50 Best Cocktail Bars in Chicago

“Foodie and gals it’s are addictive. Warning!! 💕💕💕💕“

“So much fun. Creative cocktails that look amazing and taste even better.“

“Great food and interesting menu to say the least. 10/10 would eat and drink again!“

“Very cool place, exclusive-feeling, but not at all pretentious. Really interesting, complex and well-balanced cocktails. Our bartender also created many of the drinks on the menu, so we could ask all about the recipes and flavor profiles. Candles galore set the mood. A great find!“

“This place is the coolest bar I have been to in a long time, hip and fun but not pretentious. They paid attention to every detail when building and designing. The white marbel bar has clean lines and looks fresh. All of the hardware finishes look sharp and clean. The patio is large and inviting with a fire place and plenty of tables to sit at. The drink menu is creative and refreshing and the staff is kind and welcoming. I cannot say enough good things about this gem of a bar. I am excited to hang out this fall on the patio by the fireplace with good drink in My hand.“

“Adoro l'arredamento vintage. I tarocchi sono divertenti.“

“We had a lovely dinner at Rose Mary last night and it was the most fabulous meal that we have had in some time. Amazing service, beautiful venue and the food was just so good. Simple but very complex; rustic but refined. And the service was impeccable. What a glorious end to our experience in Chicago!! Very highly recommend it. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟“

“Great soacil place good food“

“Love this place. The atmosphere is incredible. It’s preferable to come between 8-11 when the dim lights set. Brett, one of the bartenders, got me out of a depressive episode when I was thinking about an ex. I cannot recommend this place enough. I’d give it 6 starts but black rock restricted me to 5.“

“Absolutely delicious!! Can't wait to come back“

“It’s the best. Great Bartenders and excellent cocktails“

“Great vibe, great staff, well made and designed cocktails 🍸“

“Cosmic and Carnal Cocktails, Phenomenal Food and Stupendous Staff Members! 10’s Across The Board! Oh, the sound system and curated DJ Sets will have even the deceased DANCING 🕺“

“I went to Indienne with friends to celebrate 50th birthdays. The experience did not disappoint. Indienne delivered an exceptional dining experience with its tasting menu. The food was truly phenomenal—beautifully presented, thoughtful, and layered with bold yet refined flavors that felt both creative and rooted in tradition. Each course was memorable with different takes on recognizable dishes. While the drinks were just okay and didn’t quite rise to the same level as the food, they also didn’t detract from the overall experience. The tasting menu alone makes Indienne well worth the visit, especially for anyone who appreciates inventive, high-quality cuisine.“

“I am late writing my review but I had to write it !! I visited provare chicago On july 8th !! From start to finish this restaurant gets 5 starts . The decor was nice and set a perfect atmosphere for a great night . We were greeted immediately upon arrival and seated within 5 minutes of being there . Once seated the wait staff began their introduction's on drinks and popular menu item's. After my party ordered drinks and appetizers a gentleman came over (not sure if he was the manager) and introduce himself and made sure we were having a great experience. Appetizers were amazing!! We couldn't wait for dinner!! Our entrées we just as good if not better ! Everything was cooked and seasoned to perfection! When we didn't think the night could get even better the entire wait staff and the gentleman that came over before stopped and recognized my friend for her birthday and brought over a birthday surprise!! I live 307 miles and this place was definitely worth the drive !!!“

“After entering the unassuming side door to Meadowlark we were greeted by a very friendly hostess. We were actually there to buy a gift card but decided to stay and check it out. The waiting area is separated from the main room and is quite small. We waited about 30 minutes to be seated. We loved the atmosphere right away. It was dimly lit with lots of dark wood and exposed brick walls. We were sat at a little settee with a small coffee table in front of it. We were greeting within a couple minutes and given drink menus. All of the cocktails are craft and very interesting. Our server explained that the menu rotates on a weekly basis. It was a space themed menu when we were there. Our drinks were delicious and very pretty in the individually curated glasses. We were pleasantly surprised at how quickly our drinks arrived. We chose a mixed olive dish and deviled eggs for small bites. We loved both. Especially the deviled eggs! We loved Meadowlark! The space is well thought out and cozy. The drinks were delicious and innovative and the service was outstanding. Come early because the wait can get long. You won’t be disappointed.“

