43 Best Dive Bars in Chicago

Richard's Bar Bar • $
491 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Cigarettes
Miller

“Was sent here to enjoy a drink while we waited for our table nextdoor from the owner Armando at La Scarola. Despite not being a smoker, there was nostalgia around enjoying a drink in the smokey Cheers inspired ambience. A bartender even put on Svengoolie which just wrapped it all together. I enjoyed a Limoncello and my date a whiskey neat. Enjoying a little taste of old school Chicago wasn't originally planned but definitely appreciated!“

4.8 Superb58 Reviews
Best Intentions Bar • $
3281 W Armitage Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

High Life and an Ango
Double Cheeseburger
Mint Milkshakes
Fries

“This place offers the most quintessential neighborhood bar feel with more than a few trucks up it's sleeve. From the best smash burger you will ever have in your life (only $6), to Angostura shots, to a booze filled mint green shake you cannot finish, this bar has it all. The staff are happy and have a good vibe between each other which made me feel happy to be there. The place was absolutely packed but no one was rude or pushy. Just a great vibe over all with great drinks and great food. Definitely recommend.“

4.7 Superb41 Reviews
Rainbo Club Bar • $
1150 N Damen Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

High Life
Old Style

“No food but have chips if you ask. One of the best bars in Chicago. Top ten on my list. Mostly artist and locals. And the occasional person looking for a bezt dive bar. Great place to meet friends and make friends. The bar staff has always been my favorite.“

4.4 Superb36 Reviews
Rossi's Bar • $
412 N State St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

6 Shots of Malort
Shot of Melort
Virtue Cider
Old Style

“Visiting for work a couple days and had some down time to kill. 1st day, met Frank.. super friendly and made me feel welcomed. Played darts with some people from Belgium. Touch tunes and drinks are priced right. Met Jeff and regular and Mark the 2nd day I came. Great dive bar!!“

4.6 Superb87 Reviews
Shinnicks Pub Bar • $
3758 S Union Ave, Chicago

“It consistently remains an excellent spot for enjoying drinks, whether with family or friends, prior to or following Sox games. As one of the last original bars in Bridgeport, it holds historical significance and promises many more years of success and enjoyment to come. A must-visit spot in Bridgeport's rich history.“

5 Superb20 Reviews
Old Town Ale House Bar • $
219 W North Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Miller High Life
Malort Shots

“This is one of my favorite bars on earth, and I’ve done my best to see visit as many as I can across four continents. I took a break of about five years in between visits once and the bartenders still remembered my name. Classy. As you know, it’s cash only. Some other rules are that you can’t fall asleep at the bar. But, being drunk on its own is fine. I think there is still no TV, thank goodness.“

4.6 Superb72 Reviews
Ricky G's Bar • $
7121 N Western Ave, Chicago

“I'm so glad G's is back open! The whole vibe of the place has changed. Make sure you stop by to see Esther on Wed or Fri. She makes the whole experience better! From having a expert knowledge of drinks to her warm and welcoming personality, she makes your night! It's a lively and colrful feel and the patio is out of this world!“

4.9 Superb24 Reviews
Liar’s Club Bar • $
1665 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Shot of Four Roses & a PBR

“Really cool spot. You wouldn't even think it's a functioning bar from the outside, but when you walk in, you're greeted with a really neat ambience. It reminds me of the salty platoon from SpongeBob but with an incredibly friendly staff. The music they have is great. Super cool bar- 10/10 recommend“

4.7 Superb42 Reviews
Hungry Brain Dive Bar • $$
2319 W Belmont Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Half Acre Vallejo

“great local spot...a family member's show thankfully led me here--when i've lived in the area for years. sadly didn't visit sooner but will now always keep in mind. they were out of a few drink ingredients but i still really enjoyed my visit - love the chalkboard menu and intimate setting for a show. can't wait to hang out in the beer garden on cooler evening.“

4.8 Superb25 Reviews

10
O's Tap

O's Tap Bar • $
2044 N Western Ave, Chicago

“I've been knows the number of times and I've always liked it. They've done a lot building out the rear space and that's nice to have expanded area because it was a little bit tight before. They have a stage in the main area which allows them to have entertainment.“

