Rosa's Lounge

Always great, the place is a well deserved institution. We're semi regular but had one of the best nights ever last Friday. Highly recommended!

If you want to hear some really great Blues from alot of our local Blues artist this is the place to be. Love Rosa's and I've been on both ends, as a patron & a performer. You can have a good time here.

I hesitate to share about Rosa’s Lounge because it’s the real deal. If you want to listen to authentic Chicago blues in a spot that only the locals know about, then Rosa’s is the place. Tickets are required but can be purchased at the door. Shared tables, but it’s so nice to sit and talk with other folks who love the blues.

Love the vibe here. This is my favorite blues venue. Have been to most venues in Chicago, love them all but rosa's is community. Like a vibrant,fun,family/community atmosphere that is contagious. You can become addicted.

Roses lounge Tony the son of mama rose, is an outstanding awesome amazing. Words cannot describe. Angel and Jennifer. And Jennifer's daughter. Mark. Just a few names of the staff bartenders and host. Great atmosphere. Playing the Blues is their expertise. They don't play about it. Here, come once you are in love ❤️ you won't stop coming. Entertainment is a step above the rest. And you can quote me ps, when you come ask a for Forrest

Had loads of fun. Got to listen to hall of fame member Bob Stronger. Great seats. No where in the place were bad seats

Such a chill place, super relaxed—we felt very welcomed and comfortable. Friendly staff and relaxed people, not overcrowded. It's not luxurious, and that's a compliment, as it's made for people to come and just enjoy the music. This was important to us as we are new to the USA and don't know the specifics and culture. We felt great there. The music was also excellent, although it was sometimes clearly too loud, which reduced the enjoyability of the music, which it deserved. No food, but you can bring your own or order pizza. The selection of drinks is good and reasonably priced. We enjoyed it and would come again.

As a Chicagoan who no longer (and hasn't for a long time) lives in Chicago, but now comes in town multiple times a year. I almost always stop by Rosa's Lounge to connect with the city on a level that I couldn't when I was younger and had no money 🙃. I like how everyone is always nice to me and I like that this is truly a neighborhood location so I can get out from under the Hancock Center. I'll be in town tomorrow and plan on going to the Saturday 11pm show, but I'm not 100% sure yet... so I haven't made reservations... Save a table for me just in case.

Awesome awesome awesome. First and foremost, we went here because we wanted to take our son to see blues in Chicago and many of the establishments are bars with strict rules against minors. Here you could sign a waiver. So if you're visiting the city and looking for Chicago Blues with a teenager, this is the spot. They have two shows typically a 9 and an 11. I recommend the earlier one. Get there early to get a good seat. The place is small and narrow. Staff is great, drinks are cheap, bathrooms are clean, crowd is friendly, and the Blues hits your bones.

Super fun spot with live music. We caught their last show of the night and we were able to grab seats. People were vibing and dancing and everyone was having a great time.

Small more intimate place. If you drive past real fast you'd miss it. Staff was really nice and the entertainment (Blues) was great. They had 2 restrooms so people were waiting in line at times. The had high tables and low ones so it is accommodating. I didn't eat, not sure if they had food but the drinks were good and reasonably priced.

My wife and I decided to come to Rosa's Lounge this past October for my birthday. Any gift moving forward will be hard to top because we had a great time. Melvin Taylor & The Slack Band was on that night and absolutely killed it - I've been to too many concerts to count and it's easily the best show I've attended. We sat at the bar and drinks were great but the bartenders were beyond friendly so it was a great place to hunker down. I need to get back to Rosa's asap!

