“Was sent here to enjoy a drink while we waited for our table nextdoor from the owner Armando at La Scarola. Despite not being a smoker, there was nostalgia around enjoying a drink in the smokey Cheers inspired ambience. A bartender even put on Svengoolie which just wrapped it all together. I enjoyed a Limoncello and my date a whiskey neat. Enjoying a little taste of old school Chicago wasn't originally planned but definitely appreciated!“
“This place offers the most quintessential neighborhood bar feel with more than a few trucks up it's sleeve. From the best smash burger you will ever have in your life (only $6), to Angostura shots, to a booze filled mint green shake you cannot finish, this bar has it all. The staff are happy and have a good vibe between each other which made me feel happy to be there. The place was absolutely packed but no one was rude or pushy. Just a great vibe over all with great drinks and great food. Definitely recommend.“
“No food but have chips if you ask. One of the best bars in Chicago. Top ten on my list. Mostly artist and locals. And the occasional person looking for a bezt dive bar. Great place to meet friends and make friends. The bar staff has always been my favorite.“
“Visiting for work a couple days and had some down time to kill. 1st day, met Frank.. super friendly and made me feel welcomed. Played darts with some people from Belgium. Touch tunes and drinks are priced right. Met Jeff and regular and Mark the 2nd day I came. Great dive bar!!“
“This is one of my favorite bars on earth, and I’ve done my best to see visit as many as I can across four continents. I took a break of about five years in between visits once and the bartenders still remembered my name. Classy. As you know, it’s cash only. Some other rules are that you can’t fall asleep at the bar. But, being drunk on its own is fine. I think there is still no TV, thank goodness.“
“I'm so glad G's is back open! The whole vibe of the place has changed. Make sure you stop by to see Esther on Wed or Fri. She makes the whole experience better! From having a expert knowledge of drinks to her warm and welcoming personality, she makes your night! It's a lively and colrful feel and the patio is out of this world!“
“Really cool spot. You wouldn't even think it's a functioning bar from the outside, but when you walk in, you're greeted with a really neat ambience. It reminds me of the salty platoon from SpongeBob but with an incredibly friendly staff. The music they have is great. Super cool bar- 10/10 recommend“
“great local spot...a family member's show thankfully led me here--when i've lived in the area for years. sadly didn't visit sooner but will now always keep in mind. they were out of a few drink ingredients but i still really enjoyed my visit - love the chalkboard menu and intimate setting for a show. can't wait to hang out in the beer garden on cooler evening.“
“I've been knows the number of times and I've always liked it. They've done a lot building out the rear space and that's nice to have expanded area because it was a little bit tight before. They have a stage in the main area which allows them to have entertainment.“
“My experience at this bar was in the late 70s and early 80s. My husband, Michael and his partner Micky owned this place when my husband was in medical school. There was one of many brawls here that were just hilarious. One in February when the entire bar cleared into the street and “dibs” chairs were thrown everywhere. The police showed up and everyone was back in the bar like nothing happened. It had a liquor rack over the square bar. There was a neighborhood Elvis impersonator dancing on the bar. All at once the liquor rack crashed onto the bar. My husband proposed to me there. Always something with a cast of characters. I’m sure it’s very different now. Great memories ??“
“Going to corner bar is an experience for the select of Chicago. Big shout outs to Jamie, Bill, and Shawneice who keep the vibes going, the tequila flowing, and a dart board that can easily enthrall the whole bar. If dive bars with funny, caring, silly people aren’t your thing - steer clear!“
“I love going to Fritzy's Tavern if they accept credit cards, debit cards, Google Pay and Apple Pay. I can't wait to go this good bar again. My favorite bar is better than The Anvil. If you're not satisfied with the gay bar The Anvil that only accept cash, DON'T GO THERE on Granville Ave.“
“Excellent old school Ukrainian Village bar. No sign on the front which is already a good sign (no pun intended). Great drink prices and great bartender, Clayton. Had a Bell's Two-Hearted, bought a t-shirt and continued my bar crawl. Great first stop.“
“What can I say about this place that hasn't been said already? One of the best venues in the city. Cheap drinks, affordable ticket prices, cool staff, great sound. All the makings of a perfect spot. Sure, it's not fancy or brand new. But its dive bar charm and long history stacks it up against any other venue around. If you're looking for a chill time with some good music, I highly suggest giving the Bottle a visit.“
“We met up with friends and family members on Thanksgiving weekend, and had a blast! The band was awesome and made the night- Patrick Bale and the Pale Ales- hope to see them play again soon! The atmosphere is so unique, with character and charm, also artsy and styled- fun for all ages. We didn’t eat but drinks (and shots!) were flowing. We’ll be back for sure.“
“On my recent visit to Chicago me and my wife found the Shamrock and visited the bar 3 times. Every time drinks and service was first class and friendly staff and locals. Special shout out to Fabian.The wife loved Hendricks and tonic.Will definitely be returning on our next trip to Chicago to our favourite bar in Chicago.“