4.9 Superb37 Reviews
Bernice's Tavern Bar • $
3238 S Halsted St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Bud Light Mgo

“Calling this place a "dive-bar" is a disservice. It's a family run neighborhood bar with the works. Good music (from an awesome preloaded jukebox), a fair selection of beer, wines, and spirits, friendly and quick service, and a very laid back and welcoming atmosphere. The mood definitely gets more upbeat and rowdy(in a good way) when there are things like bingo (Stingo) or live music performances going on, but even when those aren't happening, you can bet there's an interesting film being played on their TV. The owner Steve runs a tight ship, and it shows. I urge anyone passing by or new to the area to come grab a beer on a weekend or weekday night (except Tuesdays because I don't think they're open those days). You're guaranteed to run into the colorful characters that make up the Bridgeport community. I live in the Midway area, and the drive to get here is more than worth the trip. Stop by, grab a beer, order some Japanese food from next door (or tacos across the street) and start a conversation. You'll be hooked immediately and won't regret it ✨“

4.8 Superb24 Reviews
Web Pub Bucktown Pubs • $
2026 W Webster Ave, Chicago

“My experience at this bar was in the late 70s and early 80s. My husband, Michael and his partner Micky owned this place when my husband was in medical school. There was one of many brawls here that were just hilarious. One in February when the entire bar cleared into the street and “dibs” chairs were thrown everywhere. The police showed up and everyone was back in the bar like nothing happened. It had a liquor rack over the square bar. There was a neighborhood Elvis impersonator dancing on the bar. All at once the liquor rack crashed onto the bar. My husband proposed to me there. Always something with a cast of characters. I’m sure it’s very different now. Great memories ??“

5 Superb26 Reviews
Sky Ride Tap Lounges • $
105 W Van Buren St, Chicago

“Est. 1971Layout/atmosphere*Long bar with semicircle indent in the middle; wood panel walls; three TVs; internet jukebox; Blackhawks paraphernalia; cash onlyService*Friendly bartender (Meg)Food/drink*No food menu; chips, pretzels*Beers available for to-go purchase“

4.7 Superb31 Reviews
The Corner Bar Bar • $
2224 N Leavitt St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Happy Hour Special
You

“Going to corner bar is an experience for the select of Chicago. Big shout outs to Jamie, Bill, and Shawneice who keep the vibes going, the tequila flowing, and a dart board that can easily enthrall the whole bar. If dive bars with funny, caring, silly people aren’t your thing - steer clear!“

4.9 Superb34 Reviews
Fritzy's Tavern Bar • $
6156 N Clark St, Chicago

“I love going to Fritzy's Tavern if they accept credit cards, debit cards, Google Pay and Apple Pay. I can't wait to go this good bar again. My favorite bar is better than The Anvil. If you're not satisfied with the gay bar The Anvil that only accept cash, DON'T GO THERE on Granville Ave.“

5 Superb25 Reviews

16
J&M Tap

J&M Tap Bar • $
957 N Leavitt St, Chicago

“Excellent old school Ukrainian Village bar. No sign on the front which is already a good sign (no pun intended). Great drink prices and great bartender, Clayton. Had a Bell's Two-Hearted, bought a t-shirt and continued my bar crawl. Great first stop.“

4.8 Superb22 Reviews
The Empty Bottle Dive Bar • $
1035 N Western Ave, Chicago

“What can I say about this place that hasn't been said already? One of the best venues in the city. Cheap drinks, affordable ticket prices, cool staff, great sound. All the makings of a perfect spot. Sure, it's not fancy or brand new. But its dive bar charm and long history stacks it up against any other venue around. If you're looking for a chill time with some good music, I highly suggest giving the Bottle a visit.“

4.5 Superb75 Reviews

18
Skylark

Skylark Bar • $
2149 S Halsted St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Skylark Burger
Beer and Tots
Cheese Burger
Birthday Cake
Mac & Cheese
Pierogies
Fish