“You would never know. Just walk on by. But it’s your loss if you do. The food is amazing. Flat out good. So much better than any of those downtown corporate places. Cooked with heart and profoundly good flavor, texture and palate. Next door to perhaps the best pasta in the Midwest, this restaurant and bar should be on your list.“

“Truce is undoubtedly one of the best chill bars in Chicago. If you’re looking for unique drinks that wow you, Truce is the place you want to go to. One of the owners, Rami, made my wife and I feel right at home. The food and snacks are insanely great. the overall vibe is unbeatable. This place sets the bar for hospitality and quality. Can’t wait to come back!“

“I love the diversity of the people who come here. Just an amazing atmosphere of unique individuals that bring so much to the place whenever I'm here. And some of the best bartenders in the city!“

“Love this place. The drinks are amazing, the food hits the spot, and the bartenders are what make this place a gem in Chinatown.“

“Been here several times, always a blast and great drinks. Last visit was weird. Kinda stuffy. Bartender was uninterested and ok with letting customers wait along time before taking order. I hope things are not changing.“

“We were in town for NYE and settled in the Whiskey Girl Tavern to bring in the New Year as there was a Moulin Rouge show included! When we went to buy the tickets, the highest package ticket was the only one available for $30 but it was never explicit what that entailed. When we got there, we were able to get a table. Live singer and guitarist were great. Loved loved loved to see the LGBT community in a safe, authentic, expressive environment. Glad we were able to enjoy our drinks and a bite to eat before the show. We ordered the white pizza, I don’t think that is what we got. It seemed like any other cheese pizza. It was okay but wouldn’t order again. We were very much looking forward to the burlesque show but to be honest it was just alright. DJ was pretty good, just wished the show was actually a show. We could barely see or hear anything from a table with what should have been clear sight. Overall, the NYE experience was just okay but we want to come back and give it a second chance to catch a game next time we’re in town.“

“Very nice and friendly bartenders. They are very good at making any kind of drinks.“

“Impeccable service. Friendly staff. Delicious gin“

“We happened upon this restaurant during a visit from New England. It was the best meal we had in Chicago. The restaurant is fabulous! We had delicious soup with incredible warm rolls, salad and 4 different amazing entrees. The restaurant has great windows to enjoy natural light and is quiet enough to have a conversation. All this with white tablecloths and a reasonable price.“

“An incredible experience at Alma (Hotel Zachary)!

We went for their Sunday Afternoon Tea (available on select non-game day Sundays) and it was absolutely amazing! The space is chic and stylish, and you can’t beat the iconic views of Wrigley Field—such a unique and beautiful setting for tea.

We were welcomed with a glass of sparkling rosé, followed by a delicious pot of tea—I chose the Mallorca Melon, which was light, fruity, and perfect for summer. The tea selection changes seasonally, which makes me excited to come back and try something new!

The food was just as impressive: a beautifully presented spread of fresh pastries, sandwiches, and desserts, all of which were super flavorful and clearly made with care.

Huge shoutout to our server, Amir—he was outstanding! Friendly, attentive, and made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

We’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend Alma for anyone looking for a special afternoon out in Wrigleyville!“

“I love this place so much. Everything about it is just perfect.“

“my best friend and I just had the BEST experience at the whale! Our waitress taylor was incredible and the manager (so sorry but we never got his name because he was just being so nice to us) was incredible as well. We will definitely return with friends and recommend anyone to try it out! classy, but not snobby, cool decor, warm kind and accommodating staff, and great food and cocktails are just the cherry on top! try the carrot cake after your meal :) Thank you again to taylor and the manager again <3“

“Small, cozy space with beautiful drinks. Very nice staff.“

“Oliver's has my favorite burger in town and it's not even close. So good I'm debating going and just ordering two for myself nest time. All the other dishes are excellent too. Personally I thought the risotto was lacking in flavor but went well with the side of mushrooms we ordered separately. Cookies and milk was nostalgic and delicious. Golden hour cocktails tasty as well. Staff was an absolute pleasure; kind and attentive.“