“Stumbled in here by chance and had a great time on a somewhat busy night. Cheap drinks, cold beer, and Nilda is an absolute angel. Her pup Frijolito is a lil cutie too. I hope Nilda is able to keep this place in business for years to come as they don’t make ‘em like this anymore!“
“I think about this place often when I want to take a mental break. It is so cozy, eclectic, filled with history, random vintage sales upstairs, the almost Harry Potter like ambiance - it's the perfect mix of history, effortless cool, and mystery.“
“walked by randomly on a Wednesday and went to the bar where I heard some music. the band was excellent, a really unique style, but brilliant. but the best part was meeting Thomas, the bar manager. as soon as I walked in he greeted me warmly and upon hearing it's my first time in Chicago, a shot was poured and I got the lowdown on local beers. I had a good chat with Thomas and could see how he was well liked by everyone there. would love to go back“
“Last stop in Logan Square. Last bar before heading home. Favorite bar. Cash only is ok. Loved this bar. I stuck with beers, but my family had some cocktails. Bartender on Friday night was awesome! Bar had an old-school feel. It was later in the night and was more crowded. Lots of fun! There was a nice outdoor area. It looks like they may have live music, too. This was my favorite of the 4 or 5 bars we visited on this trip.“
“Whiskey River Bar & Grill, nestled in the heart of the North Shore is more than just a watering hole—it's a beacon of camaraderie, a testament to the alchemy of good food and spirited beverages, masterfully blended under the watchful eyes of its custodians, Matt, Virginia, and the unparalleled Athena. With an ambiance that whispers of nights filled with laughter and music, this establishment offers a sanctuary for those weary of the world's cacophony, seeking solace in the arms of a perfectly crafted gin martini or the crispy embrace of a chicken sandwich that beckons with the promise of addiction.Here, every visit is an odyssey through culinary delights, from the eggs benedict that sing a symphony of flavors to the embrace of a free parking lot that awaits without judgment. Whiskey River is not just a bar; it's a crucible where the spirits of hospitality meld with the essence of community, birthing an experience that transcends the mundane.In an age where the digital ether threatens to usurp our sense of connection, Whiskey River stands as a bastion of the tangible, the real. It's a place where the strumming of a guitar on a Wednesday jam night brings strangers together, bound by the universal language of music and the magnetic pull of Matt's hospitality. It's a realm where Athena, with her unmatched prowess behind the bar, weaves magic into every drink, turning first-time visitors into lifelong patrons, drawn back time and again by the allure of a place that feels like a second home.The transformation under new ownership is a delicate dance between preservation and innovation, where the essence of what made Whiskey River a beloved haunt remains untouched, even as subtle changes imbue it with new life. It's a testament to the understanding that in the world of bars and grills, the soul of a place is its people—both those who serve and those who are served.In Glenview, a town that dances to the rhythm of its own beat, Whiskey River Bar & Grill is more than a mere establishment; it's a chapter in the story of a community that finds joy in the simple pleasures of good food, great drinks, and the company of those who share in the unspoken bond of humanity. It is here, amidst the laughter and clinking glasses, that one remembers the beauty of life in its unvarnished truth, a reminder that in the end, it is not the places we go, but the memories we make and the hearts we touch that truly matter.So, to those wandering souls searching for a place where authenticity reigns supreme, where the gin is always perfect, and the chicken sandwich becomes a craving you can't ignore, look no further than Whiskey River Bar & Grill. Here, in this haven on Waukegan Road, you will find more than just a meal or a drink—you will find a piece of home.“
“Just stopped in coz i needed the bathroom. A quick shot and a sip of water and out the door. It looked interesting and the bartender was friendly, especially since no one was in the place on a Sunday afternoon. I will return for some drinking next time I am in the area.“
“I watched Andrew Luck beat Peyton Manning in a playoff game in this bar in January of 2015. I was there with my cousin, his wife, and some friends. Never been back, but we still incessantly reference “The Sovereign” any chance we get, nearly 10 years later. It’s that kinda bar ??“
“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! ?“
“Food ok. Lots of beer options. We got the bait and switch on Sunday. We can in and asked where we could see the Giants game. They said anywhere. AFTER we ordered drinks and food they can over and said they don’t have Sunday ticket. That’s terrible. Will never come back“
“Cody's is a great time. Staff is very friendly and attentive. Although it can get very crowded on the weekends, if you can claim a spot by a dart board or the pool table, you won't want to leave. It's also worth mentioning that the back patio is a very chill vibe on summer nights. The only thing keeping me from giving Cody's 5 stars is that if you go earlier in the day, you will find adults who bring their children who will often times run around unattended. Cody's is also pet friendly which is awesome. However after having a few drinks, it becomes worrisome that you can easily step on some of the small dogs that are hard to spot. Overall, Cody's is great.“
