Best Bars in Chicago (2025)

Julia Momose’s serene Japanese dining bar treats cocktails and food with equal reverence, from shochu and sake pairings to her pioneering spiritfree options. Recognized as No. 10 on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 and spotlighted by Eater Chicago and the Michelin Guide.

Alinea Group’s cocktail playground rewrites expectations with theatrical service, custom glassware, and multi-course drink tastings. Frequently praised by national critics and local guides for innovation; the sibling speakeasy The Office downstairs rewards classic spirits obsessives.

This beloved “five‑star dive” balances $10 classics with legit cocktail craft, Angostura on tap, and the cult‑favorite Wondermint Malted. Ranked No. 25 on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 and warmly reviewed by The Infatuation and local press after its triumphant return.

A Black‑ and women‑owned Andersonville favorite known for welcoming hospitality, polished classics, and community events. A James Beard Awards Outstanding Bar Program nominee and frequently recommended by Time Out Chicago and other local critics.

Chicago’s storied jazz room since 1907 still pours stiff classics under its art‑deco glow. Live music seven nights a week and a cash‑only ethos keep it authentic; celebrated by local writers and national publications for preserving Uptown’s cultural soul.

A Logan Square mainstay revered for amaro‑driven menus, vintage spirits, and a bartending team that treats classics with care. Frequently featured by Condé Nast Traveler and Eater Chicago; open late with a neighborhood feel and serious technique.

Day‑to‑night energy, vinyl‑driven sound, and cocktails celebrating Latin American spirits—think rum, cachaça, mezcal, and aguardiente. A consistent pick in Time Out Chicago’s bar guides and a local go‑to for lively, tropical‑leaning drinks.

Bridgeport’s quintessential community bar and bottle shop from the Marszewski family, with Marz Community Brewing ties and next‑door bites from Kimski. Celebrated by Condé Nast Traveler and the Chicago Reader for its neighborhood roots and eclectic beer list.

Hidden behind Moreno’s Liquors in Little Village, this speakeasy‑style bar honors Latinx Chicago with agave‑forward cocktails and DJ nights. Named Best Bar by Time Out Chicago’s city awards and praised by Thrillist for its neighborhood impact.

Part cocktail bar, part performance venue, Lemon centers inclusive hospitality and perfectly tuned classics. Crowned Campari One To Watch by North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 and noted by culture writers for its music‑first programming and neighborhood feel.

A polished, 1960s Paris–inspired lounge by local veterans, with a standout martini program and refined snacks. New to North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 at No. 39 and profiled by Eater Chicago for elevating Fulton Market’s cocktail scene.

An intimate Logan Square den where rotating, story‑driven menus celebrate Chicago history—from the World’s Fair to Midwest birdlife. Ranked No. 38 on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 and winner of 2024’s Best Cocktail Menu award from the same group.