Top Bars in Chicago – Most Viewed (2025)

Established in 2019, Osito’s Tap is a speakeasy-inspired bar located in Chicago's Little Village neighborhood. Housed in a historic greystone building adjacent to Moreno’s Liquors, this bar pays homage to the area's rich cultural tapestry. Once a Bohemian bar and underground bookie joint, the space now serves as a modern Latinx cocktail haven. Owner Mike Moreno Jr., a third-generation member of the Moreno family, envisioned Osito’s Tap as a community-centric space that celebrates Latin American heritage through craft spirits and cocktails. The bar features a curated selection of tequilas, mezcals, and other agave-based spirits, many sourced from Moreno’s Liquors next door. Signature drinks like the smoky "El Oscuro" Old Fashioned highlight the inventive menu. The interior design reflects its speakeasy roots, with exposed masonry walls, dark millwork, and Talavera tile patterns, creating an ambiance that is both nostalgic and contemporary. Osito’s Tap also offers a health-conscious food menu, emphasizing fresh ingredients and traditional Latin flavors. Beyond its offerings, Osito’s Tap is committed to fostering an inclusive and educational environment, making it a beloved fixture in the Little Village community.

The Aviary, established in 2011 by the Alinea Group, is a trailblazing cocktail bar located in Chicago's West Loop. Helmed by renowned chef Grant Achatz, it brings a fine-dining approach to mixology, treating cocktails as culinary art forms. Bartenders operate in a "cocktail kitchen," crafting drinks with precision and creativity, often employing molecular gastronomy techniques.​ Guests can choose from various experiences: a 3-course cocktail progression, a 5-course food and cocktail pairing, or the exclusive 7-course Kitchen Table Experience. Each option offers a curated journey through innovative flavors and presentations, such as cocktails encased in ice spheres or served with aromatic elements. The Aviary also features "The Office," a speakeasy-style bar beneath the main lounge, offering classic cocktails in an intimate setting.​ Recognized globally, The Aviary has received accolades including a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program and rankings among the World's 50 Best Bars. Its commitment to pushing the boundaries of cocktail culture makes it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.​

The Drifter is an authentic 1920s-era speakeasy nestled beneath the historic Green Door Tavern in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Accessed through a concealed entrance behind a bookshelf, this intimate venue transports guests back to the Prohibition era with its vintage décor, including antique artifacts and circus-themed tapestries. The bar features a unique cocktail menu presented on custom tarot cards, offering a rotating selection of over 100 craft cocktails. Each night, a curated set of drinks is selected, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit. The ambiance is further enhanced by nightly live performances ranging from burlesque and magic to live music, all showcased on a small stage behind a velvet curtain. With seating for approximately 40 guests, The Drifter maintains an exclusive atmosphere, often accompanied by a modest cover charge for entertainment. Patrons can also order food from the Green Door Tavern upstairs, complementing the artisanal drinks with classic bar fare. This hidden gem offers a distinctive blend of history, mixology, and performance art, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique night out in Chicago.

Tucked behind a modest blue door in the West Loop, Kumiko blends minimalist design, Japanese craftsmanship, and world-class mixology. Mastermind Julia Momosé—also behind Michelin‑awarded Oriole—melds omakase-level precision with cocktail artistry in a space defined by light wood, exposed brick, and kumiko-style lattice detailing. The bar offers two distinct experiences: an elegant upstairs dining bar serving à la carte dishes alongside meticulously crafted cocktails, sakes, shochus, and spirit-free “spiritfrees”; and a downstairs whisky‑shochu bar with intimate counter seating open Fridays and Saturdays. Patrons can opt for seasonal tasting menus—pairable with stirred or light cocktails, sakes, or alcohol‑free mixes—or order off-menu from refined small plates like wagyū katsu sando, tempura prawn with edible herbs, or truffle milk toast. Renowned for somber yet warm service embodying omotenashi, Kumiko has earned accolades including Michelin Plate 2022, North America's 50 Best Bars top Midwest spot, and a 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar. Recent visitors rave about the thought-provoking cocktails—“complex and outstanding… the type that makes you think” — and the tactile beauty of the space. Open Wed–Sun evenings (6 PM–11:30 PM), seated dining is reservation‑only for tasting menus, while bar seating may take walk‑ins. Dress smart casual and expect a premium experience—each sip and bite is a curated moment of harmony, precision, and thoughtful Japanese‑inspired hospitality.

