Looking for the best cocktail bars in Chicago? Chicago is a city that’s renowned for its vibrant food and drink scene. From deep-dish pizza to world-class craft beer, the Windy City has something for everyone. One area where the city truly excels is in its cocktail bars. With so many exceptional establishments to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best cocktail bars in Chicago.
Untitled Supper Club
111 W Kinzie St Chicago, IL 60654
Located in the River North neighborhood, Untitled Supper Club is a sophisticated cocktail bar that’s perfect for a night out. As the name suggests, the venue also offers a full supper club experience with live music and a menu of upscale American cuisine. The atmosphere is dark and moody, with a speakeasy vibe that transports you back in time.
When it comes to cocktails, Untitled Supper Club doesn’t disappoint. The bar is renowned for its classic drinks, including the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, as well as its more creative concoctions. The bar team is skilled at creating unique flavor combinations that are both delicious and visually impressive. One standout cocktail is the “Chasing Waterfalls,” made with gin, lavender, lemon, and butterfly pea flower tea.
In addition to its exceptional drinks, Untitled Supper Club also has an impressive whiskey selection. With more than 500 bottles on offer, it’s the perfect place to go if you’re a whiskey connoisseur. The bar also offers whiskey flights and tastings, so you can try a variety of different varieties.
Three Dots and a Dash
435 N Clark St (in the alley) Chicago, IL 60654
Located in the River North neighborhood, Three Dots and a Dash is a tiki bar that’s perfect for escaping the Chicago cold. The decor is tropical and colorful, with plenty of bamboo and tiki masks.
When it comes to drinks, Three Dots and a Dash is known for its inventive tiki cocktails. The bar team is skilled at creating drinks that transport you to a far-off island, with plenty of exotic flavors and garnishes. One standout cocktail is the “Painkiller,” made with rum, coconut, orange, and pineapple.
In addition to drinks, Three Dots and a Dash also has a menu of Polynesian-inspired small plates and snacks. From the crab rangoon to the grilled pork belly, the dishes are designed to complement the drinks. The bar also offers a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and snacks.
Bourbon on Division
2050 W Division St Chicago, IL 60622
If you’re a bourbon lover, then Bourbon on Division is the place for you. Located in the Wicker Park neighborhood, this bar is all about the brown liquor. The decor is rustic and cozy, with exposed brick walls and a fireplace that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
When it comes to drinks, Bourbon on Division has an extensive list of bourbon, rye, and whiskey options. Whether you prefer your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, there’s something for everyone. The bar team is skilled at creating delicious drinks that highlight the flavors of the whiskey. One standout cocktail is the “Rum Chata Horchata,” made with bourbon, Rum Chata, horchata, and cinnamon.
In addition to its impressive whiskey selection, Bourbon on Division also has a menu of elevated pub food. From the fried chicken sandwich to the smoked brisket, the dishes are hearty and flavorful. It’s the perfect spot to go if you’re looking for a relaxed evening of good food and drinks.
Rebel & Rye
726 W Grand Ave Chicago, IL 60654
Located in the River North neighborhood, Rebel & Rye is a sleek and stylish cocktail bar that’s perfect for a night out with friends. The decor is modern and chic, with a large central bar that’s perfect for mingling.
When it comes to cocktails, Rebel & Rye offers a mix of classic drinks and inventive creations. The bar team is skilled at creating drinks that balance bold flavors with a smooth finish. One standout cocktail is the “Pear Necessities,” made with vodka, pear brandy, St. Germain, lemon, and honey.
In addition to its exceptional drinks, Rebel & Rye also has a menu of elevated American cuisine. From the crispy Brussels sprouts to the grilled ribeye, the dishes are designed to be shared. The bar also offers a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and snacks, making it a great spot to visit after work.
Twisted Spoke
501 N Ogden Chicago, IL 60642
Located in the West Town neighborhood, Twisted Spoke is a dive bar that’s beloved by locals. The decor is eclectic, with a mishmash of motorcycle memorabilia, vintage signs, and taxidermy. The bar is known for its impressive whiskey selection, which includes more than 400 different varieties.
In addition to whiskey, Twisted Spoke also has a menu of inventive cocktails. The drinks are made with fresh ingredients and creative flavor combinations. One standout cocktail is the “Wisconsin Grasshopper,” made with ice cream, brandy, and crème de menthe. The bar also has a menu of pub food, including burgers, wings, and nachos.
