The 25 Best Bars In Chicago

"Even though the hype behind The Violet Hour (and the backlash over its strict rules about what you can wear and what drinks you can order) isn’t as strong as it once was, the drinks here are still really damn good. Good enough that you should still seek out the entrance hidden behind an ever-changing mural in Wicker Park. From the way they seat you like you’re at a restaurant to the upscale bar snacks—expect foie gras and tartare—the experience here is all about curation, and they’ve created the right setting to enjoy some of the best seasonal cocktails you’ve ever had. It’s not an everyday situation, but it’s a great spot for the right occasion." - josh barnett, sam faye, john ringor