SafeHouse Chicago, launched in 2017 in River North, was the Windy City outpost of the iconic Milwaukee spy-themed restaurant established in 1966. Entry began with a cloak-and-dagger moment: discover the unmarked red door, give the password to a “Moneypenny”-style agent, or face a whimsical clearance test – a playful challenge projected for all to see. Inside, the sprawling space featured multiple zones: the Interpol Bar, Spybrary, Seduction Lounge, interrogation rooms, gadget stations, and even a “cone of silence” booth—complete with spy-plane flight deck sections and Berlin Wall fragments as decor. Walls were lined with vintage espionage artifacts, interactive puzzles, and hidden surprises—maker’s dream for curious agents of all ages. The menu married fun and flavor: pun-filled dishes like Fried C4 Cheese Curds, SMERSH Burgers, Prime Rib Timed-Drop Sandwich, pretzel “Stasi Twists,” and layered Spy salads. Cocktails included thematic names like Agent Chi and A Spy’s Demise, with happy hour specials 4–7 PM Wed–Fri at the Interpol Bar. SafeHouse was family-friendly until 9 PM on weekends, then 21+ afterward. It welcomed agents Wed–Thu 4–10 PM, Fri 4–2 AM, Sat 11 AM–2 AM, Sun 11 AM–10 PM. Despite its popularity, the Chicago location closed on March 6, 2023, completing its final mission after six adventurous years. Locals remember it as an immersive, theatrical dining experience blending kitschy Cold War nostalgia, interactive fun, and hearty bar fare.

Three Dots and a Dash is a renowned tiki bar nestled in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Accessible via a discreet alleyway entrance, patrons descend into a subterranean haven adorned with Polynesian artifacts, bamboo accents, and ambient lighting that transports guests to a tropical paradise. The bar boasts an extensive menu of meticulously crafted cocktails, utilizing fresh exotic fruits, house-made syrups, and a diverse selection of rums and spirits. Signature drinks like the namesake "Three Dots and a Dash" pay homage to classic tiki concoctions while offering modern twists. For those seeking a more intimate experience, The Bamboo Room—a 22-seat enclave within the bar—provides personalized service and a curated menu featuring rare and vintage rums. Beyond beverages, the establishment offers Polynesian-inspired bites, enhancing the immersive experience. With its combination of authentic décor, innovative drinks, and attentive service, Three Dots and a Dash stands as a premier destination for both tiki enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Hidden beneath the celebrated molecular cocktail haven The Aviary, The Office is a 21-seat vintage speakeasy that flips high-concept on its head with relaxed riffs on classic drinks and rare spirits. Behind an unmarked door, you’ll step into a space that feels like a well-appointed, wealthy Wisconsin man-cave—dark, comfy, unpretentious—with a bartender who’s part archivist, part mixology guru. On the menu, expect timeless cocktails—Martinis, Old Fashioneds, Daiquiris—but executed with top-tier technique, house-made ingredients, and tailored to the moment. Want to leave it to chance? Go for Dealer’s Choice, and let the bartender curate your night, flavor-by-flavor. Reservations are strongly encouraged, and cannot be walked into easily; a polite text requesting a spot is often the best way to secure a seat. The setting is tiny but warm—perfect for whispered conversation, subtle indulgence, and the kind of immersive cocktail experience that feels personal and rare. Even Time Out recommends the “Office Hour”—a 60-minute guided experience featuring two bespoke cocktails with food pairings, ideal for easing into or unwinding from a night out.

