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The 16 Best Bars in River North Chicago

For those looking to unwind and enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene, River North Chicago offers a plethora of options for bar-hopping enthusiasts. With a wide range of establishments to choose from, visitors can find everything from cozy speakeasies to upscale cocktail lounges in this bustling neighborhood.

Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, exploring the diverse array of bars in River North Chicago can be an exciting experience. From trendy rooftop bars with stunning views to laid-back pubs with a neighborhood feel, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this lively district.

Get ready to discover the best bars in River North Chicago and make the most of your night out in this dynamic part of the city.

How this guide is ordered

This list comes from our Chicago editors, who looked citywide for businesses with a long record of satisfied customers, details we could verify and dependable work through every season. We revisit it regularly, so let us know if something has changed.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

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Three Dots and a Dash#1
What stands out
  • Customers praise the cute tiki spot with a surprisingly large interior space that is a must-visit, especially with a reservation.

  • The knowledgeable and friendly staff impress patrons with delicious drinks and food options.

  • Guests enjoy the wonderful atmosphere provided by the different layers of the bar, from mysterious corners to lively bar areas, creating a memorable experience.

Three Dots and a Dash

4.55,160 reviews
435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Three Dots and a Dash is a top-rated cocktail bar located in Chicago, Illinois. Known for its great cocktails and live performances, this spot offers a cosy and trendy atmosphere that is perfect for groups, LGBTQ+ friendly, and welcomes tourists. With a rating of 4.5 stars from more than 5000 reviews, it's no surprise that customers rave about their experiences.

For anyone looking for a memorable night out in Chicago, Three Dots and a Dash is the place to be.

Gilt Bar#2
What stands out
  • Exceptional service with attentive and knowledgeable staff

  • Delicious and fresh ingredients in all menu items

  • Lively and classy happy hour with impressive drinks

  • Cozy and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or casual outings

Gilt Bar

4.61,482 reviews
230 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Gilt Bar is a popular restaurant located in Chicago. The establishment offers a variety of dining options including fantastic Cocktails, Beer, and Wine selections. Customers can enjoy No-contact delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in services. The bar is known for its Great beer selection and Great cocktails, creating an atmosphere that is both Cosy and Trendy. The place is also Wheelchair-accessible, catering to a wide range of customers.

Rossi's#3
What stands out
  • Excellent craft beer selection, perfect for enthusiasts and newcomers alike

  • Authentic and cozy atmosphere, ideal for after-work drinks or a casual night out

  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide top-notch service

  • Reasonable prices and great value, making it a favorite spot among locals and tourists

Rossi's

4.61,016 reviews
412 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Rossi's is a beloved bar in Chicago known for its fast service and fantastic selection of craft beer. Patrons appreciate the casual and cozy atmosphere that makes them feel right at home. The staff at Rossi's are commended for their friendly and knowledgeable service, always ready to recommend the perfect brew. Customers rave about the varied selection of alcohol, including an impressive array of beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine. The bar also offers takeaway service, perfect for those who want to enjoy their drinks at home. Overall, visitors praise Rossi's for its great value and welcoming vibe, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Chicago's craft beer scene.

Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant#4
What stands out
  • Always personally remembered, never had a bad meal, and everything is delicious.

  • Legitimate Irish breakfast, delicious food, and exceptional service.

  • Great Irish pub experience, efficient service, and dedicated event space.

Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant

4.51,423 reviews
661 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant is a bustling Irish pub located in Chicago, known for its exceptional service and delightful atmosphere. With a rating of 4.5 stars, this establishment offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in.

Guests can enjoy highlights like fast service, live performances, quiz night, and sports. Popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Kerryman provides a welcoming environment for all patrons. The amenities include a bar on-site, well-maintained toilets, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a few key points standing out:

With a warm and trendy atmosphere, Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant caters to groups, tourists, and university students. Providing an array of offerings like cocktails, comfort food, and wine, this pub ensures a memorable dining experience for all who visit.

The Green Door Tavern#5
What stands out
  • A wonderful Irish pub with fast service and a cool atmosphere.

  • Cozy dive bar with historic appeal, excellent service, and amazing food options.

  • Great Chicago pub with a brilliant decor and a fantastic atmosphere.

  • Old school vibe with a speakeasy downstairs, vibrant bar with rich history.

The Green Door Tavern

4.51,396 reviews
678 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

The Green Door Tavern is a charming restaurant located in Chicago, IL. With a rating of 4.5 stars based on 1396 reviews, this establishment is known for its exceptional service and atmosphere.

The Green Door Tavern offers a variety of service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. It is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Customers praise the great beer selection, cocktails, and the overall quality of the experience. Whether you are looking for a quick bite, private dining room, or vegetarian options, this place has it all. Make sure to check out the diverse offerings and cozy atmosphere at The Green Door Tavern during your next visit!

