50 Best Cocktail Bars near Forest Park

“Went in bold without ever trying this place to celebrate my 30th birthday and this place was absolutely stunning and delicious. The staff including the chef were truly attentive(compliments to the chef), thank you for an amazing experience . They asked if anyone had allergies to start off too. Their food and drinks was delicious. I had their chicken Alfredo, my husband the gnocchi with braised beef & various of my family their seafood linguine and the flavors were bold and exquisite. Flavored shots were amazing and so was their dessert (my favorite was the banana pudding). I have a few family members who are picky eaters and even they really enjoyed it. I have worked in the restaurant business downtown and this place is better than some places ive had in downtown Chicago. Great for dinner & special occasions. 10/10 for everything this is one of our new favorite places in the area.“

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

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

“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.“

“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!“

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

“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!“

“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“

“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.“

“The food is 10/10 I would not come here for drinks I would say it's not very congruent w the menu and then the flavors don't really match w the menu. The whipped paneer was so good as were the hush puppies. I also got the mushroom curry which was top notch.“

“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.“

“Always amazing cocktails! We are big fans.“

“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.“

“Truly the best bar I've ever been to. It's not cheap, but what you pay for is a meticulously crafted cocktail menu that has yet to disappoint me with a single drink. Better amari selection than I'd expect just about anywhere to have, and the music is fantastic. Dj nights typically lean global disco or house, but weeknights and Sundays you truly never know. But if you have an open mind, you'll still probably enjoy the vibe.“

“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!“

“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.“

“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“

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

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

“Had a great time trying Valedor's cantina hour (their daily happy hour). We really like their cocktails, they were unique and had a super creative presentation. Our favorites were the Bandolero, Carajillo, Sakerita, and Tamarind Sour. We also tried some of their tapas, which are $8 each during Cantina Hour. Highly recommend the Karaage, Tuna Tacos, and Gyoza. Overall, great experience and I'll be back.“

“Favorite bar in Avondale!!“

“The wife and I went back to the old neighborhood to visit somebody at the hospital driving around we found modern plate. We figure we’d give it a try. There is no doubt in my mind that this place eventually will be a five star restaurant. The food was phenomenal service atmosphere But I will tell you this much. Don’t go there with your good. Looks thinking you’re gonna buy something bring your cash, but it’s well worth it. The wife and I cannot wait to go back to try something else.“

“Great staff and every thing we ordered was absolutely fantastic.“

“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!“

“Ten out of Ten !!!!!!!!!!“

“Just that you will have an awesome time!“

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

“Great food and exceptional service“

“Great variety and unique flavors. Great vibe.“

“my first time here with my nephew and I love it ..the bartender is freaking awesome much love to Ms. Kim .. my awesome friendly makes you feel very welcomed I got to beat my nephew in darts .lol wish there was a pool table though .. but I will definitely be back. the serves is awesome s must visit“

“This bar is awsome! But when Danny works I am made to feel so uncomfortable.

Every other member of the staff has made me feel like a valued member of our community and I think that’s what this establishment stands for. However , when Danny works, I feel objectified, disrespected, and over all disappointed with my stay.
I do not think this person speaks for the volumes of wonderful experience at Nighthawk. Others should definitely continue to support Nighthawk if you’re about supporting queer friendly / local communities and small businesses. I firmly, as a patron for a decade, do not feel this employee represents what this establishment stands for.

I am confident in the authority of establishment to remedy the situation to optimize experiences for all.“

“We rolled in as some sleeveless thirsty travelers late night on a Thursday. We were bathed in nonchalant hospitality. The quality of a bar can stand on the legs of a Strong menu but it’s only excellent when you have exceptional staff. The Scofflaw has the sauce“

“Great food and a local gem!!! We ate out on the patio and had a lovely meal“

“Elena, ryne, Matt. The staff at the pines room have an amazing vibe. The restaurant is small but that's the appeal. It's an amazing place to hang out and couldn't be a better spot as a regular bar. The drinks are very well made and the staff is very attentive and personable. 100% recommend to check out.“

