50 Best Dive Bars near Elmwood Park

1 Celtic Corner

4.8 Superb 66 Reviews

7300 West Diversey Avenue, Elmwood Park

“great staff and outstanding event to raise funds for fighting Cancer.”

2 The Empty Bottle

4.7 Superb 172 Reviews

1035 N Western Ave, Chicago · 6.46 miles

“Edging Amazing show had a blast tonight”

3 Rainbo Club

4.6 Superb 67 Reviews

1150 N Damen Ave, Chicago · 6.89 miles

“I love rainbo club but had a really icky experience there tonight. Bouncer with a “lex” tattoo was a real prick. Snatched my ID out of my hand and literally jabbed it in my face giving it back to me (fully legal age/ID) and was all around really frustrating to all of my friends in line. Maybe just be a tad bit kinder? Or don’t work late night if you get cranky? 😅”

4 Liar’s Club

4.8 Superb 72 Reviews

1665 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago · 7.13 miles

“Liar’s Club has some of my favorite bands on the regular, so I find myself there a lot. My band has played there too, and it’s a great experience - the room sounds good, with a solid PA system. Gary and the rest of the staff are awesome - the polar opposite of the snooty, hipper-than-thou attitude you get at some rock & roll joints. Drink prices are cheap, and parking is always pretty easy. The clientele is consistently asshole-free. Can’t think of anything bad to say about Liar’s.”

5 Best Intentions

4.4 Superb 166 Reviews

3281 W Armitage Ave, Chicago · 5.1 miles

• Delivery

“if there was ever a better Watering Hole In chicago. This Is It, hands down. Chris and his staff are superior at every aspect of being a classy drinking establishment. I recommend it highly, and Shop local all you lovely Neighbors.”

6 Side Street Saloon

4.7 Superb 86 Reviews

1456 W George St, Chicago · 7.43 miles

• Take-Out
• Delivery

“Cool little place in the middle of a nieghborhood . Great food. My husband and I love to go there.”

7 Archie's Iowa Rockwell Tavern

4.6 Superb 52 Reviews

2600 W Iowa St, Chicago · 6.24 miles

“I came across Archies a few years back while out walking my dog. Stopped out front to tie my shoe, my dog decided she'd walk in without me which is how I found out the bars dog friendly. The staff is great, prices aren't bad. Its your typical small neighborhood bar which i why I love it. Cheese balls too!”

8 J&M Tap

4.7 Superb 35 Reviews

957 N Leavitt St, Chicago · 6.71 miles

“Total local joint. Love stopping in when I’m in town”

9 Web Pub Bucktown

4.9 Superb 36 Reviews

2026 W Webster Ave, Chicago · 6.7 miles

“Was in the area after checking in to my airbnb and the guys still had a couple of hours to land from California. I came in and was immediately met with some fun vibes within the squared circled bar with a divey feel. Lots of people and fun vibes. Reasonable prices. I'd definitely come by if you're a local and have a look, I definitely did as a visitor in my two occasions I came here. Had my shot of delicious malort here too.”

10 Montrose Saloon

4.5 Superb 102 Reviews

2933 W Montrose Ave, Chicago · 6.15 miles

“Excellent venue with outstanding patio”

11 Jefferson Inn

4.9 Superb 31 Reviews

4874 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago · 4.12 miles

“Found this gem by accident while waiting around, and I’m so glad I did. The hospitality was incredible. It’s the ultimate local spot with a welcoming atmosphere. Thanks to the kind bartender and all the guests who made me feel at home. ​P.S. Sorry again to Aneta, the bartender!”

12 Cody's Public House

4.6 Superb 74 Reviews

1658 W Barry Ave, Chicago · 7.21 miles

• Delivery

“Such a great place! Had so much fun. Highly recommend.”

13 Carol's Pub

4.5 Superb 107 Reviews

4659 North Clark Street, Chicago · 7.97 miles

• Delivery

“Music atmosphere people and drinks!”

14 Mr C's Midway Bar Inc

4.4 Superb 52 Reviews

4654 West 63rd Street, Chicago · 10.48 miles

“Me and my coworker went here after a long trip coming to Chicago. Bartender found out we were from out of town and introduced us to all the regulars. Drinks were amazing. The regulars made us feel very welcome. Will definitely have to stop by again the next time I come to Chicago.”