Theory#6
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the energetic and exciting atmosphere, especially during sports events

  • The service is noted as attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming environment for patrons

  • Food quality and portion sizes have received mixed reviews, with some finding the prices high for the offerings

Theory

4.51,135 reviews
9 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Theory is a popular bar located in Chicago, known for its fantastic service options like outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in experiences. It offers a variety of amenities including Wi-Fi and toilets, making it a great spot for a casual hangout or a fun night out with friends. Customers rave about the fast service and great beer selection that Theory has to offer.

Shamrock Club#7
What stands out
  • A hidden gem in the heart of the city

  • Delightful drinks and wallet-friendly menu

  • Cozy atmosphere with a buzz that's contagious

  • Straightforward, honest, and downright enjoyable

Shamrock Club

4.5552 reviews
210 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Shamrock Club is a popular bar located in Chicago, United States. The bar offers a variety of services and features that keep customers coming back for more. Some of these include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Additionally, Shamrock Club is known for its bar games, fast service, great beer selection, and sport events.

Customer reviews rave about the cozy atmosphere and spirited vibes at Shamrock Club. The menu, although not extensive in fancy cocktails, offers delightful drinks that hit the spot every time. The food may lean towards the comfort side, but it pairs well with a cold pint and good company. Customers appreciate the wallet-friendly menu that doesn't compromise on quality. The ambiance is described as welcoming with a contagious buzz that makes it the perfect place to catch up with friends or make new ones.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

O'Callaghan's#8
What stands out
  • Great place and friendly people. Special shoutout to Rachel, the bartender. One of the best Irish bars in Chicago!

  • Service was excellent, but the food quality was disappointing. Hopefully, management will improve this aspect.

  • Nice Irish Pub in River North Chicago. Fun stop for appetizers. Kind of a happening spot.

  • Roach infestation and unprofessional manager experience, negatively impacting the dining experience.

O'Callaghan's

4.31,342 reviews
29 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

O'Callaghan's is a popular restaurant located in Chicago, known for its fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and sporty atmosphere. Customers rave about their experience at O'Callaghan's, with a rating of 4.3 based on 1342 reviews.

With offerings like alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, happy-hour drinks, and late-night food, O'Callaghan's is a must-visit for those looking for a casual and cozy Irish pub experience in Chicago.

Parlay River North#9
What stands out
  • Great atmosphere for brunch/dinner and watching games with amazing happy hour deals.

  • Superb drinks, fantastic music, and unbeatable weekly specials that keep customers coming back for more.

  • Outstanding service, pleasantly surprised by the food quality, and a manager who goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome.

  • High-energy brunch spot with attentive service, delicious food, and reasonable prices, perfect for special occasions.

Parlay River North

4.7155 reviews
112 W Hubbard St 1st floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Parlay River North is a popular spot in Chicago, known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food and drinks. This sports bar offers a variety of options for customers including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. With fast service, a great beer selection, fantastic cocktails, live music, live performances, rooftop seating, and a love for all things sports, every visit to Parlay River North is sure to be memorable.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.7, it's clear that Parlay River North is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So whether you're looking for a fun night out, a great place to catch a game, or a delicious meal with friends, Parlay River North has everything you need for a memorable experience.

Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub#10
What stands out
  • Clyde and Hannah provided exceptional and welcoming service, making the visit memorable.

  • The bar offers more than 20 screens showing a variety of sports, accommodating diverse preferences.

  • A personal touch is added to the service, such as giving roses to couples during special occasions.

  • The selection of beer and bourbon stands out as a highlight, creating a unique dive bar atmosphere.

Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub

4.21,290 reviews
5 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub is a beloved sports bar located in Chicago, offering a range of services from delivery to dine-in. The pub is known for its bar games, fast service, and an impressive selection of beer and cocktails. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, catering to a diverse crowd including groups and tourists.

With a rating of 4.2 and over 1290 reviews, Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub continues to delight its patrons, providing a top-notch experience for locals and visitors alike.

O'Leary's Public House#11
What stands out
  • A visitor highlighted the fun and lively atmosphere of the pub, along with the support for a football team in Wisconsin.

  • Another customer praised the friendly staff, relaxing vibe, and delicious food options, expressing a desire to return and try more dishes.

  • A group of travelers from England had a fabulous time at the pub, appreciating the welcoming staff and engaging with other patrons.

  • A local patron commended the friendly staff, great pours, and enjoyable atmosphere, making it their favorite bar in Chicago.

O'Leary's Public House

4.3436 reviews
541 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

O'Leary's Public House is a lively Irish Pub located in Chicago, offering a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service. Customers can enjoy a wide range of services and features, including outdoor seating, dine-in options, and a great beer and cocktail selection. The pub also caters to sports enthusiasts with its sports-themed decor and enthusiastic crowd.

