River Shannon

I can't say anything about food as we only ordered drinks. You can't go to an Irish bar and not order a pint of Guinness. The place was very crowded yet I felt like I was at home. I liked its old-school interior. I got that the place is dog-friendly, I just did not get seeing a dog sitting on the actual table. Not my cup of tea. Overall, good note.

Wonderful local watering hole. Even if you've never been there before, the staff makes you feel like a regular. beautiful old school interior. dog friendly. great draft heights at a reasonable price for the neighborhood. open early if you want a quick nip before lunch.

I don't remember the last critical review I've written but this was egregious IMO so here it is. We stopped in on a Sunday evening a few weeks ago. Not at all crowded. Ordered 2-G&T's, 2-Vodka Sodas. I watched the young girl behind the bar pour what was not even 1.5 oz of booz into a plastic cup. I've been around long enough to recognize weak cocktails when I see and drink them. Price? $14 each. After taxes, fees, tip? $68.24. I was born and raised in Chicago area. We've all experienced gouging esp since 2020. This one surprised me more than most which motivated me to alert others. Be aware!

This is the first dog friendly bar I have ever been to! We loved it we were greeted by some sweet little fluffy dogs. We didn't actually drink any alcohol but I seen they had a personal favorite on tap. We were out enjoying the sites and stumbled across it and decided to stop. We had looked at the menue on line and decided we would try it out. This is also the first restaurant we have been to that you order your food on line and it was delivered from a separate restaurant. I'm sure it had to do with covid restrictions to some extent. But we had zero complaints the food was delicious and the atmosphere was fantastic!

One of the best local bars you can find in Lincoln Park. Bartender Juliette is the most personable bartender I have met in years. You can’t have a bad time here.

Popular for a reason, welcoming bartenders, cold beer, nice warm break from the frigid temperatures outside. Also recommend a good wing place in the area; will have to stop in again.

Popular neighborhood dive bar with cold drinks and a good time. Can get very busy on weekends but service is top notch! Pups allowed as well!!

Love this place, they do a cute dog competition every month. If they would upgrade their cork dart boards, I may never go to another bar ever again

A great neighborhood bar that is always fun! Doug Anderson behind the bar will take really good care of you. Has outdoor as well. Don't miss this treasure!

Very cool vibe (love the green walls and the cozy yet sophisticated furnishings), awesome bartenders and pretty good drinks. Plus the dog bowls and dog-friendly events are cool!

I was visiting family and wanted to find somewhere to go that I could take the pup with me -- and I didn't want to be forced to sit outside (you're only about 1/3 dog-friendly if you only allow dogs outside... cuz Chicago sit-outside season is about 1/3 of the year). Anyway, this came up in a search and was in the old neighborhood, so it seemed like it'd be a fun place to try. Turns out this is where my mother used to hang out in her 20s - love that the neighborhood bar is still going strong. And especially love that they let dogs come inside. We visited on a weekday afternoon when it wasn't super busy, so it was fun getting to talk to the bartender and discuss the neighborhood. Will definitely go back.

We decided to host a happy hour in the Lincoln Park neighborhood and chose River Shannon to host it! What a wonderful time we had! Sophia was so easy to schedule everything with, she even had some catering suggestions for us that made the rest of the planning even easier. The staff was so friendly and welcoming. We could not have selected a better spot. Highly recommend you reach out to them for your next event or stop in to enjoy their lovely patio this summer!

Total dive bar in the neighborhood. It's in a good area, but it's the definition of unspectacular. Beer selection is crap.

The solid Irish bar in the heart of Lincoln Park. Went by for a couple of drinks with some friends during the day. Crowd was awesome and super nice and the bartenders were very friendly. I saw the bloody Mary's that they were putting together and that's definitely going to be on my list of things to try next time! If you love dogs, this is also a great bar. They are extremely dog friendly and there's always little puppies running around (on leashes of course).