This was such a fun blues bar - the music was fantastic and even though I went in not knowing anything about the band going on or anything about blues music in general, I am SO glad that I did. There are no frills - the bar isn't the most glamorous or updated, but it doesn't need to be, because the music is fantastic and the bartenders are speedy and efficient so you can get back to enjoying the music. There is not food here, but you can bring your own food in according to the website, but I didn't see anyone do that. One tip: don't come here for fancy drinks that involve 15 steps to make. Keep your drink order simple - the bar can make complex drinks, but they're really set up to make simple drinks quickly so you can focus on the music. We arrived early after prepurchasing our tickets online and I'm glad we did - seats fill up quickly and if you arrive late, even if you purchased a seat, they can't guarantee you'll have a seat once the show. I can't wait to go back - this place was so fun for a date night but it would also be a fun night out with friends.

The quintessential Chicago blues club. Small, intimate, decent beer/booze list. Music=A+. Be warned- If you have reservations and are guaranteed a seat, get there early because your seat may be a folding chair in the back. That's really my only criticism. The "seating" disclaimer should be a bit more transparent.

Great place to watch live music!! From Jennifer at the door to the bartenders and the servers this place is friendly and fun! We were there to see the Ivy Ford Band and had a great time. Rosa's has a high quality sound system and good seating. There really are no bad seats in this place! We'll definitely be back!

Now this is what aim talkin' about! Ol' fashion blues! This gritty but clean bar is awesome. Just oozes the vibe. Too many of these establishments have gone away over the years. Get out here and support your local blues bars! Tonight, 2 acts play. You can pay for guaranteed seating or just stand up and watch. Acts are reasonable too' 15 bucks or so per person. No food here... but a nicely stocked bar! The workers know the music too. I hear them talking about ol' bkues acts. The patrons remanences about old blues ghosts of the past sharing stories of different blues clubs we have all visited. It's worth the trek down to the city! If you are in Chicago and love live music (even if it isn't the blues!), check Rosa's out!! I guarantee they will captivate you with their melodic guitars and howling voices.

Had a great night with some friends to hear the live music. There was $25 cover the drinks were cheap. There's no assigned seating so if you're trying to hear music get there early to secure a nice spot. The place isn't that big so you could see hear and dance if you wanted to. It's a mixed crowd from young to old all ethnicities. They don't serve food but we door dashed some food in. Good times and a good night!

The blues is top notch and the service matches it. No better place to see authentic Chicago Blues. Lots of parking in the area as well. This is our regular blues spot for sure.

I must say first the bartender was one of the best I have ever seen/met. He was so personable, friendly without losing contact with all the customers needs. I would employ him in a heartbeat. He made a good drink and seems to clean in his free moments. In fact, I stopped to meet Anthony, the owner, and his wife, primarily to share my compliment about him. It was their anniversary that night. IT was also the woman at the door's birthday. I think her name is Jennifer? The singer "Kitten" was awesome and WOW could she play guitar. My only issue was that it was about a 45 minute ride from downtown by car. As a tourist, it was not a great use of time. I would go back though, if I am there longer. By the way, there are 2 restaurants close by one is trendy, light and all the tables are close. We didn't stay, but they were very understanding. We went to a great alternative called Scofflaw, which I will review. In addition, I walked in the neighborhood and felt very safe, after some people advised me not to. Maybe just because I am a gray.

Rosa's is a terrific club although not close to downtown, where we were staying as tourists. However, it was worth the ride. Small, intimate, with friendly and helpful staff. It was a slow night (a Thursday), so I suspect it would be really fun if it were a rockin' night. However, my husband and I had a great time listening to the band and just enjoying Chicago blues. Would love to go back when Melvin Taylor is playing!

I gotta say, I was skeptical. I didn't think this place was going to be as good as the reviews said - but it was. The pictures make it look a little more rundown, but it's nice she clean. The area is a safe part of town. Note: THEY DO NOT SERVE DINNER - but they appear to allow guests to bring/order food deliveries, which works all the same. Plus there's no shortage of restaurants in the area. The bartenders make very good drinks. As a drinker, my old fashion was perfect. My date and I were well greeted. When they found out it was our first time Jennifer was very hospitable. The advertised start time was 8:30p. The show started right around 9 pm. So not bad (for musician time. Lol!) The style is a rock, blues, jazz fusion, so it's for everyone. What I like is that they book the musical guest for the whole night AND they more than encourage dancing in the small space in front of the stage. And, boy do people dance! Haha! Whether you've been married for 20 years or on a first date (like I was), it's a good time. I will be back! TIP: Make sure you have your ID and proof of vaccination.