15 The Corner Bar

4.8 Superb 61 Reviews

2224 N Leavitt St, Chicago · 6.49 miles

“Was a couple houses down visiting Chicago from San Diego. While I waited for my other friends to arrive after visiting the Loop, I decided to come around and visit this spot, which was worth the look. Fun bartenders all around the clock, reasonable prices, and even got my friends to do the Chicago rite of passage and take a delicious shot of Malort”

16 Timber Lanes Bowling Alley

4.7 Superb 95 Reviews

1851 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago · 7.21 miles

“Lovely place! Great bar service too.”

17 Max's Place

4.7 Superb 80 Reviews

4621 N Clark St, Chicago · 7.95 miles

“perfect place, friendly, easy on the pocket and the friendliest bartenders and customers. Makes a new customer feel at ease and welcomed.”

18 The Native

4.1 Good 55 Reviews

2417 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago · 5.57 miles

“It's a relatively decent place to have a cold beer or a cocktail. I'd say the best thing about this place is they're awesome patio. Some nights their DJs are great some are just okay. If you can get a booth, hold onto it during busy hours because this place gets packed fast. If you're in Logan, it's worth stopping in for a pint or two.”

19 O's Tap

4.7 Superb 60 Reviews

2044 N Western Ave, Chicago · 6.25 miles

“At the last moment I decided to check out this live music event at Os Tap Tavern and it was the best decision I made all weekend! It was a great spot to watch Michigan State defeat Illinois U and I discovered a great new band Going Down South What a gem Keep up the good work Chicago 🍻”

20 Nilda's Place

4.8 Superb 20 Reviews

1858 West Iowa Street, Chicago · 7.11 miles

“One of Chicago's best kept secrets. I moved to the neighborhood on 2023, and have walked past this place before, thinking it was an old bar from decades past/converted residence. Then I checked it out on maps and appears to still be running. Was walking down the street after West Fest with my neighbor and it was open! Boy, was I blown away when I walked in. I don't know why, but it was giving me Old San Juan vibes. The building is definitely over 100 years old, and it shows in the atmosphere. Old school bar, cash only. Simple, but good, cozy spot. There's a pool table, nice spots for lounging, I hear there's a chihuahua there sometimes...pretty sure it's family ran. The gentleman bartender was cool, and the music was great! Excellent vibes all around.”

21 Fritzy's Tavern

4.6 Superb 33 Reviews

6156 N Clark St, Chicago · 8.74 miles

“Great classic Chicago Tavern with a pool table, live music and a fun blues jam on Tuesday nights!”

22 Ed & Jean's Tavern

4.5 Superb 39 Reviews

2032 W Armitage Ave, Chicago · 6.7 miles

“Ed & Jean’s is truly a hidden gem- step inside and you will be transported to a homey, cozy, artistic and eclectic cocktail lounge that features a huge and unique selection of spirits and outstanding cocktails. Great service, awesome vibes, highly recommended!”

23 Fuller's Pub

4.6 Superb 68 Reviews

3203 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago · 5.66 miles

“Driving home and stumbled upon this welcoming gem on a Sunday.... excellent service w an attentive and friendly bartender. They had great live music from James Gedda that touched the soul. I will definitely stop by again if in the area.Great place to drink and make new friends.”

24 Jimmy's On Clark

4.7 Superb 33 Reviews

6973 North Clark Street, Chicago · 9.22 miles

“Great, friendly, neighborhood bar. Jimmy will make you feel like you've been friends forever. Not usually open on Sundays, but Jimmy will open specially for Bears games, and you might also get to sample his homemade chili, sloppy joes, or maybe even some Little Caesar's pizza! ?”

25 T & A Two

4.9 Superb 16 Reviews

4156 N St Louis Ave, Chicago · 5.41 miles

“Okay, I’ll admit it wasn't terrible. The drinks were reasonably priced for what you get, which was a welcome surprise on a weekday. We expected to pay more. It felt like a typical neighborhood joint, nothing too fancy, but we got our money's worth.”

26 Lemmings On Damen

4.6 Superb 40 Reviews

1850 N Damen Ave, Chicago · 6.77 miles

“matt..the bartender was awesome per usual. fun regulars”

27 Chris' Beer Garden

4.4 Superb 29 Reviews

1610 W North Ave, Chicago · 7.29 miles

“Literally just had the best experience with one of the best bartenders I’ve ever met. ❤️ Extremely helpful, cheerful, fun, kind and attentive. Thank you so much Renee! So much!”