“This place is a great local watering hole. I wouldn't come here looking for a classy cocktail bar - it's ideal for cheap drinks and conversation. The space isn't very large, but the space wasn't crowded. I had a great time - six bucks for a beer and a “
“This is the best alley in the city. The owner is beyond kind and truly supportive from beginners to pros.The bar is great, it's byof, bring your own food. Lots of options near here, or get a candy bar and chips. They have a jukebox you can select songs on, and lockers for your balls.Pencil scoring old school awesome bowling here!“
“Came here for the musical night.The ambience was nice. I like the blue fairy lights hanging down. A lot of Detroit Lions decor.Tables on both side and the 3 performers walked in the middle. The singers were better than I expected! They mainly stay in the inside of the restaurant but they also walked to the bar area where there were some more tables. One of them engaged with every table while she sang. The male singer could be a lot better if he didn’t leave the mic so close to his mouth.There were trivia games in between performances. So you were not listening to musical songs the whole time.The ticket ($65) includes one drink and one food item. The choices were pizza and chicken tenders. Food was okay. It’s a little pricey. Glad the singers were good though.Metered street parking outside.“
“Always a great time free pool on Thursdays Pizza is awesome too all the bartenders are very friendly. Charlie is awesome also if you catch him on the right day he might play a game of pool with you .This is a local pub they don't specialize in any specialty drinks they'll make you one but this is not downtown. This is just your nice neighborhood pub to enjoy some music on the jukebox and have a nice cocktail and beer they also have darts located in the back bring your own darts steel tip. They don't supply darts or sell them but they do have dart boards.“
“You have to like dives, but if you like dives they deliver on high end & low end options for every beer or spirit variety. A great place to watch any sporting event from Soccer to Baseball to College Basketball. A phenomenonal back patio & to go options too.“
“This is a small town community pub in a big city. Think "Cheers" atmosphere. I was in from out of town looking for a place to watch the Superbowl, they don't have huge TVs, but the had a pot luck for their patrons and the atmosphere was so friendly and welcoming. I was delighted with the experience.“
“Cool place that's a dive but it's also clean. It's also pretty cheap for some stiff ass drinks. Keenan O'Reilly's sounds like an Irish pub, but it can seem like any kind of pub. Has no food but they let customers bring some in. There's lots of TVs for watching games or stuff. Best thing about this place is that it's cheap. It's about $6 for some basic cocktails, even with the good stuff like Jameson. Find some harder to find things in bottles and cans. They also have a reach in cooler full of good stuff. Among the not as usual things is the PBR made with cold brew. There's also a back room with ping pong and pool tables. Play around with some balls. There's also a juke box that has classics and others. For sure it's not Irish. It's just a regular dive bar pretty much. That's okay because the drinks are good and cheap though.“
“I'm kicking myself that I didn't get to this place sooner. I've driven past it for years. They are dog friendly yet they serve food, albeit a limited menu. That's unusual and a huge plus for me and my pups. I got a burger and it was solid. I don't remember the price but it was fair, as we're the drinks. I will definitely be returning.“
“Good old divey ass bar. If you're around Montrose and Sheridan this is one of the big hangouts. Driftwood is casual and fun. Prices are pretty okay and there's usually some specials going on. The only strange thing is the hours can be weird. A lot of reasons to come here. If coming to watch a game, this is a good place. There's lots of TVs. Also if you like to play games. Lots are here playing darts or pool. Gets crowded. May be a wait before you can play. As for the drinks, not bad. It's about $6 for a cocktail. These are basic, but hey it's good prices. Besides people, it's also good to bring dogs. If dogs need water they give out bowls free. The strangest thing about this place is that it's closed Sundays.“
“Dang ol great place man. Went with dang ol Gribble, Hank and Bill for Bobby's dang ol birthday man. Dang ol pizza was great man. Bartender was that dang ol funny and listened when Gribble went on about conspiracies man. When I need an Alamo, I'm coming to Side street man and play dang ol Willie Nelson on Touchtunes man. ♥️“
“The food is consistently very good & fresh. The burgers are smaller than they used to be & more than a little pricey. The shrimp cocktail is very tasty with horseradish in the sauce. The french fries & coleslaw are also really good too.“
“This is one of the best venues for emerging, up-and-coming bands on Chicago's north side. Typically one flat fee of 15 bucks, and that gets you in all night to see at least four to five bands. If you don't like the music of the band you're listening to wait a little while and a new one is up there. Bands rotate every hour on the hour. It's a cool and friendly atmosphere“
“It is what it is, a neighborhood watering hole "where everybody knows your name." Divey? I'd rather describe this come-as-you-are joint as "down to earth." Neither trendy nor upscale, it nonetheless feels as familiar and comfortable as a well-worn easy chair. When we visited, the bar was populated with Generation X-ers and Millennials. The owner is friendly and welcoming. There is a small room in the back which can be rented for private parties. There's no kitchen, but you can bring in your own food.“