“Great variety and unique flavors. Great vibe.“

“Place has a speakeasy disco vibe. On a Sat the DJ was spinning real vinyl with jazz, 80s, and similar to create a chill vibe. The disco balls helped as well. Though I always appreciate unique cocktails and this place falls nothing short of a tasty twist. Order from Olven. He was very helpful and kind.“

“I chose this place at random to celebrate my 13 year anniversary. The bartender made sure that I come back to celebrate and just to hang out as a regular. We were taken care of, without being hovered over, and his kindness made the night that much more memorable. I wish I caught his name, but dude with the hat behind the bar on 11/15, thank you! 🤟🏽“

“Great happy hour daily 5-6pm The burgers are so good !! Always fun“

“The Sparrow on Elm Street is one of those rare Chicago gems that feels effortlessly timeless. The moment you step inside, you’re transported — the atmosphere blends vintage elegance with a cozy, intimate charm that’s hard to find anywhere else in the city. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and actually enjoy the moment.

The service is consistently attentive without ever feeling intrusive. The staff knows their craft, from the way they describe the cocktails to the way they read the room. Whether you’re there for a quiet solo drink, a date night, or a catch‑up with friends, they create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and beautifully curated.

The cocktails are the true highlight — balanced, thoughtful, and crafted with intention. Every drink feels like it was made specifically for you. The menu has personality without being pretentious, and the flavors are layered in a way that shows real skill behind the bar.

What I love most about The Sparrow is the energy. It’s sophisticated without trying too hard, intimate without feeling small, and stylish without losing its sense of comfort. It’s the kind of spot you remember long after you leave — a place that becomes part of your personal Chicago map.

If you’re looking for a bar that delivers atmosphere, craftsmanship, and a touch of old‑world charm, The Sparrow is absolutely worth the visit.“

“The interior is amazingly chic, creative and comfy! Nice deep chairs with other parts of the restaurant decorated with different seating scenarios. I had the beef carpaccio which was really good and a smoky olive martini which was perfection!“

“Delicious cocktails:) I will definitely go back!“

“10/10 experience with Eddie! Had a birthday event for some friends and he was super helpful and accommodating! Definitely would recommend this place! Can’t wait to come back!“

“Like a flash back to the 70’s, before I could hold a cocktail but fancied doing so.....“

“My boyfriend and I stumbled upon this bar after going on a food tour of the area. I insisted we go in because of the fun lights, and am so glad we did!!! We had an incredible time, mainly because of our bartenders—Tabby and Jayden. They both made stellar cocktails, were super personable and completely made our experience. Tabby is a riot and Jayden was lovely. We had way more drinks than we normally would because we were having so much fun! Will 100% come back next time we’re in Chicago.“

“Amazing experience! The food was great…best steak that I’ve ever had!“

“Went here for a social event and Mitch and Joe took good care of our group!

The low lighting created a nice intimate atmosphere, great space for groups of 2-4 I’d say. Music was just slightly louder than I’d like for a conversation for a bigger group, but loved their playlist here.

The Horchata2Ways was my favorite drink, absolutely loved that one“

“Sexy as hell, amazing staff, music acts are A+, delicious drinks and an overall great time!!!“

“Food are great And good drinks too“

“I love this place! We were there on 5/29/22 and Wes was wonderful as well as the drinks!“

“This is my MOST FAVORITE bbq place in the whole USA. Been to many places but they food is absolutely delicious. Their staff is very very nice too, when I told them I was from Seattle, they treated me even more special. It’s Restaurant is a 10/10 💕🥰“

“Enjoyed the Christmas pop-up, very festive and the food is fantastic!“

“Favorite bar in Avondale!!“

“Just that you will have an awesome time!“

“The staff was great. As a fellow mixologist, I appreciated the work that went into the bitters and mixers. The spirit list was great and expansive. We had a nice time there. The only thing I would suggest would be to not have the QR Code funnel through Canva to get to the menu or website as Canva is loaded on my phone and it had to bypass my account to get to your listing.“