50 Best Cocktail Bars in Chicago

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

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

“Oliver's is a MUST visit. I cannot emphasize what a lovely time my friends and I had. I cannot sing enough praises to the immense care and charismatic service provided. The space itself is beautiful and while it seats more than you'd think, there's a level of coziness and intimacy. The food is well prepared and delicious. With elevated dishes, I thought the menu offers flair and thoughtfulness. Amongst our group we had carrots, truffle gnocchi, burgers, chicken, milk and cookies, espresso martinis, and the milk punch. Not a single miss, we were all happy members of the clean plate club. I had a phenomenal experience at Oliver's and cannot wait for my next visit, I will certainly be back in the near future.“

“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“

“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. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟“

“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 !!!“

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

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

“Flight Club Chicago proves that a specialty game bar can be both polished and genuinely entertaining without losing its soul to novelty. On a first visit—prompted by a recommendation rooted in the brand’s London flagship—the experience was not only memorable but convincingly repeat-worthy. Accessibility matters, especially for suburban visitors, and Flight Club immediately scores points here: parking is refreshingly easy, located right next door, eliminating the usual downtown friction. Reservations were honored promptly, and our group was smoothly guided to a dedicated darts area that felt private without being isolated. The true star, of course, is the darts. Flight Club elevates the classic pub game into a modern, social experience with a range of digital formats that scale beautifully for both casual players and competitive types. For our group of six, the games struck the ideal balance—engaging, intuitive, and laugh-out-loud fun—making it easy for everyone to participate regardless of skill level. Too often, game-focused venues treat food and service as afterthoughts. Not here. The menu is thoughtfully executed, the food genuinely good, and the service attentive without hovering—exactly what you want when the evening is built around shared experience rather than formal dining. The ambiance ties everything together. Stylish but warm, energetic yet controlled, the space feels purpose-built for connection. Add in excellent sightlines to the Riverwalk, and Flight Club manages to feel distinctly Chicago while retaining the sophistication of its international pedigree. The verdict: Flight Club Chicago is more than a novelty—it’s a well-run, highly enjoyable destination that succeeds on multiple levels. For groups looking for an interactive night out in the city, with strong food, seamless service, and a setting that encourages fun without chaos, this is an easy recommendation.“

“Fabulous experience! One guest has food allergies - dairy wheat nuts - but their food options and dishes were excellent. We had the shrimp ceviche. Amazing! I could have drank the liquid! Chip salsa and guac perfect. We tried 3 different tacos - beef, shrimp and al pastor with the Al Pastor was very good! We also had the adobo glazed shrimp which was more fancy with the sauce being rich. Lastly we had the cochinita pibil (pork) very good. Homemade tortillas tasty! For drinks, loved the pepino shot and Non- Alcohol mango mango. We love good NA drinks. Thanks for a fun meal with wonderful flavors and great service.“

“The very first course, the Dahi Puri, is one of the best dishes I've eaten in my life. A symphony of flavors, presenting themselves one by one and then in combination. Absolute bliss. The vegan tasting menu is culinary heaven on earth. And what makes this restaurant possibly the best I've been to in the world is not only their culinary achievements, but that they excel to the highest levels at absolutely every other part of the dining experience.. the waitstaff, the music, the table spacing, the décor, the tableware, the flatware, the wine menu, the wine glasses, the timing of the courses.. all perfection. Every single staff member from hostess, servers, bartenders, Sommelier, food runners.. every person is an absolute delight. Their attentiveness, kindness and attention to detail is extraordinary. It's clear that they are at the very top of their field and genuinely enjoy working here. Whoever does the hiring here deserves a Michelin star. I've been to great restaurants where the dining experience is ruined because you're seated so close to the other tables you may as well join in on their conversation. Not here. Same with music - the volume level and music selection must pair well with the meal and it's astonishing how many restaurants miss this. Indienne gets it right. When the restaurant Alinea in Chicago was Michelin-rated the best in North America and 6th best in the world, with many others calling it the best in the world, I was lucky enough to have dined there three times. The vegan menu at Indienne is well on it's way to that level with dishes like the Dahi Puri and Avocado Kebab having already arrived. I walked in off the street on a Thursday and although they were packed, they were able to offer me a table. So if you don't have a reservation, still go! You can also eat at the bar, although you can't do the full vegan tasting menu at the bar. You're limited to 3 vegan dishes with bar seating but honestly you'll still be full and in heaven.“

“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 🕺“

“My wife and I had our rehearsal dinner here and had a great time! The planning process was stress free and Anne did a great job answering any questions we had. The service was great and all of our guests enjoyed the food and drinks! The upstairs space is great for small gatherings. We highly recommend Lena Brava for anyone that is looking for a venue to host their rehearsal dinner!“

“The food was very good. But this is definitely a place where you are paying for excellent and it was not quite that. Appetizers and desert were great, wine list as well. But the salmon I had for my main was underwhelming—the marinade was far too heavy on the fish sauce.“

“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.“

“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!“

“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.“

“Great variety and unique flavors. Great vibe.“

“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!“

“Great food and exceptional service“

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

“This might be one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. Not only because the food is delicious but the staff are the sweetest people in the world.

