Drinking Great Cocktails

Our guide to the 25 quintessential bars that make Chicago what it is.

11 spots for when a regular ol’ martini just won’t do.

Brasero in West Town is a worthy choice if you want a fun group dinner with good Latin food.

Shanghai Terrace is a fancy Chinese restaurant inside of the Peninsula Hotel on the Mag Mile.

Mirra in Bucktown makes Mexican and Indian dishes you should seek out a.s.a.p.

Despite the sometimes snoozy Peruvian food, Kayao in Old Town is fun, alive on weekends, and useful for the area.

The South Loop spot where you’ll want to become a regular.

Hawksmoor in River North is a London-based steakhouse with upscale and forgettable British food.

An unpretentious neighborhood bar with a fantastic Happy Hour.

Cariño is an intimate Latin restaurant in Uptown with a playful tasting menu and excellent late-night taco omakase.

Because drinking "in secret" still has its thrills.

Galit is a Middle Eastern restaurant in Lincoln Park with great food.

Anelya is a great Avondale restaurant serving delicious Ukrainian food in a fun, whimsical space.

Daisy's is a great New Orleans-inspired restaurant in Hyde Park. Order a po' boy.

Bring your brightest sundress to Bar La Rue in the West Loop, not an appetite.

Chef’s Special is a very good Chinese restaurant from the team behind Giant.

Nobody's Darling is a great cocktail bar in Andersonville.

Dorothy is a great lesbian cocktail bar with regular events like open mics and poetry readings.

Tre Dita is a glitzy Italian restaurant in the St. Regis Hotel that's perfect for when you want to feel like a VIP and eat great pasta.

A hotel bar with tasty Nikkei small plates and fruity cocktails.

Clara is a cocktail bar and music venue in Wicker Park where you can hear everything from jazz combos to classical music ensembles.

There are plenty of places to drink in the neighborhood, but these are our favorites.

Lemon is an ideal West Town bar for cocktail nerds who want to casually take in some live jazz.

Never has a burger carried a restaurant more.

Gaoku is a unique izakaya in Humboldt Park with delicious Japanese-Thai dishes and drinks.