Best Dive Bars in Chicago, IL

20 places

Discover the heart and soul of Chicago's nightlife through a selection of dive bars that celebrate community, history, and a relaxed atmosphere. Each spot offers a unique blend of character, from classic decor to live music, making them cherished local hangouts.

Inside

Burwood Tap

Open until

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4.0

Nostalgic, Burwood Tap embodies classic Chicago charm, offering a comforting atmosphere and memorable moments in a beloved local dive.

Guinness @ Sovereign Liquors.   6202 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL

Sovereign Liquors

Open until

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4.0

Charming and timeless, Sovereign Liquors is a neighborhood gem offering friendly vibes, six-pack deals, and a jukebox that sets the mood.

Late Night Stop @ Simon's Tavern 5210 N Clark St, Chicago, IL . Old Classic Dive Bar in Andersonville. CASH only.ATM inside. Cool.

Simon's Tavern

Open until

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4.0

Eclectic vibes fill Simon's Tavern, where I savor Swedish glogg and enjoy an impressive jukebox in a dive bar with Viking fish decor.

The band setting up....

Carol's Pub

Open until

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4.5

Timeless, with live country music, classic fried bologna, and bourbon. It's an iconic Chicago dive with a history that feels alive.

Darts at the North End

The North End

Open until

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3.5

Inviting, The North End stands out with its friendly vibe, local craft beers, and fun activities like pool and darts, creating a lively community spot.

Nisei Lounge photo

Nisei Lounge

Open until

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4.0

Distinctive for its deep roots in the community, Nisei Lounge pairs cheap Old Style cans and creative cocktails with free darts in a relaxed vibe.

Say no more!!! Pictures don't lie and the prices don't either! Hidden gem in Chicago! Charles Mansion would approve.

L & L Tavern

Open until

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3.5

Intriguing tales of notorious criminals blend with a remarkable Irish whiskey collection, making each visit to L & L Tavern a captivating experience.

Green Death - Pure class

Reed's Local

Open until

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4.5

Vibrant and full of life, Reed's Local combines cheap beer with the charm of VHS tapes and lively open mic nights for a truly unique experience.

Some awesome artwork for horror fans.

Delilah's

Open until

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4.5

Unforgettable atmosphere, Delilah's is the go-to for whiskies and an epic wine selection amidst the vibrant punk and goth scene.

Liar's Club photo

Liar's Club

Opens at

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4.0

Hauntingly unique, the Liar's Club offers cheap drinks, live music, and a spirited atmosphere, making it a must-visit dive bar experience.

Ice cold ice water.

Whirlaway Lounge

Open until

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4.0

Iconic for its roots in Triple Crown history, Whirlaway Lounge blends horse racing lore with a warm Blackhawks fan atmosphere.

Bob Inn . 2609 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL  Old Fashion Corner Dive Bar.Pool .Cash Only!  Cool!

Bob Inn

Open until

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4.0

Genuine camaraderie fills Bob Inn, where a vintage jukebox sets the mood, and North Side White Sox pride brings locals together.

Drink Menu @ Rosa's Lounge.  3420 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL  Old Chicago Live Jazz & Blues Lounge. Cool!

Rosa's Lounge

Opens at

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4.5

Essentially a hub for live blues, Rosa's Lounge combines dim lighting with affordable drinks, creating an easygoing atmosphere for all.

Some famous visitors

Old Town Ale House

Open until

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4.0

Authentic, this dive offers a quirky gallery of nude politician art, a lending library, and a long-standing, eclectic atmosphere.

Restroom looks sick

Innertown Pub

Open until

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4.0

Quaintly cozy, the Innertown Pub offers eclectic decor, ’60s art, and a welcoming vibe with cheap drinks and lively open mic nights.

Hamm's Sign

Archie's Iowa & Rockwell Tavern

Open until

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4.0

Comforting is the atmosphere at Archie's, where diverse drink options meet a welcoming vibe, perfect for neighbors and their pups.

The Chipp Inn photo

The Chipp Inn

Open until

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4.5

Authentic dive bars resonate with a sense of history; The Chipp Inn's antique décor and community vibe create an unforgettable after-hours haven.

Rossi's Liquors photo

Rossi's Liquors

Open until

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4.0

Unpretentious, Rossi's Liquors offers a cozy dive bar vibe with a diverse selection of craft beers, embodying Chicago's distinctive charm.

Chicken Club a special

Skylark

Open until

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4.0

Rustic charm fills Skylark, a spacious dive brimming with employee ownership pride, famous tater tots, and a nod to 'The Break Up.'

Bernice's Tavern photo

Bernice's Tavern

Open until

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4.5

Welcoming vibes at Bernice's Tavern tie the community together, with bartender Mike ensuring everyone feels right at home.