Choice words to describe Violet Hour: sexy, mystique, elegant and James Bond. Good luck finding it, that's half the fun. Like a true speakeasy, it's well hidden. The design is very... Read more »
J Bar is a refreshing alternative to Rush Street's busy nightlife. You might mistake the setting for a restaurant, if restaurants featured plush couch seating. The small lounge... Read more »
Join a crowd of regulars, new acquaintances and late-night drinkers for last call at 4am. What sets this place apart? Mainly, the clientele and 'the later the better' attitude. When... Read more »
Not to be confused with the posh nightclub downtown. This dive bar has been thriving for over a decade, like it's run as a 1930s speakeasy. What you won't find here is the typical... Read more »
There's been much buzz over this recent addition to River North nightlife. On weekdays the kitchen serves authentic French dishes until midnight. The rooftop of lounge Paris Club... Read more »
The success of Moe's Cantina brought a second location to River North. Like a true Cantina you'll find a selection of dozens of tequila. Have it any way you like: frozen, fruity,... Read more »
The 96th floor of the John Hancock has one of the most spectacular views of the city and Lake Michigan. Skip the Observatory only floors below and grab a table next to floor to... Read more »
Always a good time at this classic dueling piano bar. Howl's saloon-style layout attracts a lively crowd. Come ready to sing, dance and clap along with incredibly talented... Read more »
Wicker Park's slice of hipster taqueria gone Wild West. This seemingly awkward combination delivers rare whiskeys and delicious tacos. Specials include five dollar martini Wednesdays... Read more »
A dance club with less posh, more punk. If you want a place that gets you dancing, look no further. The DJ spins a mix of techno, rave, funk, house and well, anything you can dance... Read more »
If you love beer and you're visiting Chicago, Hopleaf is an essential on your to-do and to-drink list. The North Side watering hole offers one of the most extensive draft and bottle selections in the entire city. The Andersonville bar was voted Best Beer Bar in Chicago Magazine's 2012 Best of Chicago Readers' Choice Awards. Read more »
You walk into a Chicago courtyard full of long, wooden refectory tables. Have a seat at the nearest one, and you’re surrounded by 1940’s Mexico... Read more »
Chicago’s perpetual energy proves there is no shortage of nighttime entertainment. River North is a catalogue of lively bars for young professionals. Along with a selection of swanky clubs, line down the block. Watch some amateurs as their flip-flops are denied entrance. Choose from a variety of live musical stylings, from catchy jazz to double-base punk. Like all Chicago business, nightlife is an enterprising market. Tequila is taking over the modern bar scene. Opt for a low-key at a late-night dive bar. The city lashes out once again, reviving the speakeasy. The entrance at Wicker Park's Violet Hour gives little hint to its identity, unless the yellow light bulb catches your eye. Cocktail hour is progressing with the times as bars and clubs introduce original, signature drinks.
Hannge-Uppe: "This is a great late-night place to be casual and have fun. Grab a beer and hit the dance floor!"
The Hideout: "Head to the Hideout on the first Saturday of the month for queer dance extravaganza Chances Dances or the last Saturday of the month for hipster dance party Life During Wartime."
Violet Hour: "Drinks require a bit of a wait, bartenders pay careful attention."