The Closet

"Just a block off the main Halsted bar area, The Closet has a dive bar feel and is one of my favorite places to meet other people in the community, without the pressures of trying to look hot while dancing and yelling over other drunk gays wearing speedos. If you accidentally knock over a pitcher here because of your clumsy noodle arms, the bartenders are really nice about it and so helpful—not that this has happened to me, of course. And while most bars in the area are geared towards gay men, The Closet makes sure it’s open for all queer people—including a clumsy lesbian like me." - abby keller

The Closet - Review - Lakeview - Chicago - The Infatuation

"Just a block off the main Halsted bar area, The Closet has a dive bar feel and is one of my favorite places to meet other people in the community, without the pressures of trying to look hot while dancing and yelling over other drunk gays wearing speedos. If you accidentally knock over a pitcher here because of your clumsy noodle arms, the bartenders are really nice about it and so helpful - not that this has happened to me, of course. And while most bars in the area are geared towards gay men, The Closet makes sure it’s open for all queer people - including a clumsy lesbian like myself." - Abby Keller

Making Room at Bars and Clubs for Trans and Nonbinary Chicagoans - Eater Chicago

R MH

Google

The bouncer and staff here physically beat and knocked a guy unconscious, causing sever injuries and potential brain damage; Yet, this bar has still NOT addressed this issue nor followed up with the person who was physically assaulted.. After seeing all the other negative reviews for this place, I'm surprised this chaotic behavior has allowed this place to remain open as well as why this place is still open and has the support of EastLakeview business when it's obviously not a space safe for our community. Shame.

Sierra Crisp

Google

Don’t go. Nasty bartender. Girl was laying on my shoulder and bartender rudely pointed at her and kicked us out for “sleeping”. Bad place, door man even apologized on the way out for her behavior. Lots of other good options in Boys Town, spend your money elsewhere.

Deborah C

Google

Strange to call yourself the best gay bar in Chicago when your employees feel okay with beating someone up for no reason. Leaving your customers bloody with lacerations and stitches is never ok.

Asiah Watson

Google

Not a safe place. My friend got beaten up by the bouncer and had to get stitches. DO NOT recommend. Plus one of the bartenders has herpes

Cameron Webster

Google

Looking for a good time? Come to the closet- where you get verbally abused and physically assaulted by staff. Choking and having your face bashed into the ground sounds like a good time to me! Trash.

Christina Huynh

Google

I read some bad reviews online about this place, but we had a great time. The staff was really friendly to us. I would come back again.

Ken K

Google

Not a safe space for LGBTQ patrons. Bouncers are very aggressive and have hurt individuals recently during pride weekend no less.

Dennis Jansen

Google

Great music and service. Try the Ketel One bloody Mary with a beer back.

@eater

"The Closet is a lesbian-founded bar in Northalsted, Chicago. It has been an LGBTQ staple since 1978 and provides a safe space for the queer community." - Naomi Waxman

The Closet - Review - Lakeview - Chicago - The Infatuation

"Just a block off the main Halsted bar area, The Closet has a dive bar feel and is one of my favorite places to meet other people in the community, without the pressures of trying to look hot while dancing and yelling over other drunk gays wearing speedos. If you accidentally knock over a pitcher here because of your clumsy noodle arms, the bartenders are really nice about it and so helpful - not that this has happened to me, of course. And while most bars in the area are geared towards gay men, The Closet makes sure it’s open for all queer people - including a clumsy lesbian like myself." - Abby Keller