Great place to go for the best blues the audience is great the owner Mr. Tony is always there to greet you we have an amazing bartender her name is Angel she makes the best margaritas in town we love going there for a Friday night date got a try it you'll love it

Beware READ THE FINE PRINT Paid for 2 "Guaranteed Seats" When we got there they told us you didn't get here by 9:00 so you have no seats. We were we could stand by the toilet.

Chicago isn't my home state, but these are one of those bars that give you a home town feeling. My friend and I was recommended this location to experience a local R&B band. When we arrived we were required to have a vaccination verification, which is understandable, but be aware of that during the time of this post. The staff was very friendly and was able to answer all my questions. While we waited for the band to get on stage, we were trying were able to order some food to the bar - while this option is a great option for the bar to have, the price of the food was higher than usual as you have to factor in delivery to the bar. The band finally arrived and they were excellent, but we were slightly disappointed that it was actually a blues/rock band and we were expecting R&B. The overall experience was great checking out a local venue. Another note, is you need to make sure you get to the venue early - When we got up to get some drinks from the bar another group took our spot as they are not assigned. It is first come first served and make sure only one person get the drinks if you are in a group of 2 lol.

Incredible local blues bar. The music will get into your BONES it's so good. Really friendly staff and just a great "Sweet home chicago" feel. I'll be back!!

Best blues club in Chicago, hands down. The acts are consistently excellent. I have never had anything less than a fabulous time here. You won't be disappointed!

The staff, service, and music are great. It's a small venue. Even if it's a sold-out event, it's still comfortable and not overcrowded. The dance Floor is perfect. Bathrooms are single seats so it doesn't matter which one you go in.

Believe it or not, this was my first visit to Rosa's. But it won't be the last, that's for sure. Rosa's is the quintessential Chicago blues club. This type of club is what I picture when I think Chicago blues. The staff is super friendly, and the space is dark and cozy. The club is long and narrow, there's not a lot of tables from front to back, but to me, it's a perfect size. The club holds around 50 people, sitting and standing. The music sounds incredible, and you're close to the small stage, even if you're in the back. Your line of sight is pretty good, even in the very back of the club. You pay at the front door as you come, in, and the host will show you to an open table. On this Friday night, the place was full, and people were dancing on the dance floor and at their tables. The bar is full service with a couple of bartenders, and they will bring drinks to your table. The cocktails are excellent and robust. I believe the show starts at 9 pm and the band plays three or four sets. We arrived around 11-11:30 pm and the band was in mid-set. At the end of the set, they are sitting at the bar or walking around talking with everyone. John Primer & The Real Deal Blues Band was playing this night, and they were awesome! My understanding is this level of talent is here every night. And it's been my experience at similar Chicago blues clubs around the city. As we approached the end of the last set and closing time, the mood was still full-on party mood!!

Loved being back in the city and listening to great live music! Highly recommend this place!

This place was everything I was looking for with a friendly staff, strong drinks, fast delivery, filling and tasty food. Not to forget great music.

Good music and the drinks aren't over priced. They always have great entertainment. The young lady who works the door is especially nice and the Owner Tony makes you feel welcome. Great place to listen to good music and vibe.

I attended the second night of Rosa's reopening during the Covid crisis. Not only was it great to be back, but I believe they are handling everything the right way. They have reduced the number of tables in the space, reservations are required so attendance is limited, and it is obvious they clean and sanitize before, during, and after the shows. Masks are required, and I saw everyone comply. At no point during the evening was I concerned about my safety or whether or not others around me were following safety protocols. It's a slow start back to "normal," but it's a start! If you want to attend but are wondering if the club is operating safely, I believe, based on what I experienced, that it is.