In town for the weekend and stopped by after the conservatory! Great vibe with fun tunes (shoutout touch tunes). The drinks were good and everyone was very nice. Loved that dogs were welcome

Adorable kitty-cornered bar off of Armitage and Hudson Ave in Lincoln Park! We went for a college alum event and tried the Allagash White -- a classic off brand blue moon. The servers were extremely accommodating and the vibes amazing. Great spot for a date night as the bar had a plethora of games to play and even an outdoor patio. Overall a delicious and delightful experience!

I really prefer this place to Halligan over on Orchard. This place takes cards and doesn't give you a hard time about paying for it. They were very nice and I love that it's dog friendly. And also I went and sat on the patio and they didn't give me a hard time. The only reason I'm not giving this five stars as they didn't have some beers in their taps, but it was also a Thursday, so maybe they just didn't get their shipments in for the week or something. I'll definitely be back.

Had a lovely time at this bar one weekday this summer. We were in town with our dogs and looking for dog friendly spots to hang out. River Shannon touts itself as *the* dog bar in the city so we decided to give it a try. I went to DePaul so I was very familiar with the area, but had somehow never been here. We made our way over near opening and were the only ones there for the first couple of hours. The bartender did a great job chatting with us, and we had fun swapping bar and restaurant recommendations. Our dogs mostly chilled out and occasionally greeted other guests who entered with their pups. Drinks were reasonably priced and the space is a very classic Chicago bar--lots of wood paneling and history. Would definitely recommend if you're looking for a laid back space, and especially if you like dogs.

Classic Irish pub, but dog friendly so expect to see a lot of furry friends potentially. All the staples of a pub are there in the look and decor. Several TVs to watch multiple sports games. Pretty decent craft beer selection. A tad pricey, but also it's Lincoln Park. Credit card only just FYI. It's actually a good meetup place if you're going to see a concert at Park West (which is what I did) as there's not a whole lot else at that intersection, and you can't wait at the venue really without a ticket. If I lived in the neighborhood I'm sure I'd go more often, has a good vibe, and a good crowd for a Wednesday night.

The bartender Heather is an absolute gem and embodies the essence of hospitality with a warm smile and a genuine interest in patrons' stories. Friendly neighborhood bar. Can't go wrong stopping in for a beer, throwing some darts and saying hi to anyone working. Oh, don't sleep on the Pizza!!!

Great bar and very well managed. They always have a good vibe, I've never had a bad time here! Food is tasty and staff is consistently lovely despite being swamped!

Drinks were great. Loved the staff and atmosphere and being able to have the dogs with me made it perfect. We will go again. My friend didn't believe that the dogs could go - he was wrong.

UNBELIEVABLE SERVICE. I'm overwhelmed. The beautiful bartender and patrons so supportive and kind. I.csnt remember a time I've been to a better bar since I've been back east however the Midwest vibe is shining through. I came here on a bad day greeted with supportive kindness and great service - what's coming here on w good day look like? Love it.

Went here with a friend of mine for the first time ever on a Sunday night (12/4) before the Countess LuAnn A Very Countess Christmas cabaret show at the Park West! We had a great time here and even returned after the show! Fun, welcoming and cozy neighborhood bar! Loved / was thoroughly entertained by all the friendly customers who brought their doggies with them inside this dog-friendly bar! Service here was friendly and efficient too! We'd definitely come back!!

This is such a fun place to go with friends, the staff is so friendly specifically jake and dot! The touch tunes and games to play in the back are great and fun to bring friend from out of town to see a classic chicago bar. They have good vibe ma and good beer and even serve Kim Crawford wine which is up my ally hah. It's just a fun classic bar to hang at! Highly recommend for a good time.

River Shannon is a wonderful Irish pub in Lincoln Park. We had a large group / private event there, and the staff is great to work with. We had a few of teh River Shannon pizzas, and we utilized the catering that River Shannon works with. Food, service, drink was all excellent. We'd go back again!

An old friend, the River Shannon. She hasn't changed much, which is wonderful. A good bar keeps to the basics- good music, good drinks, good company.

