Happy hour is a time to unwind and catch up with friends or coworkers after a long day of work. In Chicago, there's no shortage of great happy hour spots to choose from.
Whether you're looking for a trendy bar with craft cocktails or a cozy pub with cheap beer, there's something for everyone in the Windy City.
But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to go. That's why we've put together a list of the best happy hour spots in Chicago.
From downtown to the suburbs, we've scoured the city to find the best deals and the most fun atmospheres.
So whether you're in the mood for a classic margarita or a refreshing beer, we've got you covered.
Keep reading to discover the best happy hour spots in Chicago and start planning your next after-work outing.
1. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a lively Spanish tapas restaurant with a great happy hour.
The food is delicious and the sangria is a must-try. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a fantastic experience.
The atmosphere is lively but not too noisy, perfect for a night out with friends.
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often busy.
2. Three Dots and a Dash
Three Dots and a Dash is a tropical bar with a retro Polynesian-style setting. This happy hour spot is known for its classic tropical cocktails, rums, and house daiquiris.
The ambiance is cool and fun, with dim lighting and loud music. The outdoor dining area is attractive, and you can reserve a table in advance online. The appetizers are great, flavorful fried bar fare.
The drinks are well-made and strong, with plenty of alcohol. Three Dots and a Dash is a top tier speakeasy in Chicago and a must-stop for wonderfully put together cocktails.
The prices are reasonable for the quality, but the bar can get crowded during peak hours. If you're bar hopping, make sure to add this spot to your journey.
3. Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern is a rustic-meets-modern Italian spot that's perfect for a happy hour hangout.
The upscale space offers a mozzarella bar, homemade pastas, and Neapolitan pies. Guests can choose from an extensive wine list and enjoy the bar and lounge area.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making for a great customer experience. Try the Coccoli and Lavender Bramble mocktail for a unique taste.
Siena Tavern is a great choice for those looking for a fine dining experience without breaking the bank.
4. The Franklin Room
The Franklin Room is a must-visit happy hour spot. With its warm atmosphere and great service, it's the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
The $1 oyster and $5 whiskey boy happy hour deal is unbeatable, and the cocktails are creative and delicious.
The food menu is also worth trying, with dishes like the lamb shank and tuna crudo being fresh and tasty.
The bar has an impressive selection of whiskeys and beers, making it a great spot for serious aficionados. Don't miss out on this gem!
5. Fado Irish Pub
Fado Irish Pub is a great spot for happy hour. The atmosphere is traditional Irish with plenty of Guinness and whiskey options.
The pub food is delicious, especially the fish and chips.
The staff is attentive and friendly, making for a pleasant experience. Sports fans will enjoy the European soccer on TV.
If you're looking for a fun and relaxed happy hour spot, Fado Irish Pub is definitely worth checking out.
6. Sparrow
Sparrow is a sophisticated cocktail bar with Cuban flair. This happy hour spot offers classic cocktails and wine with old Floridian vibes.
The rum list is extensive and the drinks are well-balanced. The ambiance is intimate and perfect for a cocktail before or after dinner.
Sparrow is walk-ins only and can get crowded at night, but the happy hour (M-F 4-7) is very chill.
The bartenders are willing to engage in conversation around their crafty spirits. Sparrow is a great spot for a date or double date.
7. LUXBAR
LUXBAR is a polished, upscale happy hour spot with a lively atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of fantastic drinks and upscale comfort food.
The separate Build Your Own Manhattan menu is a fun way to create your perfect cocktail.
The service is attentive and quick, making for a great overall experience.
The outdoor patio and second-floor terrace offer great views of the surrounding neighborhood. Reservations are recommended as the space can get quite busy.
8. AceBounce
AceBounce is a ping-pong club with an upscale atmosphere that serves gourmet New American cuisine and craft cocktails.
The club offers a decent happy hour and is a great spot to hang out with friends. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the energy is terrific.
The venue is perfect for team building events or celebrations, with private areas available for groups.
The game hosts are enthusiastic and make the experience enjoyable for everyone. AceBounce is a fun place to visit and is highly recommended for those looking for a unique night out.
9. Easy Bar
Easy Bar is an excellent happy hour spot that offers half-priced drinks from 5-7 pm on weekdays. The bar has a great ambiance with comfy couches, tables, and two bars.
The bartenders are efficient, friendly, and know how to pour a proper-sized drink. They have a solid selection of beer and whiskey, and the daily specials are worth trying.
The bar also has a pool table that is in good shape, and the back bar area has couches to relax and hang out. The door security is pleasant, and the bar features an eclectic jukebox.
The prices are reasonable, and the bar has a versatile ambiance for both group and intimate interactions. Easy Bar is a great place to unwind and catch up with friends over drinks.
10. The Press Room
The Press Room is a cozy happy hour spot with a vintage vibe and a great selection of drinks.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and the food is delicious.
The dim lighting adds to the ambiance, but can make it a bit difficult to see the menu.
The music can be a bit loud at times, but overall it's a great spot for a night out.
11. Bar Sotano
Bar Sotano offers a cool and casual atmosphere perfect for a fun night out.
The bartenders are knowledgeable about their tequilas and mezcals, and the drinks are delicious. The food is inventive and flavorful, with plenty of options for vegetarians.
The Wednesday all-day happy hour is a great deal, and the service is attentive. The hidden location adds to the speakeasy vibe of the place.
Highly recommended for those looking for a unique and enjoyable happy hour spot.