AMAZING!!! If you LOVE jazz/blues music or small cozy hip/cute bars then THIS IS A MUST VISIT! The bar was decorated with a lot of funky artwork and I LOVED the fairy lights light pipe that was behind the bar! SO PRETTY! We went on a Friday night (purchased Guaranteed Seating tickets online with the 'claim your seat' hours between 8-9. REMEMBER TO PRINT YOUR TICKET!) when Vance Kelly and Backstreet Blues Band we're performing. WHERE DO I START? Vance is just HILARIOUS!!! And his voice and guitar playing are like out of this world!!!! The guy on the saxophone in the band was also amazing!!! What's so nice about these small bars is that the artists come down from the stage and are performing so close to you!!! LOVED THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE! We were just so lucky to catch Vance Kelly - as we were just in town for the weekend and this was our first time hearing of him. The drinks were decent - but the best part is definitely the show!!! OMG MY EARS!!! Anyhow I'd say it's definitely a great experience if you're in town and planning to be in the area!

Came here to hear a friend play. It is pretty divey but I guess iconic for up and coming blues artists. Service was super friendly and really made us feel welcome. Drink prices are really reasonable. The stage area is fairly small and not many tables up front. I think the sound is good throughout but don't count on being able to sit close to the action. The venue is pretty long and narrow so you may be a decent distance from the stage.

Best blues I have ever had. A unforgettable night. The food nearby is nice to explore. It worth a try!

Loved this little place it got packed in there, the bar tenders were great and happy,all the customers there were all nice ..great atmosphere..will for sure go back.

We went to Rosa's on a Wednesday night. Free tickets for an amazing show. The talent was insane. Not only that, but the bartender went above and beyond for our three person group. I was so happy to see covid rules enforced. They truly want to keep this amazing place open and limit the spread. I will definitely be recommending Rosa's to everyone I know. They are doing an amazing job!

Rosa's is the best place in the Chicago to listen great blues! The venues is great the bartenders are on point! No food!! Only good drinks and great blues! There is a fee to enter.... but is well worth it! People from all over the world have been here to listen great Chicago blues. Make sure you tip the staff and musicians Because they will make sure you have a great time!

Great Chicago Blues Venue 35 years strong. Very friendly staff and lots of locals and local Blues Talent. Always surprise guests also very casual down home kind of place.

I came here Friday night with my husband to see Sugar Blue. The door guy was so welcoming and found us a spot to sit at the bar. The two bartenders were great - nice girls. The show was awesome. Drink prices were decent $23 for a few mixed drinks. I will definitely return for more ..... Thank you guys!

First timer at Rosa's this past weekend for a late night Vance Kelly Show. We had tickets and I arrived solo to meet my group. There seemed to be one table left with a reserved sign on it. As Tony (the owner) checked me in, he noticed I was the first of my group and asked me if I'd need a table and I said yes! He was very nice about it. It was difficult a little at first to get a drink because I think a lot of people had arrived and it was a rush to get a drink. They have 2 bartenders (no table service) who work really hard! The place was crowded and had great vibes. I went to specifically meet some family, a few in from out of town and Vance Kelly fans. We had a great time. Great music, company, and drinks. When I left it was pretty late, about 3am, and I was leaving solo, waiting for an Uber. Tony had the door locked, walked me out and chatted with me until my uber came. Very friendly guy and I will be back for some great music!

Ventured here this past Thursday evening to enjoy some good Blues! This place did not disappoint at all! I loved the interior as they had pics and artwork of legendary artists and historic figures on the walls. They have a pretty cool bar here as well. Drinks were not very expensive, but I did run up a $60 tab (was joined by 4 other peeps!) Everyone who works here are very nice and welcoming. The music was great! I loved all the tunes the three man band played. The only thing that bothered me was that some dance group showed up and just took away from the music. At first they came in with salsa inspired dancing. I think at some point someone told them salsa and blues don't really mix. I don't think they show up all the time, at least I hope not Sitting there reminded me of that scene from "Adventures in Babysitting" when the guy kept telling people no one could leave without singing the blues. I was hoping that would happen, but it did not. I guess I watch too many movies! Recommend this place to anyone who loves listening to good Blues!