Don't expect these women to take your drink order if there's a thirsty man around, no matter how much longer you've been waiting. And for the love of god don't remind them of your existence after waiting 10+ minutes watching everyone around you show up and get served immediately. Not impressed, not coming back. $$$

Great local place, and dog friendly. Extremely people friendly too! Has a great old style pub feel to it. I visited River Shannon for my first time with my daughter, and her pup, as they recently moved to this area. The atmosphere is casual and friendly. There was lively music playing and the smell of fresh popcorn in the air. (The popcorn is also free). Giant Jenga is available for play. There seemed to be a good mix of regulars here seated at the bar and tables. I enjoyed a nice cold Green Line at the bar. The bartender served us right away and was very friendly. If you're bringing your well-behaved dog in here, you'll appreciate the water bowl and treats at the door. I'll be back real soon, I'm sure.

Cool bar, dog friendly. (Sociable Doorman with glasses is what keeps me coming back!)

Traveled here from PA just for the Day to pick up new puppy. Great service , great atmosphere only wish they served a selection of food.

S/O Dot & Heather best vibe ever service was great & the music was al time ... walqd in as Hurricane played

The best in Chicago, dog friendly and they have the most fun staff by a mile and a half

Heather is the best bartender here. 5 stars I'd come back here every weekend!! Great food, great company, the best bar in. Chicago

Is it really a Chicago night out if it doesn't end at an irish bar!? 5 stars for this quaint little place. All the right vibes and great drinks.

I feel at home! Heather has been an excellent bartender! Gave great advice for what beers to get! Appreciate that! Wouldn't spend my 30th birthday anywhere else! Yea yea

River Shannon is the best neighborhood bar. I have never felt more comfortable in a place than here. Especially Tony and Heather they make it feel like it's genuinely comfortable and happy. Usually I come here on Sundays for mimosas and now they have orange juice -- thanks to heather (the old management did not order it). Everyone is so kind and sweet and fun and I have met a lot of friends here.

Love it here! Elizabeth is great, as are the rest of the staff. Have been coming here for years and will continue to do so!

This is a cool place. My spouse and I wanted to catch the second 1/2 of the soccer game. Found this place online and stopped in. The two guys working were helpful, cool, and personable. We ordered food (an outside company) and had a couple beers. This place has really cool architecture, allows dogs, and has a casual vibe. It also has COVID protections in place. There was a prior review that makes no sense. There is a giant piece of plastic suspended from the ceiling at the bar to separate guests and staff. Staff wore masks. No idea what that other reviewer was talking. Great local, cool, casual, clean place. Also, dog friendly.

Chance is the absolute best bartender. He always takes care of me with the most delicious drinks. I love that this bar is dog friendly I would highly recommend.

Can't believe how unprofessional their bartenders are. They played heavy rock to clear the bar, then blamed it on other people's touch tunes choices...by the way there is no touch tunes at this bar. The owner should think about how much money they're losing with the riffraff behind the bar. At least 10 of the bartender's friends stayed after we were kicked out, likely drinking for free. You'll be closed soon owner with those horrific bartenders, and we won't ever be back. Ever.

I've never felt more uncomfortable at a bar. The staff was incredibly rude and I felt unsafe. Would highly recommend staying away from this bar. If the bartender Tony hears a Britney Spears song he will threaten you - super weird, he clearly has some unresolved issues.

Great place for team sponsorship! Awesome jersey's and great pitcher deals. Bartenders are extremely helpful and have a local flair.

HOMOPHOBIA ALERT!!!! we brought a group of 15 people and played a britney spears song on the touch tunes and were immediately shut down. the bartender was very rude about it and turned off/ blocked the touch tunes completely so that no more music could be played. he was actually very upset about it in kind of a strange/scary way. All of us thought this was psychotic behavior for a bartender so we left because we felt very uncomfortable. this bartender (tony) was very aggressive and made us feel unsafe and unwelcome. our friends who live in the area brought us to this bar because they love it and were excited to take us. my how they were embarrassed. and rightfully so. none of us will ever go back to this establishment.

