Chicago is not just known for its deep-dish pizza and towering skyline—it’s also famous for its world-class cocktail scene. From cozy speakeasies to cutting-edge lounges, the best cocktail bars in Chicago offer more than just a place to drink. These spots provide experiences steeped in history, innovation, and artistry. Let’s explore the top cocktail bars that should be on your must-visit list.
1. The Violet Hour: Chicago’s Iconic Craft Cocktail Bar
Since opening in 2007, The Violet Hour has set the standard for craft cocktails in Chicago. Located in the heart of Wicker Park, this James Beard Award-winning bar exudes a refined, speakeasy vibe. Behind an unmarked door lies a stylish, dimly lit space where cocktail craftsmanship takes center stage.
One of the bar’s signature drinks is its Old Fashioned. Each cocktail is made with precision, using fresh ingredients and house-made bitters. With a focus on pre-Prohibition-style drinks, The Violet Hour plays a significant role in Chicago’s cocktail renaissance.
Why It’s One of the Best: By introducing the craft cocktail movement to Chicago, The Violet Hour offers an experience that is both elegant and accessible.
2. The Aviary: One of Chicago’s Most Innovative Cocktail Bars
If you’re looking for a cocktail experience that’s anything but ordinary, head to The Aviary in the West Loop. Opened in 2011 by chef Grant Achatz, this bar merges molecular gastronomy with mixology to create one-of-a-kind drinks. Every cocktail here is a carefully crafted masterpiece.
The “In the Rocks” cocktail arrives in a hollow ice sphere that you break open with a small hammer. The fun doesn’t stop at the presentation—each drink bursts with flavor, making The Aviary a favorite among the best cocktail bars in Chicago.
Why It’s One of the Best: The Aviary redefines what cocktails can be, providing a unique and exciting experience for adventurous drinkers.
3. The Berkshire Room: A Chicago Favorite for Barrel-Aged Cocktails
Inside the Acme Hotel, The Berkshire Room opened in 2013 and quickly became known for its barrel-aged cocktails. One of its standout drinks is the Barrel-Finished Manhattan, which gains extra depth from aging in small oak barrels.
Another exciting feature is the “Dealer’s Choice” option, where bartenders create a custom drink based on your chosen spirit and flavor profile. This interactive element makes each visit a little different, ensuring you always have something new to try.
Why It’s One of the Best: The Berkshire Room delivers a blend of vintage sophistication with creative modern twists, offering a personalized cocktail experience.
4. Lost Lake: A Top Tiki Bar in Chicago
Located in Logan Square, Lost Lake offers a tropical escape right in the city. Since opening in 2015, the bar has earned a reputation for its refined tiki cocktails. Unlike many other tiki bars, Lost Lake uses fresh juices and house-made syrups to create perfectly balanced drinks.
The bar’s version of the classic Mai Tai is a standout. The decor, featuring palm-leaf prints and bamboo accents, immerses you in a vibrant, island-like setting. Whether you’re looking for a creative punch bowl or a solo drink, Lost Lake guarantees a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
Why It’s One of the Best: Lost Lake combines tiki culture with sophisticated flavors, making it a top spot for tiki lovers in Chicago.
5. Three Dots and a Dash: A Must-Visit Tiki Cocktail Bar in Chicago
For a hidden gem in the city, check out Three Dots and a Dash in River North. This tiki bar, named after a World War II-era cocktail, is tucked away in an alley, adding an element of mystery to your night out. Since opening in 2013, it has become a go-to destination for fun, whimsical cocktails served in over-the-top glassware.
Their signature Zombie cocktail is one of the most popular drinks—a potent combination of multiple rums and spices. Whether you’re out with friends or on a date, the colorful decor and vibrant vibe make Three Dots and a Dash one of the best cocktail bars in Chicago.
Why It’s One of the Best: The elaborate presentations and lively atmosphere make this the perfect spot for tiki cocktail lovers.
6. The Drifter: A Historic Speakeasy in Chicago
If you’re interested in a bar with a connection to Chicago’s Prohibition-era history, visit The Drifter. Hidden beneath the Green Door Tavern, this speakeasy was originally used during the 1920s. Rediscovered and reopened in 2014, The Drifter maintains much of its original charm.
A unique aspect of The Drifter is its rotating cocktail menu, delivered on tarot cards. The cozy atmosphere, paired with live entertainment such as burlesque and jazz performances, offers a fun and intimate setting.
Why It’s One of the Best: The Drifter blends history and creativity, offering a cocktail experience that feels like a journey through time.
7. Billy Sunday: Reviving Classic Cocktails in Chicago
At Billy Sunday, located in Logan Square, bartenders specialize in vintage cocktails with a modern edge. Opened in 2013, the bar is famous for its house-made bitters, vermouths, and rare liqueurs. Each drink offers layers of complexity, from the classic Negroni to more obscure cocktails using forgotten ingredients.
The bar’s apothecary-style ambiance complements the inventive drinks, making it one of the best cocktail bars in Chicago for those who appreciate both history and innovation.
Why It’s One of the Best: Billy Sunday revives vintage cocktails and forgotten ingredients, giving cocktail enthusiasts something new to discover with every visit.
8. Green Mill Cocktail Lounge: A Chicago Jazz and Cocktail Icon
Few bars in Chicago carry as much history as the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge. Established in 1907, it was once a favorite spot for infamous mobster Al Capone. Today, it’s a haven for jazz lovers and cocktail enthusiasts. With its Art Deco decor and nightly jazz performances, Green Mill offers an atmosphere that transports you back to the Roaring Twenties.
Order a classic cocktail like a Sidecar or Old Fashioned, and enjoy live music in one of Chicago’s most iconic venues. For those who appreciate a blend of history, music, and great drinks, the Green Mill is one of the best cocktail bars in Chicago.
Why It’s One of the Best: The combination of rich history, live jazz, and expertly made cocktails creates an unmatched experience.
Raise Your Glass: A Toast to Chicago’s Cocktail Culture
Chicago’s cocktail scene is as diverse as the city itself. From modern mixology to Prohibition-era charm, the best cocktail bars in Chicago offer something for everyone. Whether you’re after a classic drink or an innovative creation, these iconic spots promise a night to remember. So, next time you’re in the Windy City, take the time to visit these cocktail havens and experience the magic they have to offer.