“Y’all come on out and support my girl Gina, the hostess with the mostess! Sit back and relax in a warm and welcoming environment. Daily food and drink specials, and as always…try your luck at their amazing slots, with all the latest games! Open daily till 2am, 3am Fridays and Saturdays! 😘“

“Great food/drinks Great service Great prices We will be back.“

“Estimados encargados de El Solazo: Espero este mensaje les encuentre bien. Me dirijo a ustedes como un cliente frecuente y admirador de su restaurante, en el cual siempre disfruto de una comida deliciosa y un servicio excepcional. Sin embargo, en mi última visita, experimenté una situación que considero importante señalar para su atención y mejora. El día de hoy, martes 26 de noviembre, llegué a cenar a las 8:45 pm confiando en la información publicada en sus redes sociales, donde claramente se especifica que el horario de cierre es a las 11:00 pm. No obstante, a las 9:30 pm ya se estaba anunciando el "último llamado" para bebidas alcohólicas. Además, durante mi estancia, fui testigo de cómo dos familias fueron rechazadas para cenar por el mismo motivo: el restaurante estaba cerrando antes de tiempo debido a "la falta de clientes". Entiendo que puedan surgir situaciones operativas, pero considero que este tipo de decisiones impacta negativamente en la experiencia de sus clientes. Cuando se anuncia un horario de cierre, los clientes planeamos nuestras visitas en base a esa información. De no ser posible mantener el horario anunciado, sería más transparente ajustarlo oficialmente en sus plataformas para que las personas puedan planear con anticipación y, en caso necesario, optar por otras opciones. Por último, quiero mencionar que esta inconformidad fue compartida con nuestra mesera, quien nos escuchó con amabilidad. Sin embargo, creo que esta situación requiere un ajuste desde la gerencia para evitar malentendidos en el futuro. Agradezco de antemano su atención a esta situación y espero que se tomen las medidas necesarias para garantizar que su excelente servicio sea consistente en todos los aspectos. Atentamente, Jesus Jesse Hernández“

“First time here since the Rivers Casino expansion. Nice long bar with plenty of seats. Vibe and music is bumpin' as well. Ordered a Dirty Martini and was asked if I wanted dry vermouth with it. Friendly and smiley bartenders. Cute martini glass but could not really taste the alcohol. Some interesting characters at the casino in general, but more so here sitting at the bar. There are game machines on the bar top as well.“

“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!“

“Loved the atmosphere the drinks and especially the entertainers!!!“

“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!“

“Absolutely love Vistro! Amazing staff, delicious food, wonderful atmosphere, and superb customer service. It never disappoints!“

“Excellent food and ambiance, The brick chicken is my favorite. Our friends who have lived throughout the country said the pork chop is the best they ever had“

“5 Stars ⭐️ amazing food, highly recommend“

“Excellent customer service. Food was delicious and the prices weren’t bad at all. Highly recommend!“

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

“By far, one of my new favorite restaurants in the city. The food was creative yet simple, the cocktails were craft, and the ambiance was just perfect for the mood. I enjoyed my whole experience so much, I wish I could come here regularly, but unfortunately I do not have that kind of budget. Nettare stole my heart for sure.

And a huge shoutout to the staff, they really made the place so special.“

“Just discovered a new cocktail bar in the Logan Square/Avondale area. It’s cozy, rustic, and has super welcoming vibe. The cocktails are unique and creative; great quality without the crazy price tag. I heard they have DJs on weekends too.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the famous tamales from Claudio, the Tamale Guy. 6 pieces for $12 is a steal.“

“I've visited Osito's Tap a handful of time, but now I definitely need to be a regular. I was here last night for their Preservation bourbon tasting. It was an enjoyable evening learning and tasting some great bourbon, plus a nice dinner menu created by Osito's Tap very own Executive Chef. I've missed out on similar tastings here before, so I was happy to make this one.

As for the bar itself, it's a speakeasy with a giant Mezcal menu. If you're looking for great cocktails, an easy going spot, and good company. Then this is a place to be at. Definitely a GEM in the Little Village neighborhood.“