The Best Bar in Chicago, Illinois

Background Illustration for Nightlife

Chicago's entertainment varies from loud and loose to sophisticated and sedate. You'll find classic Chicago corner bars in most neighborhoods, along with trendier alternatives like wine bars and lounges. The strains of blues and jazz provide much of the backbeat to the city's groove, and an alternative country scene is flourishing. As far as dancing is concerned, take your pick from cavernous clubs to smaller spots with DJs spinning dance tunes; there's everything from hip-hop to swing. Wicker Park/Bucktown and River North have the hottest nightlife, but prime spots are spread throughout the city.

Shows usually begin at 9 pm; cover charges generally range from $3 to $20, depending on the day of the week (Friday and Saturday nights are the most expensive). The list of blues and jazz clubs includes several South Side locations: be cautious about transportation here late at night, because some of these neighborhoods can be unsafe. Drive your own car or ask the bartender to call you a cab.

Bungalow by Middlebrow

Fodor's choice

Bungalow by Middlebrow wears a lot of hats---brewery, natural winemaker, sourdough bread bakery, pizzaiolo, all-day neighborhood third place---and looks darned good in all of them. There’s a relaxed, come-one-come-all feeling to the dining room and patio here; indie folk types play mellow sets while friends sip wild ales and families linger over pizza. Fun one-off events, like block parties and collaborative pop-up dinners, are frequent; check in with the house Instagram account ( instagram.com/middle_brow) to find out what's upcoming.