If Blues music is the granddaddy of American music- then Rosa's is the house that it lives in! This is Chicago blues- far away from the tourist traps that everyone knows and filled with people who just love the blues. I think I could have sat there forever. On the night I was there- Melvin Taylor was playing. Cover was $15 but since he always sells out and you don't want to miss out- go to Rosa's website and pay online for your tickets and your name will be waiting at the door. The seats are first come first served so while the band starts at 10- you'll want to get there earlier to snag a seat. Rosa's is small and simple and has been open for blues enthusiasts sine 1984. Push past the battered front door and you'll find yourself in a long room with the band at one end- the bar along the left and scattered tables and chairs throughout. Upfront there is a small dance area where people dance together or even alone lost in the music. Beers are cheap ($3) and Margaret, the bartender does a great job of keeping the cold ones coming no matter how packed the place gets. And Tony, the bouncer, keeps his eyes peeled to make sure that everyone is having a good, safe time. He even gave me a personal escort to my car at the end of the night - which was unexpected but appreciated. Street parking is plentiful or if you need a cab- Tony will call one for you. Loved the music, the people- a perfect night out. And all the way home, my foot was tapping out the beat of the music that had filled my senses just minutes before.

Probably the nicest venue for a blues bar that I have been to. Does an impressive job of not being too full of itself, which I find to be a common issue in many venues; is casual and focuses on the bar, which has a decent selection of liquor, and the music itself. Bartenders are really good with the drinks too and you can tell they have been in the bartending business for a long time. Music itself was good, not amazing, but they also allow you to bring in food from some local places when here...Which is good as they don't have a traditional kitchen (supposedly they may serve complimentary Italian food here sometimes?).

Roses lounge is THE home of Chicago blues! If you're looking for an authentic, off the beaten track blues experience in a city where "blues club" has often become synonymous with "tourist trap," Rosa's is somewhere you simply must go! It will restore your faith in the blues scene in Chicago. The interior is as dark, slightly grungy, and eclectic as you could hope. The stage is small and the space is intimate. Often times, you'll rub shoulders or brush elbows with the musicians at the bar. Speaking of the bar, the drink selection is simple but sufficient and relatively inexpensive. Whether you show up on a Monday night or a Saturday, Rosa's will give you a warm welcome and the music will not disappoint! You owe it to yourself to go check this place out!

Wow, this venue is amazing! So much smaller than other Chi blues places that I've been, but far better. I was seated right up front and they have a blasting sound system. Melvin Taylor has been on my list for some time and I was blown away by his live performance. Amazing guitar play and I liked that he mixed up his own tunes along with some great covers. Wish I could have lasted til 3am!

Very authentic place. They aren't trying to do anything they can't. It's a divey, casual bar that puts the live music first. It's pretty loud and the people can be a bit rowdy. I like that it's off the beaten path from the hipster trendy Logan Square joints.

What couldn't you ask for a more perfect blues night in Chicago? A shady bar, good beers, an enthusiastic crowd and great artists who perform with their heart and soul! If you want to experience a great night of blues in Chicago, you want to head this way. Corey Dennison performed on Friday night and the crowd + personnel had an amazing evening. We came in around 20:45 which gave us enough time to find a great spot with good views. Most folk seemed to be regulars which only attributed to the entire experience. The place is quite dark which sets the mood perfectly. We will definitely come back here for some more blues!

What you would expect from an old school Chicago blues bar. Solid local talent with a couple regular acts and this kid Brian Lupo. You would never know it by looking at him but damn does he have soul. Also they have the coldest bottles ever. I swear I nursed my last beer for 30 minutes and it still made my lips go numb. Money spot.

