so knowledgeable."

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.

26
Pops for Champagne image 1

Sleek wine bar offers wide champagne selection and craft cocktails focused on bubbly. Upscale atmosphere feels sophisticated but sterile with comfortable seating and ice buckets for people watching. Attentive service pairs drinks well with snacks.

Craft cocktails come out well balanced with a focus on champagne and bubbly. The selection pairs nicely with snacks and wine, supported by attentive service.

People are saying

"I loved the great champagne selection and variety here."

"The cocktails here are beautifully crafted and well balanced."

"I discovered the burger here is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with various food and drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended for window seats, especially during busy hours.

3

The bar offers a unique selection of grower champagne not found elsewhere.

27
Waterview image 1
American restaurant

Enjoy perfect cocktails like espresso martinis with stunning river views in a lively yet relaxed spot. Staff keep a professional vibe while music stays low, making it ideal for casual after-work drinks.

Cocktails come with a great view and are made perfectly. They pair well with the food and suit casual after-work gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and tasty."

"The breakfast servers, Robert and Juan, were so welcoming and attentive."

"I enjoyed delicious cocktails with a view."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:00 to 6:00 pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a calm atmosphere during happy hour.

3

Parking is easy to find and navigate.

28
Crying Tiger image 1
Restaurant

Asian-inspired design creates a stylish bar area with lively 90s hip-hop and R&B music. Creative cocktails like the J.W. Black Label with Mango shine alongside unique dishes. The vibe stays fun and cool in a gorgeous, memorable setting.

Creative drinks like the J.W. Black Label with Mango stand out in the cocktail program. Cocktails serve as the highlight alongside unique dishes and great flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and thoughtfully prepared."

"The Crying Tiger dessert is the star, but it runs out."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking costs $20 for 2 hours.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

29
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club offers live jazz music in a cozy setting with creative cocktails like the blood orange harpoon. Enjoy happy hour deals featuring half-off drinks and $1 oysters. Intimate vibes shine in the private room with a bar amid a lively crowd.

Skilled bar chefs craft creative cocktails that pair well with food. The blood orange harpoon stands out, and happy hour offers half-off cocktails plus $1 oysters and shrimp cocktail.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the amazing jazz music during my visit."

"You have to try the beef Wellington; it's expertly prepared and tender."

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.

30
The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago image 1

Upscale hotel boasts a sophisticated design and a rooftop terrace with stunning views. Cocktails shine at the lobby bar and rooftop, where fire heaters keep guests warm. Central location fuels a vibrant energy throughout the day.

Rooftop offers a great outdoor space for cocktails with fire heaters for colder weather. Lobby bartenders craft excellent cocktails, and the rooftop bar serves high quality drinks alongside small bites.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so kind and helpful."

"The bathroom was spacious and had a separate tub and shower."

"I loved enjoying cocktails at the rooftop bar."

Good to know

1

Expect a Daily Destination Fee upon arrival, which may not be disclosed during booking.

2

Room service is unavailable after 10:30 PM, despite advertised hours until 11 PM.

3

The hotel is attached to the Shops at North Bridge for convenient shopping.

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River North, Chicago

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