28 Christina's Place

4.3 Superb 57 Reviews

3759 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago · 5.59 miles

“This is the safest place to have a great time any day of the week. I highly recommend attending their Karaoke night on Saturday's. It’s always a blast and you can sing songs in any language (Spanish & English)”

29 Town Tap

4.6 Superb 31 Reviews

7226 W Archer Ave, Summit · 8.93 miles

“The Saturday night bartender is so kind and always has a pleasant attitude. The drinks were good and even though it’s a cash bar it’s worth it to stop by the bank to get cash every single time I know I’m going here. Never had a bad experience at this bar.”

30 Grace & Leavitt

4.5 Superb 59 Reviews

2157 West Grace Street, Chicago · 6.78 miles

• Delivery

“Bartenders William & Kevin were excellent. The taste classic cocktails are the job, but their service was gravy. Glad G&L kept the popcorn machine as it was deliciously salty. It was my first time here for a birthday (sorry for being that loud group a few times, it's the last time I'm being friends with them in public) and I enjoyed the interior design a lot: the tin ceilings, light fixtures, exposed bricks, fake plants along the wooden shelf and on table toppers. There was a small collection of board games but our friends-no-more were happily playing their own game. Excited to be back.”

31 No Name Pub

4.6 Superb 25 Reviews

4511 S Harlem Ave, Forest View · 7.71 miles

“fun time local hangout for everyone. Definitely fun and free pool after 10!”

32 Zakopane

4.4 Superb 22 Reviews

1734 W Division St, Chicago · 7.2 miles

“I hope this Polish dive bar stays around for many more years. Cash Only. Pool Table available - $1 a game (coins) the jukebox is holding on by a thread but it's only a $1 for 3 songs which is great. The day I was there we had the entire bar to ourselves the whole night.”

33 Edelweiss Tavern

4.3 Superb 37 Reviews

3808 W Belmont Ave, Chicago · 4.62 miles

“Edelweiss is a pure gem and is THE best bar in Chicago. Laid back, friendly and a timeless classic former shift bar that now hosts a good mix of lively people. I’ve met one of my best friends in the city at this bar, spent birthdays, happy and sad moments here and the staff is just phenomenal. Olga is my favorite bartender in Chicago who has an incredible heart and makes you feel at home. Alex, who handles the karaoke machine is the best to sing your heart out with. I always bring out of town visitors, friends and loved ones here all the time, and is my space in the city. Businesses like this are the real soul of this city and in hard times and good times alike, they keep the city going…Have a Lvivske blonde and a Zubrowka in the front where you can mingle and sing, play billiards in the back, and have your intimate conversations in the really nice patio ;)”

34 Black Hole Bar

4.5 Superb 36 Reviews

1942 West Division Street, Chicago · 6.93 miles

“excellent ambiance super attendence 🍻🍻”

35 Bristol/bar

5.0 Superb 5 Reviews

3084 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago · 4.67 miles

• Delivery

“Great, friendly local spot. It's clean with throwback decor. My fave is the Seagram's lamp. Cheap prices for drinks. They also serve pizza & Polish food. Nice place to watch the game or play pool on your choice of 2 pool tables. Come and get out of the cold.”

36 Errico's Club 30

4.6 Superb 19 Reviews

5713 West Roosevelt Road, Cicero · 4.42 miles

“Love this hidden gem in Cicero. Typical sports bar with great drink specials, live music on Friday nights, and DJ on Saturday nights. Great for watching all sporting events! Also has a gaming room with all of the best machines. As the sign on the building says its “the best kept secret in Cicero”!!”

37 Corner Joynt

4.9 Superb 8 Reviews

7600 W 60th Pl # 1, Summit · 9.62 miles

“Very nice people!”

38 Bob Inn

4.1 Good 27 Reviews

2609 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago · 5.98 miles

“We love it and we highly recommend it and the family there is the best. Enjoy ever min there😀😍🤩🥰”

39 Club Belmont

4.5 Superb 31 Reviews

7844 W Belmont Ave, Chicago · 1.36 miles

“This dive bar is a breath of fresh air in a world of overpriced, trendy spots. Here, the beer is cold, the conversation flows easily, and the atmosphere is pure, unadulterated dive bar. No fancy cocktails to be found, just a solid selection of beers, including the newly added Yuengling on tap, and a welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay all night. They also offer a few liquors for basic mixed drinks or for those who like to drink their liquor neat.”