Nice dive bar in the heart of Chicago. Ventured out here away from the downtown area. Live music and cheap beer makes for a nice time.

I moved in the area and saw this place on Yelp. This place is just amazing. What a little gem in outskirts of Logan Square. The music is on point and the place has great vibes. It's BYOF and you are able to have things delivered. A+ for its atmosphere. Very intimate and great for a date night or with a group of friends.

Nice atmosphere good music, very cool and interesting interior decor, definitely coming back when I go visit Chicago again

I've been to Blue Chicago. I've been to Kingston Mines. I've been to Buddy Guys. They are all great venues and offer a different blues experience. But after visiting Rosa's last night with my wife Jessica I have to say that Rosa's takes the cake. Let's start with the people who run the place. Within twenty minutes of getting there around 10:30 we were outside smoking and began chatting up Tony - Rosas' son - and he quite simply could not have been nicer or more welcoming. An Italian by birth, he came to Chicago in the 1980's and is not only an accomplished player but a font of knowledge. The bartenders are amazing as well. Jessica spent several ten minute or so periods talking with them as they recommended tasty drinks and generally entertained her as I was fixated on the music. Which brings me to the star of the night: Lil' Ed and the Blues Imperials. There's no doubt these guys are the real deal. If high energy West Side Blues is your thing then Lil' Ed will fill your cup. And what is perhaps even more impressive than his playing (which I expected to be good) is the fact that during intermissions he's walking around the club, signing CD's, having a smoke outside with the patrons, cracking jokes, posing for pictures and just generally being an ambassador of his band, his music and this club. As Jess put it: "he made me feel like I was a part of it all." I can't put it better than that. This place is a must visit for locals and tourists alike.

Great Blues Joint that gets some amazing artists on a regular basis! I hadn't been in many years so I was expecting that it had changed quite a bit.. It didn't thank God. Hole in the wall style with a great stage in the back, amazing sound, bar and cocktail tables. They put the cover charge on the chalkboard where you walk in and it's usually very reasonable/ beer & drink prices also very fair! The good thing is it never seems to be totally crowded prob because it's kinda off the beaten path in what once was a bad neighborhood. My recommendation would be dinner at Osteria Langhe/ Live Blues at Rosa's/ Nightcap at Scofflaw! I'm Fuckin' ParTyiN'

I've found my neighborhood go-to. Worth coming back to! Reasonable cover & drink prices. The band hit the spot! #ChicagoBlues

First timer and won't be the last. Big James and The Chicago Playboys killed it. Nice throw back lounge with some good old blues. Bartenders are Super! And they can dance. Drinks spot on for decent price. And no DAMN auto pour... nuff said

Rosa's Lounge is the absolute genuine artifact real deal Chicago blues bar, one of few left not only in Chicago but in the world. If you like Blues it is a must. Out-of-the-way location but as soon as you enter you will smile and say yes this is it the holy Grail I get it. For the ridiculously modest sum of 10 or 15 bucks depending who's playing, you gain entry to a shrine for blues enthusiast. Walk in any night and you can see the likes of Lil Ed & The Blues Imperials, Lurrie Bell (son of the great harmonica player may he rest in peace Carey Bell), or any number of local Bluesmen who have been around for decades and are authentic and just flat-out great singers and players. Drinks are fine and the food is edible. The owner is usually at the door and he is a wealth of information just ask him anything about Blues performers and he will have plenty of info. It is definitely a come one come all they are happy to see you. Dancing is encouraged and all I can say is if you like Blues even a little bit it is worth the track admittedly in an out-of-the-way place where are there where there are few other places to go so just check the schedule to make sure they are open that night as sometimes it is closed for a private party. Rosa's is one of the things that make Chicago a great tourist spot but this is most assuredly not a tourist place. Go while you can and it is still open you will never forget your experience at Rosa's.