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!“

“Great experience from the moment you walk on the door. The staff is very welcoming. The bar is a great place to start or even enjoy a meal. The main dinning area is expansive which can add a bit of noise but didn't hold back our conversation.
The food menu is delightful and offers enough choice. The starters are shareable and the bread is fantastic. Personal I had the American Wagyu and mushrooms - classic and outstanding.
Great beverage and the wine list.
Definitely a South Loop gem!“

“I brought my mom here for her 85th birthday. The staff were so kind, friendly and knowledgeable. The drinks were delicious, the atmosphere was great, and the bartender was awesome. They all were also very helpful and accommodating with my mom, as she is in a wheelchair. She was so happy when we left and said it was great way to celebrate her birthday.“

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

“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.“

“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.“

“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 really appreciate the owner reaching out after my initial experience. Although it was disappointing at the time, they went out of their way to make arrangements for us, including offering a table and drinks to ensure we had a better experience. It means a lot when a business takes accountability and genuinely works to make things right. I’m looking forward to coming back and giving it another try.“

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

“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“

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

“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! 🤟🏽“

“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 had a fun evening at the Meadowlark. A cute spot for a date with tasty cocktails.

Perhaps much more importantly, I had feedback for the Meadowlark that was received and taken very seriously by the management team. They reached out directly to me as a follow-up. I appreciated their communication and willingness to hear my concerns. That really sets them apart as a business who cares and want to be integrated within the community.“

“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.“

“Ever-changing menu of unique cocktails that are always complex, inventive, and well-balanced. That carries over into their non-alcoholic options as well, which includes coffee and tea lattes and alcohol-free cocktails. Super chill and comfy space to work during the day or have an intimate drink with friends at night.“

“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 !!!“

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

“Have you ever gone into a restaurant with a group of people and just asked the server to take care of you? We did, and Noah did not disappoint! The hospitality was warm and welcoming, the drinks were perfect, we definitely recommend the spicy marg or the PS I kinda like you. For food we can’t recommend the burger enough we also loved the duck fried rice and definitely get the tiger fries!! 10/10 we’ll be 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“

“My visit to Cara Cara Club was great! Between two of us we had 6 different cocktails, they were all delicious, my favorite was the Baccanalia. Didn’t have much of an appetite so I can’t say anything about the food other than it looked and smelt amazing. The vibes were great with the music and the disco balls. I’m looking forward to returning.“

“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.“

“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!“

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

“This place is absolutely stunning! 3 separate rooms with different themes to accommodate the celebration. We had Genesis as our waitress and she gave us a phenomenal experience. First by giving great recommendations, secondly by describing and instructing us how to go about drinking our cocktails. She was so sweet and informative I could rave about her for days. Honestly I would come back for her and drinks not so much for the food. So happy with the overall experience!“

“Lovely place for a cocktail, conversation and live music. Lots of seating options so you can get as close or far to the music as you’d like. Bartenders do a great job creating original craft cocktails with seasonal options. Service was exceptional“

“I reserved their private room for my wife’s birthday party and the entire party raved about it! The food and drinks were excellent and the staff is very kind, accommodating, and provided excellent service. If you’re looking for a place for a great party, highly recommend them!“

“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.“

“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!“

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

“I was lowkey nervous about writing this review because I know this place is already popular… and part of me wants to keep it a secret.

But Valedor is easily a 10/10.

From the moment you walk in, everything just clicks — the atmosphere, the door host, the staff, and the overall level of service. It’s one of those places where you can tell the team takes pride in the experience they create.

What I really like is how versatile the space feels. It works for a birthday celebration, dinner date, or even an after-work happy hour. No matter the occasion, it fits.

If you’re thinking about checking it out, make the trip. You won’t regret it.“

“Had a great birthday dinner here. The staff went above and beyond to make it special including helping pull off a surprise floral arrangement. The food was incredible and we are still talking about the pork, steak and salsa matcha. We will absolutely be back. Thank you Samantha and team.“

“Went for the Womens Month/International womens day pop up. We knew going into it, that the food would be gluten-free vegan. Not our usual fair but we'll roll with it. There wasn't a menu to at least see what was coming and I wish there was. The first plate of kinda sandwiches was pretty good. The middle tier wasn't great. I tried them all but I'm just not a fan of nut cheese. Neither of us could eat them. They just weren't good. The desserts however were great! The ambiance and decor of the place is top level beauty. There was live acoustic music behind us that worked with it.“

“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.“

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

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

“Great variety and unique flavors. Great vibe.“

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

“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“

“Food are great And good drinks too“

“Just that you will have an awesome time!“