Irish pubs are an essential part of Chicago's nightlife scene. They offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, hearty food, and a vast selection of drinks.
Whether you're looking for a pint of Guinness, a shot of Jameson, or some traditional Irish fare, there's no shortage of options in the Windy City.
Chicago's Irish pubs range from old-school joints that have been around for generations to trendy spots that put a modern twist on traditional Irish hospitality.
Some are located in the heart of downtown, while others are tucked away in the city's various neighborhoods. But regardless of where they are, all of Chicago's Irish pubs have one thing in common: they're the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends.
From live music to trivia nights and everything in between, there's always something happening at Chicago's Irish pubs.
And with St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, now's the perfect time to explore some of the city's best spots for Irish hospitality. So grab a pint, settle in, and get ready to discover the best Irish pubs in Chicago.
1. Chief O'Neill's
Chief O'Neill's is a classic Irish pub with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
The decorations and music add to the overall vibe of the place, and the outdoor garden is a great spot to relax with friends on a sunny day.
The food is delicious and reasonably priced, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
Whether you're looking for a casual brunch/lunch spot or a place to enjoy some drinks and live music, Chief O'Neill's is worth checking out.
2. Lady Gregory's Irish Bar & Restaurant
Lady Gregory's Irish Bar & Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The pub offers a wide selection of drinks and a unique twist on traditional Irish food.
The decor is stylish and upscale, with a library study room and huge picture windows that offer great views for people watching.
The expansive drink menu may take some time to navigate, but it's worth it. The food is a bit pricey, but the quality and taste make it worth the cost.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and prompt in their service. Whether you're in the mood for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Lady Gregory's has something for everyone.
3. Fado Irish Pub
Fado Irish Pub is an authentic Irish pub that offers a great atmosphere and excellent service. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making every visit a pleasant experience.
The menu features classic Irish pub food done really well, and the drinks are solid with a good selection of beers and cocktails.
The pub is a great spot to watch English premiere games and other sporting events. The live music after 9:30 is a highlight and adds to the overall vibe of the place.
The happy hour is a great deal and the perfect time to try out their signature cocktails. Fado Irish Pub is a must-visit for anyone looking for a traditional Irish pub experience.
4. O'Shaughnessy's Public House
O'Shaughnessy's Public House is a top-notch Irish pub that offers a cozy atmosphere with friendly servers.
Their beer selection is on point, and their Irish favorite foods are deliciously fresh. This family-oriented place is excellent for bigger parties and has plenty of room.
The pub is a popular spot for neighborhood folks to gather, and it features weekly live music.
The patio is great for summer nights, and the staff is top-notch. If you're looking for a genuine Irish experience, this is the place to go.
5. Galway Bay
Galway Bay is a hidden gem that offers more than meets the eye.
From the outside, it may look like just another dive bar, but step inside and you'll find a cozy atmosphere with an Irish flair. The bar staff are friendly and the prices are reasonable.
It's a great spot to catch up with friends while playing darts or pool. They even have old-school video games and board games to keep you entertained.
And, best of all, they offer free popcorn! If you're looking for a laid-back bar with a fun vibe, Galway Bay is definitely worth checking out.
6. Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant
If you're looking for an authentic Irish pub experience, look no further than Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant.
With a menu full of Irish dishes and bar food, this pub offers a cozy and modern atmosphere that is perfect for hanging out with friends or enjoying a meal with family.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the drinks are reasonably priced.
Whether you're in the mood for a pint of Guinness or something more unique, Kerryman has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this gem of a pub in the heart of the city.
7. Gracie O'Malley's
Gracie O'Malley's is an authentic Irish pub that offers a great atmosphere and friendly staff.
The bar serves a nice selection of drinks and the food is of high quality. The pub is also COVID conscious and safe.
Customers can enjoy playing darts and basketball while watching funny videos on the TV screens. The bar is a good spot to catch a sports game and meet other people.
On Thursdays, there's a Music Bingo Night which is a lot of fun. The staff is always accommodating and the service is excellent.
8. Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro is a cozy and inviting Irish pub with a great selection of beer and whiskey.
The food is well worth the slightly higher prices than a typical pub, with authentic Irish dishes like fish & chips and Guinness stew.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a family gathering. The event space upstairs is also fantastic for hosting weddings or other special occasions.
If you're looking for a laid-back spot for upscale Irish eats and a good drink, Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro is definitely worth checking out.
9. Shamrock Club
Shamrock Club is a classic Irish pub in the heart of the city.
The low-key local bar offers a friendly atmosphere, attentive staff, and a satisfying pub grub menu at affordable prices.
With a pool table and patio, it's a great spot to grab a pint and enjoy the company of friends.
10. 5th Province
The 5th Province is the perfect spot to get your Irish on. This Irish pub offers live music, friendly staff, and decent pub grub.
The atmosphere is fun and lively, making it a great place to grab a pint with friends.
The menu offers classic Irish dishes like fish and chips, and the service is fantastic. The live entertainment on Saturday evenings adds to the already enjoyable experience.
If you're looking for a fun night out with good food and a great atmosphere, the 5th Province is the place to be.
11. Fuller's Pub
Fuller's Pub is a classic neighborhood Irish pub that offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
It's a great place to hang out with friends, listen to live music, and enjoy some drinks. The bartenders are friendly, and the service is excellent.
The pub has an old-school Chicago vibe, and the south side Irish slant adds to its charm. Although the place could use a little updating, it's still a fun and laid-back spot.
Fuller's Pub is a great destination for those who are looking for a local dive bar with occasional live music.
12. Irish Nobleman Pub
Irish Nobleman Pub is a classic, cozy neighborhood Irish pub that offers traditional pub grub in a wood-paneled setting. With friendly staff and a great selection of beers on tap, it's the perfect spot to catch up with friends over a casual beer or enjoy a dinner with loved ones.
The menu is reasonably priced and consistently good, with the standout dish being the perfectly cooked burger with fresh toppings.
The pub is also a great place to watch sports with TVs everywhere and a fun trivia night. Don't forget to check out the elaborately decorated patio area too.
If you're looking for a neighborhood gem to grab a drink and some good food, Irish Nobleman Pub is definitely worth a visit.
13. Butch McGuire's
Butch McGuire's is a classic Irish pub that has been open since 1961.
The pub offers a great selection of beers and American pub food, including burgers and salads. The staff is friendly and the service is quick, even during busy times.
The ambiance is festive and the Christmas decorations are particularly impressive.
Sports fans may find it difficult to see the TV screens, but the pub is a great spot for a night out with friends or a quick stop for a drink. Butch McGuire's is a Chicago staple that should be on every pub-goer's list.
14. River Shannon
River Shannon is a charming Irish pub that has been serving customers since 1946. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, it's the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
The pub offers a great selection of beers and spirits, including Irish whiskeys. The woodwork and period decor create a unique ambiance that transports customers to a different era.
River Shannon is also dog-friendly, making it an excellent spot for pet owners to enjoy a drink with their furry friend.
Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a place to catch the game, River Shannon is a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