The Berkshire Room
15 E Ohio Chicago 60611
Located in the River North neighborhood, The Berkshire Room is a sleek and stylish cocktail lounge that’s perfect for a special occasion. The decor is elegant, with dark wood paneling and plush leather seating.
When it comes to drinks, The Berkshire Room is known for its classic cocktails and inventive creations. The bar team is skilled at creating drinks that are both delicious and visually impressive. One standout cocktail is the “Earl Grey MarTEAni,” made with gin, Earl Grey tea, lemon, and honey.
In addition to its exceptional drinks, The Berkshire Room also has a menu of small plates and snacks. From the charcuterie board to the truffle popcorn, the dishes are designed to complement the drinks. The lounge also offers a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and snacks.
Duke of Perth
2913 N Clark St Chicago IL 60657
Located in the Lakeview neighborhood, Duke of Perth is a Scottish pub that’s famous for its whiskey selection. The decor is cozy and rustic, with a fireplace and plenty of tartan accents.
When it comes to drinks, Duke of Perth has an impressive list of single malt scotches, as well as a selection of Irish and American whiskeys. The bar team is knowledgeable about the different varieties and can help you find the perfect one for your tastes.
In addition to whiskey, Duke of Perth also has a menu of pub food. From the fish and chips to the bangers and mash, the dishes are hearty and filling. The pub also offers live music on select nights.
The Franklin Room
675 N Franklin Street Chicago, IL 60654
Located in the River North neighborhood, The Franklin Room is a sophisticated cocktail lounge that’s perfect for a date night or a night out with friends. The decor is classic and elegant, with dark wood paneling and leather seating.
When it comes to drinks, The Franklin Room is known for its exceptional whiskey selection. The bar has more than 300 different varieties, as well as a menu of classic and creative cocktails. One standout cocktail is the “Franklin Sour,” made with rye, apricot, lemon, and egg white.
In addition to its exceptional drinks, The Franklin Room also has a menu of elevated American cuisine. From the crab cakes to the filet mignon, the dishes are designed to be shared. The lounge also offers a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and snacks.
The Monkey’s Paw
2524 N Southport Ave., Chicago IL
Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, The Monkey’s Paw is a cozy cocktail bar that’s perfect for a date night or a night out with friends. The decor is dark and moody, with vintage decor and plenty of candles.
When it comes to drinks, The Monkey’s Paw is known for its creative and unique cocktails. The bar team is skilled at creating drinks that are both delicious and visually impressive. One standout cocktail is the “Silk Road,” made with gin, green chartreuse, lime, and saffron.
In addition to its exceptional drinks, The Monkey’s Paw also has a menu of small plates and snacks. From the deviled eggs to the crispy pork belly, the dishes are designed to complement the drinks. The bar also offers a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and snacks.
Bub City
435 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60654
Located in the River North neighborhood, Bub City is a country-themed bar and restaurant that’s famous for its whiskey selection and live music. The decor is rustic, with plenty of wood accents and cowboy hats.
When it comes to drinks, Bub City has an impressive list of bourbons and whiskeys, as well as a selection of beer and cocktails. The bar team is knowledgeable about the different varieties and can help you find the perfect one for your tastes.
In addition to drinks, Bub City also has a menu of Southern-style barbecue and comfort food. From the pulled pork to the fried chicken, the dishes are hearty and flavorful. The restaurant also offers live music on select nights.
Punch Bowl Social Chicago
310 N. Green St, Chicago 60607
Located in the West Loop neighborhood, Punch Bowl Social Chicago is a sprawling entertainment complex that’s perfect for a night out with friends. The decor is retro and colorful, with plenty of vintage arcade games and bowling lanes.
When it comes to drinks, Punch Bowl Social Chicago has an extensive menu of cocktails, as well as a selection of beer and wine. The bar team is skilled at creating drinks that are both delicious and fun, with creative garnishes and playful presentations.
In addition to drinks, Punch Bowl Social Chicago also has a menu of elevated bar food. From the truffle fries to the lobster corn dogs, the dishes are designed to be shared. The complex also offers plenty of entertainment options, including karaoke, ping pong, and shuffleboard.
Whether you’re a Chicago local or visiting the city for the first time, we hope this guide has inspired you to explore some of the city’s best cocktail bars. From classic cocktails to inventive creations, Chicago’s bartenders are sure to impress. So grab a friend or two, and head out for a night of exceptional drinks and unforgettable experiences.