Nestled in Logan Square, Billy Sunday has been a celebrated Chicago staple since 2013, masterfully blending hospitality with cocktail creativity. Step inside and you're greeted by moody lighting, rich wooden surfaces, and a curated back bar that whispers "vintage meets modern." Cocktails here are smart, inventive takes on classics. Expect seasonal, house-made tinctures—from delicate herbal extracts to bitters made in-house—paired with playful creations and powerful riffs on tradition. Try the Vintage Amaro Daiquiri or the Victorian and ask for the “Good Book,” a legendary reserve list featuring rare vintages of amari and Scotch whiskies. But don't overlook the kitchen—helmed by owner-chef Matthias Merges—where unexpected flavors shine. Must-tries include the whimsical green bean casserole with bacon and crispy pig ears, flaming saganaki, monkey bread with carrot harissa and ramp butter, and elegant steak tartare. Each bite is crafted to complement a drink—and conversation. Hospitality here strikes the perfect balance: relaxed and welcoming without losing polish. Staffers are knowledgeable, attentive, and delight in sharing their passion—whether you're intrigued by their back bar or experimenting with amaro flights. In short, Billy Sunday is where Chicago's cocktail culture feels homey yet elevated—a place to linger over artful drinks, surprising eats, and genuine Midwestern warmth.

Hidden in the depths of Chicago’s River North district, The Bamboo Room is a "bar within a bar"—an exclusive outpost nestled inside the famed Three Dots and a Dash. Accessible only via a secretive alleyway, this hushed retreat houses just 22 seats and is dedicated entirely to the art and magic of rum cocktails. Within these moody walls, beverage maven Kevin Beary and his team craft sophisticated, globally inspired rum experiences. The bar's back shelves are stocked with rare and vintage rums spanning Jamaica, Martinique, St. Lucia, and beyond—each cocktail telling a story of its origin. Highlights include a daiquiri poured over hand‑shaved ice, the creamy Clairvoyant Missionary (a mint‑chartreuse‑topped milk punch), and a rich Grog—each drink meticulously balanced and artfully delivered. True tiki aficionados are drawn here—and not just for the exceptional drinks. The Bamboo Room is a sanctuary for discovery and education, where bartenders engage in one‑on‑one storytelling, guiding guests through rum flights or exclusive guided tastings tailored to personal preference. Case in point: the famed $800 Mai Tai, a painstaking recreation of the 1944 Trader Vic original, made using vintage 1950s Wray & Nephew 15‑Year‑Old Rum and rare curaçao—a cocktail archeology feat in both taste and presentation. Though small, the atmosphere is rich with texture—tiki‑nic décor, dim lighting, and hushed ambiance that calls for quiet conversation and indulgence. To experience it, reservations are strongly encouraged—especially on weekends—since walk‑ins are rare and capacity is limited. All told, The Bamboo Room isn’t just a bar—it’s an immersive guided journey through rum’s global heritage, executed with elegance, expertise, and exceptional storytelling in every pour.

Tucked away at 1939 W North Ave in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighbourhood, Dorian’s is a creative hybrid of record-shop hideaway and stylish cocktail lounge. You walk through the modest storefront of Through The Record Shop and into a world of dim lighting, elegant design and serious sound. Inside, an Italian-hi-fi sound system pumps vinyl DJ sets or live jazz and instrumental performances on a small stage. The space is intimate, with seating arranged to allow both lounging and attentive listening. The cocktail menu is curated—fewer items, more focus—so each drink feels special. Expect a night of music-forward ambiance, expert bartending and an aesthetic that blends retro vinyl culture with modern lounge comfort. Dorian’s works well as a date-night destination, a meet-up before a larger bar-crawl, or a place to settle in and listen. It’s not a riotous dance club—it’s more about the vibe, the sound, the aesthetic. On weekends expect a crowd, possibly a cover charge after 8 pm. For the best experience: arrive early, grab a seat near the sound system, and enjoy the interplay of music and mixology.

Located in Chicago’s vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, Big Mini Putt Club offers a unique fusion of indoor mini-golf and bar lounge rolled into one lively venue. At their 1302 N Milwaukee Ave location you’ll find a full 9-hole course designed for fun and challenge across all skill levels — the team behind it built the holes from scratch, intent on creating a place where mini-golf meets night out. Once you arrive, you don’t just play a quick round and leave – you stay for the vibes. Free games like giant Jenga, connect-4, ring toss and video games keep things moving while you wait or wind down. The bar serves up signature cocktails, draft beers and wines, and in many cases you can pair your putting with a drink in hand. Whether you’re there for a celebration (party packages available) or just a spontaneous night out, the atmosphere leans playful, social and slightly nostalgic—think retro mini-golf meets craft-cocktail lounge. One nice feature: they allow minors with a parent/guardian until 8PM, then switch to 21+ after. During your visit, you might finish your first round of 9 holes in 30-45 minutes, but with the unlimited option you can keep going and really make an evening of it. The venue also hosts leagues, group events and charity-linked specials (e.g., “Chari-tee Tuesdays”). In short: Big Mini Putt Club is more than just a bar. It’s an experience—perfect for friends who want something beyond drinks, or teams looking for a fun, team-building outing with a twist.

