Top Rated Nightlife in Chicago

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.

Inspired by the Morse code for victory, Three Dots and a Dash was a cocktail drink invented by Don the Beachcomber 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. The food menu includes classic island fare and specialty items like marinated shrimp and pineapple and sweet potato curry.

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 speakeasy-style 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.

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 cozy 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 wide selection of unique brews. So come over here, sit back, and enjoy your drink.

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.

Smart Bar is one of Lakeview's most popular venues, offering a large space for techno fans to get down to resident DJs and a handful of guest acts. This legendary venue boasts an unparalleled lineup of DJs and cutting-edge artists, creating an immersive sonic experience that pulsates through its walls. The bar offers an impressive selection of crafted cocktails and libations for patrons to stay refreshed throughout the night. Drinks are poured heavy, music played loud, and partiers dance their hearts out almost any night of the week at this local hot spot for all things music.