Our bartender Tony was AMAZING!! Super friendly, knowledgeable, and great taste in music! He also accommodated our dog's needs :D

Loved River Shannon and the amazing staff!!! Heather made all the difference, truly a special place in Old Town. The late night pizza was amazing, and great music!!

River Shannon is a great neighborhood bar. The bartenders are all very friendly, and remember you (and your order - think of "Cheers")! The dog-friendly nature of this bar makes for an incredible social hangout. Several beers on tap with many more bottles and cans. Dog treats and water available for your four legged friends. The overall vibe is very laid back and easy. Go check it out. You won't be disappointed!!

Love this place! Right down the block and a great neighborhood hangout. Great service, comfy environment, and fantastic service! If you're a fun person, you should check out this fun place!

Honestly your typical neighborhood pub. Nothing spectacular but a down to earth type bar. Fairly narrow when you walk in then opens up in the back. I have never eaten here but of course they have all the adult beverages you could ask for. Crowd is always interesting, I cannot put my finger on it. Let's say an eclectic mix. Right on Lincoln and Armitage just a little west on Armitage from the intersection, flags out front can't be missed. I live very close by and thankfully have not heard boisterous patrons leaving.

My husband and I were looking for an Irish pub to grab a Guinness on Monday, June13. We found River Shannon, Andrew was the bartender. He was very nice and engaging. We told him we were going to the Cubs game that night, he gave us the name of his friend who worked at Cubby Bear. Great pub!!

Dogs, free popcorn, and games?? What more could you ask for at a bar! I discovered this place a few weeks ago and have brought friends back because I had such a good time. Bonus is a jukebox to request your favorite songs for $1 each. Friendly bartenders too!

Been going to River Shannon for a couple years now. Always a good time with friendly staff! Also dogs are allowed so bring your buddy!

One of the best bars on the north side. Staff is awesome and always engaging the customers. Everyone feels like family here. (Doesn't hurt that the pours are strong too!) must visit.

Truly one of the finer establishments in the Chicagoland area. The staff is the best, the beer is always cold, the dogs are so cute and the patrons are Chicagos finest.

The best service and most welcoming staff (extra plus for being dog friendly)!! Went in for a Sunday Funday and will absolutely be coming back.

The service was great and very friendly! Great place to relax and have a nice afternoon with friends.

AWESOME bar. Dog friendly, fun bartenders, and great beer. One of my favs in the city. And you get pretzels!!! Always have a good time here. 10/10 recommend

Pre-pandemic, River Shannon was warm and welcoming. Now? It's anything but. My husband and I were both fully vaccinated in February but have been nervous to go out after over a year of staying home. It was finally warm enough today and we decided to walk our dog to River Shannon to enjoy a drink or two. First, they have 5-6 tables on their outdoor patio but they are so close together that only 1-2 tables can be used at any given time. I guess you might get lucky if you get there right when they open? However, we didn't mind drinking inside so in we went. As soon as we stepped foot inside, everyone (four customers and a bartender leaning forward aggressively against the bar) immediately turned to us and just stared. No one (not even staff) said a word. There were no specials posted and we had no idea of what was available or pricing. Absolutely no advertisements. I expected the bartender to ask us about ourselves and tell us what he had to offer but, after a minute of stares and silence, I became so uncomfortable and had to exit the bar. I usually order mixed drinks when I go out but I'm not good at just telling the bartender what I want. It would have been nice to have some options to choose from. My anxiety got the best of me and we ended up just going home. I'm not sure what happened to this place. I understand if they don't want to utilize menus anymore but adapt to QR codes like every other restaurant and bar in the city. Or at least say hello and tell me what you offer so I'm not made to feel like an idiot. As our first adventure out in a bit, we would have gladly spent some time there and ordered multiple drinks. Unfortunately, the awkward vibe did not allow this to happen. I guess we'll be sticking to the dog-friendly breweries!