“Neighborhood institution with a lot of "local bar" vibe. Apparently the employees had just bought out the previous long-standing owner. Came here for a friend's get together. Had the black bean burger (very mildly spiced) - my first one - which was good. Service was excellent given that it was packed Saturday night. Very noisy though which made it hard to carry on a conversation.Vegetarian options: Black bean burgerParking: Although street parking was full for a Saturday night, it seemed that there was high rate of cars lvg, so ppl were able to find parking.“

4.7 Superb60 Reviews
Carol's Pub Pubs • $
4659 N Clark St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Bologna Sandwich
Fried Cheese Curds
Fried Pickle Chips
Chicken Tenders
Carol's Burger
Smoked Wings
French Fries

“We met up with friends and family members on Thanksgiving weekend, and had a blast! The band was awesome and made the night- Patrick Bale and the Pale Ales- hope to see them play again soon! The atmosphere is so unique, with character and charm, also artsy and styled- fun for all ages. We didn’t eat but drinks (and shots!) were flowing. We’ll be back for sure.“

4.7 Superb59 Reviews
Shamrock Club Bar • $
210 W Kinzie St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Ribeye Steak Sandwich
Charbroiled Burger
Steak Sammich
Onion Rings
Wing Dings
Fries

“On my recent visit to Chicago me and my wife found the Shamrock and visited the bar 3 times. Every time drinks and service was first class and friendly staff and locals. Special shout out to Fabian.The wife loved Hendricks and tonic.Will definitely be returning on our next trip to Chicago to our favourite bar in Chicago.“

4.7 Superb58 Reviews
Nilda's Place Bar • $
1858 W Iowa St, Chicago

“Stumbled in here by chance and had a great time on a somewhat busy night. Cheap drinks, cold beer, and Nilda is an absolute angel. Her pup Frijolito is a lil cutie too. I hope Nilda is able to keep this place in business for years to come as they don’t make ‘em like this anymore!“

4.9 Superb13 Reviews
Lilly's Bar Bar • $
2515 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago

“I think about this place often when I want to take a mental break. It is so cozy, eclectic, filled with history, random vintage sales upstairs, the almost Harry Potter like ambiance - it's the perfect mix of history, effortless cool, and mystery.“

4.6 Superb27 Reviews
aliveOne Bar • $
2683 N Halsted St, Chicago

“walked by randomly on a Wednesday and went to the bar where I heard some music. the band was excellent, a really unique style, but brilliant. but the best part was meeting Thomas, the bar manager. as soon as I walked in he greeted me warmly and upon hearing it's my first time in Chicago, a shot was poured and I got the lowdown on local beers. I had a good chat with Thomas and could see how he was well liked by everyone there. would love to go back“

4.7 Superb49 Reviews
The Native Bar • $
2417 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

“Last stop in Logan Square. Last bar before heading home. Favorite bar. Cash only is ok. Loved this bar. I stuck with beers, but my family had some cocktails. Bartender on Friday night was awesome! Bar had an old-school feel. It was later in the night and was more crowded. Lots of fun! There was a nice outdoor area. It looks like they may have live music, too. This was my favorite of the 4 or 5 bars we visited on this trip.“

4.1 Good34 Reviews
Jefferson Inn Bar • $
4874 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

“Just stopped in coz i needed the bathroom. A quick shot and a sip of water and out the door. It looked interesting and the bartender was friendly, especially since no one was in the place on a Sunday afternoon. I will return for some drinking next time I am in the area.“

4.6 Superb23 Reviews
Sovereign Liquors Bar • $
6202 N Broadway, Chicago

“I watched Andrew Luck beat Peyton Manning in a playoff game in this bar in January of 2015. I was there with my cousin, his wife, and some friends. Never been back, but we still incessantly reference “The Sovereign” any chance we get, nearly 10 years later. It’s that kinda bar ??“

4.7 Superb15 Reviews
Jimmy's On Clark Bar • $
6973 N Clark St, Chicago

“Great, friendly, neighborhood bar. Jimmy will make you feel like you've been friends forever. Not usually open on Sundays, but Jimmy will open specially for Bears games, and you might also get to sample his homemade chili, sloppy joes, or maybe even some Little Caesar's pizza! ?“