Scofflaw offers Chicago locals (and savvy visitors) a warm, unpretentious escape where cocktails take center-stage and the vibe is all about comfort and community. Nestled in the heart of Logan Square at 3201 W Armitage Ave, the bar welcomes you with a cozy, Victorian-style salon marked by tufted banquettes, exposed brick, Edison-bulb lighting and even a fireplace — giving off the feel of a vintage parlor where you can settle in and stay a while. From a stool at the long bar to a cushioned seat by the fireplace or a table on the patio (on nice evenings), Scofflaw thrives on variety — whether you’re after a strong gin cocktail, a pint of craft beer, a shared snack or a full late-night meal. Cocktails are the main draw. Known as one of Chicago’s top gin-focused cocktail bars, Scofflaw regularly rotates its menu and showcases creative blends — from herbaceous gin-and-Chartreuse concoctions to tropical-inspired spritzes and nuanced classics. But don’t neglect the food: from a solid double cheeseburger or pork belly dishes to seasonal small plates and vegetarian-friendly options, the kitchen backs up the drinks with satisfying fare. Come late — if you stay until around midnight — you might be treated to complimentary freshly-baked chocolate chip cookies, a beloved little tradition among regulars. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed date-night spot, a post-concert drink, a catch-up with friends or a cozy solo cocktail, Scofflaw’s friendly staff, unpretentious atmosphere and strong drinks make it a standout in Chicago’s bar scene.

Tucked away above the cozy café The Bourgeois Pig Café in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighbourhood, The Gatsby Speakeasy offers a time-warp into the decadent elegance of the 1920s. As you ascend to the second floor and proceed down the hallway, a hidden bookcase door swings open to reveal opulent velvet-lined rooms, antique oil paintings (some dating to the 1820s), carved wood furnishings, and chandeliers casting a soft glow over a library-inspired lounge. The ambiance is rich, mysterious and intimate: jazz crooners, big band echoes, rich mahogany and shelves packed with books. Cocktail devotees are in for a treat: the bartenders expertly craft bespoke drinks that align with literary themes — some referencing novels (starting with The Great Gatsby) and others tailored on request Small-plate sharables like smoked fish and cheese boards complement the experience — making it as much a social outing as a drinking adventure. Reservations are recommended, especially for the coveted “library” section. Entry involves solving a short riddle and using a password — true speakeasy drama. In short: if you’re looking for an elevated night out, rich in atmosphere, craft and nostalgia — The Gatsby Speakeasy delivers a memorable escape from the ordinary.

From the team behind Logan Square staples Lardon & Union, Meadowlark is a lean, thoughtfully curated cocktail lounge tucked into a century-old building on W Palmer Street. You enter behind an unmarked door (only a stylized bird silhouette hints at what lies beyond). Inside, the space feels like a reclaimed library or gentleman’s parlor — exposed brick, rafters, leather seating, vintage glass lamps, and curated antiques. The bar is compact: seating for about 30. What sets Meadowlark apart is its rotating themed cocktail menus that draw from local history, nature, or childhood memories. One menu was bird-themed (“Midwestern Birds”); another reflected the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago. Drinks are inventive without being showy — balanced, narrative, approachable. Though intimate, the service aims high: bartenders are friendly, knowledgeable, and engage in conversation rather than hiding behind facades. The place has earned acclaim: it appears in North America’s 50 Best Bars lists. It’s a bar you go to when you want to slow down: to sit at the bar, talk drinks, try something new, and maybe spend an hour or more in quiet reverie.