A special shoutout to Issac and the GM (I forget her name) for not only providing good service but providing it with a real heart and soul.“

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

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

“The food was great. The wait staff was courteous and professional.“

“I love this place - had the brisket sliders, which were some of the best I've had, and an actually excellent non-alcoholic cocktail. Service was great - atmosphere was perfect for after work drinks. Really hopping for a Tuesday - I can see why.“

“Excellent service and attention from the workers there. They knew the menu well and gave great recommendations. Food was delicious and it was Iike eating at my mommas house. The drinks were amazing and love the decor. It was like being in Puerto Rico. Will visit again“

“I’ve been going to Truce since they’ve opened. Every time I come in, it’s always warm, welcoming, and personal. The staff knows me and it really seems like a neighborhood spot. Additionally the coffee and cocktails are fire. Truce for life!“

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

“Had a phenomenal experience here. Kind and quick service, beautiful interior, all that—but goodness gracious the food?!?? The Ropa Vieja was phenomenal, lovingly stewed and seasoned beef and fresh rice and veggies gosh DARN and to say nothing of the homemade hot sauce? Delightfully smoky vinegary kick that brought it all together. Great guac, great drinks, great dinner. The highest of recommendations! Thanks for a great meal Zully and kitchen :)“

“Awesome place! Their happy hour menu is fantastic but the normal menu is also very reasonable. Love seeing highballs getting the spotlight. Staff was friendly and attentive.
I don't usually eat when I'm out drinking but the burger was so well reviewed I had to try it and was not disappointed.“

“Impeccable service. Friendly staff. Delicious gin“

“Esme is truly an experience to have. We did the menu and the wine pairing and it was amazing. From the presentation to the food was unbelievable and will definitely do it again as it changes quarterly“

“On the evening of July 5 my wife and I tried Avaspi on Belmont Avenue in Lakeview for the first time. It will not be the last! I love lamb and am quite particular as to how is it prepared. The “lamb delight” menu item was the best lamb I have ever had in a restaurant: tender, succulent, and prepared to perfection. The side salad accompanying it was not your ordinary side salad! My wife and I both enjoyed the Mixed Meze appetizer plate. Each of the five items was quite good but the muhammara was to die for. We ended our meal with tea, baklava and kubralice. The décor and ambience were refreshing and relaxing, and the service was outstanding. The pricing was very reasonable. Please give it a try. We do not think you will be disappointed.“

“The concept for the menu is a unique trip along the Pan-American highway with stops at various Latin countries. Each dish and drink is thoughtful in its ingredients and presentation. The jicama salad was refreshing, but not at all plain. The pastel de choclo was a wonderful surprise of a warm dish. The frozen el arenal was seriously dangerous in how delicious it was, I can’t recommend it enough. The atmosphere was beautiful and the music was perfect. We are so thrilled to have this gem in the neighborhood and can’t wait to see what they do in the future!“

“The food and staff were amazing! Such a friendly staff who were extremely welcoming and attentive. I have never ordered ‘seconds’ at a restaurant until today! The tostadas were out of this world and the shrimp taco was delicious. A must try!“

“Absolutely a 10/10 meal AND experience! The chefs omakase coursed meal was incredible. The chef walked us through each dish that somehow was even more delectable than the last. Cocktails were wonderful and the matcha sandwich for dessert is a must!“

“Great food 🥘 great service amazing coffee, hot or iced“

“The menu here rotates and has a different theme - could have read it like a book! Very moody, great date spot. While a little pricey, cocktails are worth it. Be prepared for a wait on the weekends - they prioritize those that wait in-person vs. leaving a phone number.“

“Hands down one of the best restaurants in Chicago. It’s rare to find a restaurant where every dish is so flavorful and on point but Elia does it so gracefully! Amazing atmosphere and great service - Ebrar made our dinner experience so enjoyable. Can’t wait to go back!“

“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 💕🥰“

“Food was surprisingly good. Hummus is dusted with tajin or something like that, so it has a little kick and lots of toasted chickpeas which is yummy. The buffalo chicken sliders are seriously outstanding. Service was friendly but a little bit absent at times. Atmosphere is lively. We were there for music bingo on Wednesday night and will definitely be back. It gets loud and hard to hear when it's full.“

“Astonishing as always. Thanks Billy Lawless for making my proposal to my wife celebrated at your restaurant 10 years ago, very special.“

“Very good food. I highly recommend this place.“

“Best galbitang in the entire Chicagoland, including suburbs, don't @ me.

Don't be fooled by the fact they're open late and have karaoke. Their Korean food is serious. Even their jajangmyun was great, which is rare for a non-korean Chinese cuisine restaurant.

If I had to nitpick, price is on higher end and food takes a bit long sometimes, but all is forgiven when quality meets price and the wait.“

“Nice place, wonderful burger and good bar selection. Totally disagree with the credit card surcharge, though - no restaurant with $20 burgers should charge guests the comission!“

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

“I am so glad I gave this place another chance. Genesis really took good care of us. She was so professional and made our experience great. I had the sweet tea chicken and my friend had the fish and chips. Everything was good. It was my friend birthday and they went out there way to make sure he felt celebrated on his day! We will definitely be back!!!“

“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.“