4.8 Superb21 Reviews
Patrick's Tavern Bar • $$
6296 S Archer Ave, Chicago

“Great Chicago Tavern. Old Style on tap. Malort behind the counter(ant your own risk, lol). Owner is awesome. Went here because growing up as a kid in Chicago I’ve been to taverns with the old man but never been to one as an adult. Would definitely go back here again.“

5 Superb8 Reviews
The Lodge Tavern Bar • $
21 W Division St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Little Sumpin' Sumpin'
Goose Island 312
Peanut Shells
Cuervo Silver
Old Style
Jameson
Stella
Tito's
Harp

“Food ok. Lots of beer options. We got the bait and switch on Sunday. We can in and asked where we could see the Giants game. They said anywhere. AFTER we ordered drinks and food they can over and said they don’t have Sunday ticket. That’s terrible. Will never come back“

4.6 Superb58 Reviews
Cody's Public House Sports Bar • $$
1658 W Barry Ave, Chicago

“Cody's is a great time. Staff is very friendly and attentive. Although it can get very crowded on the weekends, if you can claim a spot by a dart board or the pool table, you won't want to leave. It's also worth mentioning that the back patio is a very chill vibe on summer nights. The only thing keeping me from giving Cody's 5 stars is that if you go earlier in the day, you will find adults who bring their children who will often times run around unattended. Cody's is also pet friendly which is awesome. However after having a few drinks, it becomes worrisome that you can easily step on some of the small dogs that are hard to spot. Overall, Cody's is great.“

4.6 Superb54 Reviews
Archie's Iowa Rockwell Tavern Bar • $
2600 W Iowa St, Chicago

“This place is a great local watering hole. I wouldn't come here looking for a classy cocktail bar - it's ideal for cheap drinks and conversation. The space isn't very large, but the space wasn't crowded. I had a great time - six bucks for a beer and a “

4.5 Superb22 Reviews
Timber Lanes Bowling Alley Dive Bar • $
1851 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago

“This is the best alley in the city. The owner is beyond kind and truly supportive from beginners to pros.The bar is great, it's byof, bring your own food. Lots of options near here, or get a candy bar and chips. They have a jukebox you can select songs on, and lockers for your balls.Pencil scoring old school awesome bowling here!“

4.6 Superb45 Reviews
The Tin Lizzie Bar • $
2483 N Clark St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Goose Islano - IL Greenline
Boston Brewing-MA Sam '76
Goose Island Beer Hug
Bells-MI Two Hearted
Soft Pretzel Cheese
Juicy Peach Leine
Pepperoni Pizza
Chicken Tenders
Chips & Salsa
Chicken Wings

“Came here for the musical night.The ambience was nice. I like the blue fairy lights hanging down. A lot of Detroit Lions decor.Tables on both side and the 3 performers walked in the middle. The singers were better than I expected! They mainly stay in the inside of the restaurant but they also walked to the bar area where there were some more tables. One of them engaged with every table while she sang. The male singer could be a lot better if he didn’t leave the mic so close to his mouth.There were trivia games in between performances. So you were not listening to musical songs the whole time.The ticket ($65) includes one drink and one food item. The choices were pizza and chicken tenders. Food was okay. It’s a little pricey. Glad the singers were good though.Metered street parking outside.“

4.5 Superb190 Reviews

34
Homer's

Homer's Bar • $
4518 S McDowell Ave, Chicago

“This is the best place ever they have great food great people the own comes up greats you it's like that move Cheers. ..where everyone knows your name after 7:00 a DJ comes on Saturday for the younger crowd. .lol that's when I go plenty of parking“

4.8 Superb12 Reviews
GO Tavern & liquors Bar • $
3219 W Armitage Ave, Chicago

“You have to like dives, but if you like dives they deliver on high end & low end options for every beer or spirit variety. A great place to watch any sporting event from Soccer to Baseball to College Basketball. A phenomenonal back patio & to go options too.“