40 Ms Ann's Pad

4.6 Superb 16 Reviews

4701 W Harrison St, Chicago · 4.77 miles

“Only reason for 4 stars and not 5 is vaccination card was required for service and I don't exactly carry it around in my back pocket. She did make me a long island iced tea to go and it's delicious with the perfect amount of liquor!!!”

41 Loop Tavern & Liquors

4.3 Superb 22 Reviews

1610 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago · 7.47 miles

• Take-Out
• Delivery

“this bar has been in the same Greek family for two generations. it is a local spot with dedicated regulars and friendly service. a clean, well maintained, safe place with dive bar prices. late night spot with touch tunes. have a shot and carry out liquor in the same establishment. dog friendly. there is always a $2 shot special. what's not to love?”

42 The Landing Strip Bar and Grill

4.4 Superb 80 Reviews

9820 Lawrence Ave, Schiller Park · 4.49 miles

• Delivery

“My band just played there. Great place for music food and drinks. Super friendly staff. 💯 recommended, add it to your list of watering holes 🍻”

43 Goldyburgers

4.4 Superb 73 Reviews

7316 Circle Avenue Suite 1165, Forest Park · 2.46 miles

• Take-Out

“Get the burger. Never had a bad one.”

44 Cordial Inn Bar and Video Slot Machines

4.4 Superb 59 Reviews

9207 31st St Meeting Room, Brookfield · 6.38 miles

“A enjoyable Saturday lunch, friendly staff, local bar atmosphere.”

45 Claddagh Ring Pub

4.4 Superb 47 Reviews

2306 W Foster Ave, Chicago · 7.33 miles

• Delivery

“Awesome people and cool bartenders”

46 Keenan O'Reilly's Pub

4.5 Superb 14 Reviews

3916 N Ashland Ave, Chicago · 7.52 miles

“Keenan O'Reilly's is described as "a classic example of a Chicago dive bar." So what is a dive bar? According to one definition, it typically is a small, unglamorous, eclectic, old-style bar with inexpensive drinks and may feature dim lighting, shabby or dated decor, neon beer signs, packaged beer sales, cash only service and a local clientele. By that definition, I suppose Keenan O'Reilly's fits the description. Located at 3916 North Ashland Avenue, south of Irving Park Road, at Byron, in the Lakeview neighborhood, this pub opened in 2007 in a space formerly occupied by a Polish bar and is noted for its bright white and green Special Export sign above the door. It features a good-sized room with hardwood floors, a white drop ceiling and a worn wooden bar that arcs well out into the room. It also is noted for cheap beers, relaxed atmosphere and lack of crowds. Come for drinks and friendly conversation, not food. There is no kitchen. Open from 5:30 to 1 a.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 1 to 1 a.m. on Sunday, O'Reilly's has a large beer list and manages to keep patrons entertained with pool, darts, ping-pong, electronic shuffleboard and other board games. There's also a couple of flatscreen TVs and a jukebox. There are beers on draft. Also craft brews, imports, ciders and domestics. And Trivia Night is a popular attraction every Monday. What's a dive bar? Now you know.”

47 Pioneer Lounge

5.0 Superb 3 Reviews

5414 West Fullerton Avenue, Chicago · 2.45 miles

“buena actitud no y bien cervicio”

48 Regina & Joe Tap

5.0 Superb 3 Reviews

2988 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago · 4.78 miles

49 Smilin' Jim's Saloon

4.2 Good 23 Reviews

6306 N Western Ave, Chicago · 8.03 miles

“I miss this place. It was my regular spot in 2007 & 2008 before I moved back to California. Very diverse crowd of regulars from different walks of life, but everyone knew each other. Jim is awesome. If I could still give him my money for alcohol, I would.”

50 Blueberry Hill

4.4 Superb 12 Reviews

429 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park · 2.96 miles

“Love this place the people that work are so nice and happy. It’s stocked really well to I enjoy going there for shopping it’s not the traditional grocery store but it’s has a nice selection of food. The snacks and frozen food from around the world make it easier to be adventurous with my meals. Vegetarian options: The vegetarian options are end less . Dietary restrictions: It’s a smaller grocery store you pick up what you need . Parking: Big open lot no problem with the parking”