Lazy Bird is a sultry, subterranean escape beneath The Hoxton hotel in Chicago’s Fulton Market / West Loop district. With its softly lit, intimate setting — think low lighting, rich textures, cozy booths and a marble-topped bar — the lounge evokes a vintage-inspired, mid-century cocktail den. Inside, the space feels designed for conversation, cocktails and quiet indulgence — until live music takes over. On many nights (especially Thursday through Saturday), the room fills with soulful tunes, from jazz and soul to contemporary live sets, giving Lazy Bird a dual identity: refined cocktail lounge by day, energy-filled music venue by night. The drink program is a highlight: over 50 classic cocktails, each carefully crafted and often with creative twists. Whether you’re in the mood for an elegant Aviation, a nuanced Daiquiri, or a more adventurous, house-designed concoction, the bartenders here know their craft. Food is minimal — a few snacks or small bites — so Lazy Bird is best visited as a drink-first destination. This keeps the focus on the ambiance, the music and the drinks themselves. Because of its clubby, often crowded vibe on live-music nights, Lazy Bird works particularly well for nights out with friends or a special date night, rather than a quiet dinner. If you seek calm and intimacy, opt for a weekday evening or an earlier arrival. For a more vibrant experience, pick a live-music night and enjoy the energy.

Walking into Gilt Bar, you enter a world of warm amber glow, leather banquettes, candle-lit tables and a vintage, intimate vibe that feels worlds away from the bustle of River North. From the moment you step through the door at 230 W Kinzie, you’ll notice the subtle sophistication: a long, polished bar up front, a softly lit lounge, and further back a dining area that leads to an open kitchen. The place exudes a ’grown-up’ energy — dark, inviting, and just a touch secretive. Gilt Bar isn’t just about drinks — though its handcrafted cocktails and well-curated wine list are already reason enough to visit. The kitchen serves contemporary American fare: house-made pastas, shareable small plates, rich entrees (think bone-marrow toast, steak tartare, coal-fired ribeyes, crispy fried chicken) and indulgent desserts. Many dishes — like the truffle mafaldine or ricotta gnocchi — are shared favorites, but you’ll also find hearty mains like salmon or ribeyes for a full meal. The food’s bold flavors and generous portions make this spot ideal for a satisfying dinner AND a night out. Downstairs lies “The Library,” a hidden speakeasy-style room that evokes old-school Chicago nightlife — perfect for a quiet drink or private gathering. The atmosphere is relaxed but stylish; many come for cocktails and stay for dinner, while others linger over wine and dessert. Despite its popularity, Gilt Bar remains more approachable than many upscale restaurants: walk-ins at the bar are welcome, though tables fill quickly and reservations are often booked out 21 days in advance. Whether you’re on a date, out with friends, or simply craving a great cocktail and comforting meal, Gilt Bar delivers. The vibe is sultry, the food is satisfying, and the drinks hit the spot.

Tucked discreetly behind an understated door at 12 W Elm Street, Sparrow delivers a sultry, timeless escape from the bustle of Chicago streets. Housed in a 1927 Art Deco building, this intimate cocktail lounge evokes the elegance of old-school hotel lobby bars. Inside, you’ll discover moody lighting, dark wood, plush banquettes, and vintage touches — think old-fashioned phone booths, walls studded with antique hotel keys, and a décor that whispers Prohibition-era glamour. Sparrow’s soul lives in its cocktails. With a rum-heavy menu featuring spirits from dozens of countries, it’s a haven for rum aficionados. Classics like the Hotel Nacional (apricot liqueur, pineapple rum and lime) or a simple, expertly made daiquiri — plus rotating pours and 1-oz tastings — give you room to explore the global rum spectrum. But the bartenders are equally happy mixing up something off-menu if you’ve got a craving. There’s no kitchen here, no food to distract from the drinks-and-ambience experience. Instead, Sparrow thrives on atmosphere: low conversations, vintage music, and a sultry hush that feels perfect for a date night or a mellow after-work unwind. On weekends you might face a line — the narrow space fills quickly. Despite that, the vibe remains effortlessly cool: classy without being pretentious, intimate without being exclusive. If you'd like, you can also reserve parts of the bar for private events — from a cozy lounge for 20 to a full-bar takeover for 130 guests. It’s a place not just for drinks, but for experiences: a toast to old-world glamour in the heart of Chicago.