4.4 Superb24 Reviews
Lemmings On Damen Bar • $
1850 N Damen Ave, Chicago

“This is a small town community pub in a big city. Think "Cheers" atmosphere. I was in from out of town looking for a place to watch the Superbowl, they don't have huge TVs, but the had a pot luck for their patrons and the atmosphere was so friendly and welcoming. I was delighted with the experience.“

4.6 Superb27 Reviews
Side Street Saloon Bar & Grill • $
1456 W George St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Sausage Mushroom and Garlic
Caprese Grilled Cheese
Cheese Pizza
Brew Buddies

“Dang ol great place man. Went with dang ol Gribble, Hank and Bill for Bobby's dang ol birthday man. Dang ol pizza was great man. Bartender was that dang ol funny and listened when Gribble went on about conspiracies man. When I need an Alamo, I'm coming to Side street man and play dang ol Willie Nelson on Touchtunes man. ♥️“

4.5 Superb59 Reviews
double bubble Bar • $
6036 N Broadway, Chicago

“I'm kicking myself that I didn't get to this place sooner. I've driven past it for years. They are dog friendly yet they serve food, albeit a limited menu. That's unusual and a huge plus for me and my pups. I got a burger and it was solid. I don't remember the price but it was fair, as we're the drinks. I will definitely be returning.“

4.6 Superb22 Reviews
Keenan O'Reilly's Pub Bar • $
3916 N Ashland Ave, Chicago

“Cool place that's a dive but it's also clean. It's also pretty cheap for some stiff ass drinks. Keenan O'Reilly's sounds like an Irish pub, but it can seem like any kind of pub. Has no food but they let customers bring some in. There's lots of TVs for watching games or stuff. Best thing about this place is that it's cheap. It's about $6 for some basic cocktails, even with the good stuff like Jameson. Find some harder to find things in bottles and cans. They also have a reach in cooler full of good stuff. Among the not as usual things is the PBR made with cold brew. There's also a back room with ping pong and pool tables. Play around with some balls. There's also a juke box that has classics and others. For sure it's not Irish. It's just a regular dive bar pretty much. That's okay because the drinks are good and cheap though.“

4.8 Superb10 Reviews
Driftwood Bar • $
1021 W Montrose Ave, Chicago

“Good old divey ass bar. If you're around Montrose and Sheridan this is one of the big hangouts. Driftwood is casual and fun. Prices are pretty okay and there's usually some specials going on. The only strange thing is the hours can be weird. A lot of reasons to come here. If coming to watch a game, this is a good place. There's lots of TVs. Also if you like to play games. Lots are here playing darts or pool. Gets crowded. May be a wait before you can play. As for the drinks, not bad. It's about $6 for a cocktail. These are basic, but hey it's good prices. Besides people, it's also good to bring dogs. If dogs need water they give out bowls free. The strangest thing about this place is that it's closed Sundays.“

4.4 Superb19 Reviews
Montrose Saloon Dive Bar • $
2933 W Montrose Ave, Chicago

“This is one of the best venues for emerging, up-and-coming bands on Chicago's north side. Typically one flat fee of 15 bucks, and that gets you in all night to see at least four to five bands. If you don't like the music of the band you're listening to wait a little while and a new one is up there. Bands rotate every hour on the hour. It's a cool and friendly atmosphere“

4.5 Superb51 Reviews
Christina's Place Bar • $
3759 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago

“It was alright. Lotta pool sharks; but they were cool.I bought a beer and tipped on it — but fer some reason the bartender wouldn't take it?(It's not, like, I gave a her pocket change. It was $3 on a, like, $4 beer.)That was weird.Karaoke is always fun, tho'.“

4.3 Superb35 Reviews
Grace & Leavitt Bar • $
2157 W Grace St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Great Lakes Eliot Ness Vienna Larger
Miller Lite Light Pilsner
Modelo Especial Pilsner
Half Acre Pony Pilsner
Dovetail Vienna Lager
Negra Modelo
Popcorn

“My fiancé and I recently hosted our engagement party at Grace and Leavitt and loved every bit of it! It was a perfect venue for our private event of ~50 people. We received many compliments from our guests on the space and cocktail menu. The bartender Jenna was also super helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend G&L!“

4.5 Superb41 Reviews
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