With a rating of 4.3 and more than 400 reviews, customers have shared their positive experiences at O'Leary's Public House. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Whether you're looking for a place to unwind with friends, catch a game, or enjoy a delicious meal, O'Leary's Public House provides a welcoming and entertaining experience for all.

Celeste#12
What stands out
  • The food at Celeste is outstanding, and the service is prompt.

  • The underground dance floor takes patrons back to the 80s for a fun experience.

  • The cocktails are delicious, and the atmosphere is perfect for a night of dancing and socializing.

  • The different themed floors offer something for everyone, but prices can be on the higher side.

Celeste

4.01,166 reviews
111 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Celeste is a popular cocktail bar located in Chicago, offering a range of services and features to cater to its diverse clientele. Customers can enjoy fast service and a great selection of beer and cocktails, along with live performances and rooftop seating. With its wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, Celeste ensures all customers can have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The business has received a rating of 4.0 stars based on 1166 reviews. Customers have highlighted several key points in their reviews:

Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy great drinks, dance the night away, or simply relax on a rooftop, Celeste has something for everyone. Make a reservation and experience the trendy and upmarket atmosphere for yourself.

Watershed Bar#13
What stands out
  • Customers praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, highlighting their attentive service.

  • The selection of high-quality cocktails and snacks is highly recommended by guests.

  • The relaxing and welcoming atmosphere creates the perfect setting for a night out with friends or a special event.

  • Many customers appreciate the unique and creative drink options along with the fun and lively vibe of the bar.

Watershed Bar

4.2222 reviews
601 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Watershed Bar is a popular spot located in Chicago, offering a cozy and trendy atmosphere for customers to enjoy. With a rating of 4.2 based on 222 reviews, it's clear that customers have had great experiences at this bar.

If you're looking for a spot with great service, delicious drinks, and a welcoming ambiance, Watershed Bar is the place to be.

The Boss Bar#14
What stands out
  • Customers praise the knowledgeable bartender, Victoria, who makes excellent recommendations on drinks.

  • The chill vibe and hole-in-the-wall atmosphere make it a great place to hang out with friends.

  • Visitors enjoy the pool table entertainment and friendly service from the staff.

The Boss Bar

3.81,295 reviews
420 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

The Boss Bar is a popular spot in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. From delivery and takeaway options to great beer selection and cocktails, this bar has something for everyone. With a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilets, it strives to provide a comfortable environment for all.

Overall, The Boss Bar offers a casual and trendy atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking for a laid-back evening with good drinks and company.

CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO#15
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the fantastic views and enjoyable drinks at the CloudBar, making it a must-visit location for tourists and locals alike.

  • Several visitors have praised the exceptional customer service provided by the bartenders, recommending them for a great experience.

  • The atmosphere of the bar, combined with its delicious cocktails, creates a memorable and enjoyable time for guests.

CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO

4.1195 reviews
875 N Michigan Ave 94th floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO offers a unique experience with its breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago from the 94th floor. Customers can enjoy great beer selection and cocktails while taking in the stunning skyline. The bar is wheelchair-accessible and has a trendy and upmarket atmosphere, attracting both groups and tourists. The establishment accepts reservations and credit cards, making payment and planning hassle-free for visitors. Parking is available in paid multi-storey car parks and lots, ensuring convenience for guests.

320 River Bar#16
What stands out
  • Pleasant ambiance with riverside location, ideal for a casual drink

  • Friendly and efficient bartenders providing prompt service

  • Mixed opinions on menu pricing and drink variety

  • Beautiful riverview patio and classy indoor seating

320 River Bar

3.974 reviews
320 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

320 River Bar is a popular establishment that offers a variety of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in, and a great beer selection among other highlights. The bar is known for its fast service and great cocktails, creating a welcoming and casual atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Overall, 320 River Bar is a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a relaxing place to enjoy a drink or a meal.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Three Dots and a Dash 4.55,160
#2Gilt Bar 4.61,482
#3Rossi's 4.61,016
#4Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant 4.51,423
#5The Green Door Tavern 4.51,396
#6Theory 4.51,135
#7Shamrock Club 4.5552
#8O'Callaghan's 4.31,342
#9Parlay River North 4.7155
#10Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub 4.21,290
#11O'Leary's Public House 4.3436
#12Celeste 4.01,166
#13Watershed Bar 4.2222
#14The Boss Bar 3.81,295
#15CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO 4.1195
#16320 River Bar 3.974

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Map of Bars in River North Chicago

Looking for a fun night out in River North Chicago? Look no further! With a wide array of bars to choose from, there's something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, local brew, or dancing the night away, River North has got you covered. Check out the map below to find the perfect spot for your next night out.

How to choose Bars in Chicago

  1. Unique cocktail menus.
  2. Live music and entertainment.
  3. Rooftop patios with panoramic views.
  4. Happy hour specials.
  5. Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

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