Chicago is a vibrant city that embraces diversity and creativity. With its rich blend of cultures, it offers an amazing array of cocktails and cuisine. Here’s a guide to some of the best bars in Chicago.
Chicago is known for its spectacular rooftop bars and distinctive speakeasy-style venues. The city’s cocktail scene has evolved significantly from its tumultuous prohibition era. The locals are friendly and appreciate a well-crafted cocktail. So, let’s explore some of the must-visit bars in this dynamic city.
Raised Bar
Situated in the Renaissance Hotel, Raised Bar offers stunning views of The River North Neighborhood in Downtown Chicago. Enjoy your drinks inside on elegant couches or outside as you watch boats pass by. For groups, renting a private cabana is an option. The bar also features delicious small bites.
– Must try: Truffle Frites, Raised Burger, Watered Flowers, and Thai’d Up.
– Prices: Cocktails and wine: $15-$20, Beer: $7-$10, Small bites: $8-$12, Meals: $12-$22.
– Location: 1 West Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
Cindy’s
Located atop the Chicago Athletic Association, Cindy’s provides breathtaking views of Millennium Park and the harbor. This stylish rooftop bar is perfect for dressing up. The cocktail menu pays homage to old apothecaries, with creatively crafted drinks.
– Must try: Seasonal offerings like Avocado Toast for brunch, Leila, and Siempre, Si cocktails.
– Prices: Cocktails and wine: $14-$26, Brunch/Lunch: $14-$36, Dinner: $14-$70.
– Location: 12 South Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
RPM Italian
RPM Italian provides a modern, upscale environment, ideal for special occasions in the River North neighborhood. The drinks are creative and beautifully presented.
– Must try: Spritz & Giggles cocktail, Black Truffle Beef Tartare.
– Prices: Cocktails: $13+, Wine: $11-$28, Appetizers: $6-$18, Dinner plates: $14-$45.
– Location: 52 West Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654
Bavette’s
This Parisian-inspired, dark, and romantic bar in River West features an impressive menu and amazing cocktails. The venue includes a hidden subterranean bar with jazz music for a prohibition-era feel.
– Must try: Tenderloin Steak Tartare, Roasted Bone Marrow, and Tokyo Old Fashioned.
– Prices: Cocktails: $11-$20, Whiskey: $10-$80+, Small plates: $14-$28, Meals: $26+.
– Location: 218 West Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
The Tortoise Supper Club
This elegant club, filled with historical pieces, features live jazz music on weekends and offers $1 oysters on weekdays.
– Must try: Classic Aviation cocktail, Grilled Octopus, Miso Brioche Rolls, Grasshopper milkshake.
– Prices: Cocktails: $13+, Wine: $12-$25, Appetizers: $7-$22, Entrees: $28+.
– Location: 350 North State St, Chicago, IL 60654
Andy’s Jazz Club
Known for live jazz music, Andy’s is a comfortable and unpretentious bar that dates back to the ’70s. It hosts at least two bands each evening.
– Must try: Well-known cocktails, beers, wines, and Andy’s Burger.
– Prices: Cocktails: $13, Beer and wine: $6-$25, Dinner: $6-$31.
– Location: 11 East Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611
3 Arts Club Café
Located inside Restoration Hardware in the Gold Coast neighborhood, this beautiful café is perfect for enjoying a glass of wine in an elegant setting.
– Must try: Bellini, Truffled Grilled Cheese, and warm Chocolate Chip Cookie.
– Prices: Wines: $13, Meals: $12-$29.
– Location: 1300 North Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610
The Purple Pig
Just steps from Michigan Ave., The Purple Pig offers Illinois beers and a menu based on seasonal finds. It’s a great spot for a break from shopping and sightseeing.
– Must try: Bone marrow and regional cocktails.
– Prices: Cocktails: $12+, Whiskey: $12-$50+, Beers: $7-$13+, Small plates: $9-$23, Main dishes: $26+.
– Location: 500 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Cochon Volant
This delicious spot in The Loop is great for brunch and pre-theater cocktails. It features a warm ambiance with a modern Parisian twist.
– Must try: Weekend Brunch, Monsieur Foster Waffles, thickcutbacon, The Old Fashioned cocktail.
– Prices: Cocktails: $14, Brunch: $13+, Small plates: $9+, Dinner plates: $16+.
– Location: 100 West Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
The Aviary
A top-rated bar in the West Loop, The Aviary is known for its innovative cocktails. It is essential to make a reservation as it’s often fully booked.
– Must try: Everything. Be prepared to take lots of photos.
– Prices: Cocktails: $18-$25+, Small bites: $11-$25.
– Location: 955 West Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
Chicago’s bar scene is constantly evolving, but these ten spots have earned their place as some of the best bars in the city. Enjoy sipping and savoring your way through this incredible metropolis!
