Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in River North

Cocktails and nightlife

Made for those who view a high-energy evening out as incomplete without a glass in hand.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Charlie Martin's image 1
Charlie Martin's image 2
Charlie Martin's image 3
View all

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.

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.

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 makes exceptional cocktails here."

"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.

02
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.

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.

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.

03
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.

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.

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."

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

"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.

04
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.

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.

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; 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.

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.

Cocktails here are creatively crafted with inventive flavors and a well balanced mix. The lounge offers a cozy, elegant vibe perfect for enjoying a quiet drink.

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 vibe here is so cozy and accommodating."

"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
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.

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.

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."

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

"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.

07
The Wellsley image 1
Event venue

Art deco design and intimate lighting create a breathtaking space with two beautiful dining rooms and an upstairs lounge featuring red velvet curtains and sofas. The atmosphere combines a high-end polished vibe with loud, nightclub-style music that can make conversation challenging. Weekend DJs add a cinematic energy reminiscent of a Scorsese film.

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

Upstairs features Club 504 with red velvet walls and dim lighting creating a sexy, modern vibe. Music is loud, making conversation challenging, and the club stays open until 2:00am.

People are saying

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

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

"The nightlife here is sexy and modern with dim red velvet walls."

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.

08
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.

Intricate cocktails blend pineapple juice and tequila with care. The bar manager offers personalized recommendations and occasional Port tastings at the table.

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 cocktails here are expertly made by attentive and friendly bartenders."

"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.

09
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.

Award-winning Spiced Watermelon stands out as a showstopper. Nick and Anthony craft amazing cocktails like the Page Turner with skill and flair.

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 cocktails here are great and the service is 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.

10
ACME Hotel Chicago, Outset Collection by Hilton image 1

Boutique hotel with industrial artistic decor and a strong music theme creates a cool, eclectic vibe. Spacious rooms offer city views and modern amenities, while a lively bar and bakery provide social spots. Loud music and a unique entry system add to its distinctive character.

Handcrafted cocktails come in a cool, unique setting with a bartender who makes good cocktails. The lounge offers a fancy vibe perfect for starting an evening.

A cocktail lounge offers exceptional drinks and turns into a club/lounge after hours for nightlife. A swanky lounge downstairs and a cozy bar near the lobby add variety without leaving the building.

People are saying

"This hotel's decor and music give it a fun, cultured vibe."

"It's a great location for walking to nightlife and activities."

"The bartenders here make excellent cocktails."

Good to know

1

You need to ring a bell and show your key to enter the hotel at night.

2

The hotel is centrally located near bars, restaurants, and shopping.

3

Parking is available, but consider using Uber or walking to nearby attractions.

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.

Cocktails come in creative options and are delicious. Drinks sometimes arrive in buckets, adding a unique touch.

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."

"The live music here is incredible and the atmosphere is great."

"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.

12
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.

Bartenders show clear pride in their craft with specialty cocktails and perfectly mixed drinks. The Diablito cocktail stands out with a fire on top as a unique touch.

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 nachos here are so delicious, I loved them."

"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.

13
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.

Great cocktails come with piano music by request. Bartenders serve drinks ideal for after-dinner or late-night enjoyment.

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."

"You can enjoy great cocktails and live piano music here."

"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.

14
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.

Cocktails come pleasantly strong and not too sweet. Prices stay reasonable with options like disco ball cocktails and sparkling rosรฉ offered to make up for mistakes.

Four levels offer distinct vibes, from a local bar feel to a full nightclub. The rooftop serves as a cozy dancing lounge, and the spot combines an amazing restaurant with lively nightlife.

People are saying

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

"The dance floor here is the size of a studio apartment."

"The nightlife here has a cozy vibe with different atmospheres on each floor."

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.

Discover more

River North, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...