Top Rated Nightlife in Chicago

The oft-overlooked location of this intimate bar and lounge features a hidden door amongst a brightly painted mural. Once inside, patrons enter the striking lounge through heavy velvet curtains into a room full of high-backed armchairs and subtle violet-tinted lighting. The uniformed bartenders keep the spirits at this James Beard-winning bar flowing, serving expertly made classic and creative cocktails, while the upscale bar bites satiate hungry patrons. Unlike other establishments, this bar and lounge restrict cell phone use, which makes it the perfect place to disconnect from technology and connect with your companions.

A landmark for jazz music in Chicago, Green Mill Jazz Club is a must-visit for aficionados of this genre. Going back to 1907, this place is steeped in history, with photographic testaments and artifacts dotting its walls. Back in the early 20th Century, this club was American gangster Al Capone's local haunt. Over the years, it retained its old-world charm and the aura of the Prohibition era with Art Deco interiors to its credit. On the menu are signature cocktails and spirits. This lounge plays host to jazz concerts by established and emerging musicians. Also, don't miss their popular Poetry Slam event.

With the booze shop and club both inside yet operating independently, this bar operates on an innovative foundation. With some of the greatest bartending in Chicago, a wide selection of spirits, and craft beers, Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar has everything you could want in a bar. This dingy pub and beer garden is a must-visit location for a variety of reasons. Warm, close-knit, and relaxed describe the atmosphere at Maria's. Yellow lights and beer bottle chandeliers make up the décor. Beer lovers will enjoy the bar's selection of over 475 unique brews. So come over here, sit back, and enjoy your drink.

Inspired by the Morse code for victory, Three Dots and a Dash was a cocktail drink invented by Don the Beachcomber, the founder of tiki bars, to commemorate the success of the Allied team during World War II. Owner and mixologist Paul Mcgee named his brainchild after this popular drink. Three Dots and a Dash blends a traditional tiki bar feel with modern elements. The menu features typical rum concoctions like Mai Tai, Halekulani, Pago Pago, Jet Pilot, and the eponymous Three Dots and a Dash. During its opening in 2013, this place received famous visitors like Aston Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Danny Masterson, and Jenny McCarthy.

Big Star pays homage to the honky tonk era of Bakersfield with hillbilly music played nightly and the bar brimming with single barrel bourbon, tequila and beer. This late-night destination is also known for its Mexican street food-influenced menu. Dig into their dishes like Papas Con Rajas, Taco Al Pastor, Taco de Pollo and The Walking Taco. Take a sip of drinks like Lone Star, Gold Dust Gimlet, or Bakersfield Mule, or order a beer on the tap. Kick back and relax with your buddies at this laid-back food joint.

Buddy Guy's Legends recreates the grungy feel of blues dives during the days when blues was just becoming popular. Within this legendary bar, a cherished highlight awaits the illustrious Hall of Fame. Adorning its walls are precious relics of musical history, including Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy's Grammy Awards. This establishment transcends being a mere drinking spot; it embodies a way of life immersed in the soul-stirring melodies of blues and jazz. If you hold music dear to your heart, prepare for a harmonious sanctuary that may soon become your preferred sanctuary!