The Best Cocktail Bars in Chicago

Chicago is a city renowned for its rich dining and drinking culture. Among the most popular destinations for cocktail enthusiasts are several bars that offer unique experiences and top-notch drinks. This article highlights the cream of the crop, providing detailed information on their styles, atmospheres, and key features. If you're planning a night out in Chicago, be sure to check out these exceptional establishments.

1. Violet Hour (Wicker Park)

Violet Hour, located at 1520 N Damen Ave, is a must-visit for anyone interested in craft cocktails. The bar offers a unique entrance with a faux-speakeasy theme, which requires a hidden door camouflaged within a large mural. This can make it challenging to find, but the journey is worth it. Drinks here range from good to excellent, and the variability adds to the charm.

The establishment has a no-cellphones rule, which may seem strict, but it ensures a more relaxing environment for patrons. Violet Hour has won several awards for its innovative cocktails, such as the "Sphere of Bitters," an ice sphere embedded with various flavors that you can crack open at the table. Another signature drink, filled with lavender air, is another fantastic option.

2. Maudes Liquor Bar (West Loop)

Nestled at 840 W Randolph St, Maudes Liquor Bar is a charming spot that mimics a New Orleans atmosphere. The bar offers a mix of good to excellent drinks, with a significant variation even in the same drink. Food is generally excellent, but there is some room for improvement in consistency.

This bar is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of good atmosphere and interesting drinks. The diverse range of options ensures that you can always find something that suits your taste. Additionally, the bar offers a unique experience with its strong emphasis on New Orleans culture, making it a fantastic choice for both locals and tourists.

3. The Aviary (Near West Side)

The Aviary is located at 955 West Fulton Market and stands out for its innovative molecular mixology. This unique theme offers an array of unconventional cocktails, such as a drink encased in a bitters-infused ice sphere and another filled with lavender air, which is released at the table. These imaginative creations make for a memorable experience, and the drinks range from good to excellent.

Interestingly, The Aviary also has a basement bar, The Office, which offers a more traditional bar experience. Drinks here range from excellent to world-class, indicating high-quality offerings even in a more casual setting. Both locations are popular among locals and tourists, and they often host themed events, making them great places to visit.

Additional Notable Bars

Here are a few other bars that are highly frequented and highly recommended:

The Whistler (Logan Square)

Known for its charming ambiance and excellent drinks, The Whistler is a cozy bar in the heart of Logan Square. The bar and the surrounding area offer a great mix of vintage and contemporary vibes, making it an ideal spot for a lovely evening.

Barrel House Flat (Lincoln Park)

Located in Lincoln Park, Barrel House Flat is a classic Chicago bar that offers a wide range of spirits and craft cocktails. The venue has a welcoming atmosphere with a casual vibe, making it perfect for both social gatherings and intimate evenings.

The Savoy (Wicker Park)

If you're looking for a unique absinthe bar, The Savoy in Wicker Park is the place to go. This bar specializes in absinthe and offers a cultural experience with its European-inspired decor. Be sure to try the absinthe drip, a popular tableside preparation that you can observe and participate in.

In summary, Chicago boasts a vibrant cocktail scene with many top-notch bars. Whether you're into molecular mixology, absinthe, or just seeking an excellent craft cocktail, there's a bar to suit every taste in Chicago. These establishments not only offer fantastic drinks but also enrich the local nightlife experience in various unique and engaging ways.