Introduction
There’s a common assumption about bar food: soggy fries swimming in grease, limp chicken wings clinging to a sad excuse for a dipping sauce, and maybe, if you’re lucky, a pre-packaged quesadilla microwaved to lukewarm perfection. While those archetypes may persist in some corners of the culinary world, Chicago is rewriting the script. Forget everything you think you know about bar food because the Windy City is serving up dishes that are seriously crave-worthy, innovative, and often, surprisingly sophisticated. Chicago’s bar scene has evolved into a destination for not just great drinks, but also for phenomenal eats. This isn’t just about soaking up alcohol; it’s about experiencing a fantastic meal in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.
Chicago offers more than just deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. The bars here are slinging everything from gourmet burgers and globally inspired tacos to delicate dumplings and innovative vegetarian plates. It’s a food scene as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. So, ditch the dinner reservations and prepare to be amazed as we delve into some of the absolute best bar food Chicago has to offer. Our criteria for “best” extends beyond simple sustenance. We’re looking for flavor that explodes on your palate, the highest quality ingredients prepared with care, creative dishes that push boundaries, a sense of value for your hard-earned dollars, and, of course, an atmosphere that complements the food and makes you want to linger longer.
Elevated Classics
Some nights, you just want a familiar favorite, something comforting and satisfying. These are the bars that understand that craving and take those classic dishes to a whole new level. Forget the processed cheese and generic condiments. These establishments are all about high-quality ingredients, expertly executed cooking techniques, and clever twists that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about bar staples. They have the best bar food in Chicago if you are looking for a familiar flavor.
One such gem is The Publican, located in Fulton Market. While renowned for its oysters and extensive beer list, The Publican’s food menu is a force to be reckoned with. A must-try is their farmhouse burger. This isn’t your average pub patty; it’s a juicy blend of locally sourced beef, topped with a creamy aioli, aged cheddar, and crispy bacon on a perfectly toasted brioche bun. What makes it great? The beef is incredibly flavorful, the aioli adds a rich tang, and the bacon provides a satisfying salty crunch. Every element is perfectly balanced, creating a burger that is both familiar and utterly unforgettable. The atmosphere, reminiscent of a European beer hall, adds to the overall experience, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal and a selection of craft beers.
Another standout is Au Cheval, a West Loop diner that also boasts an exceptional bar. While its legendary burger often steals the spotlight, don’t overlook their other offerings. The roasted marrow bones are a decadent indulgence, served with grilled bread and a parsley salad to cut through the richness. This dish is a testament to Au Cheval’s commitment to quality ingredients and simple, yet impactful, flavors. The marrow is incredibly buttery and flavorful, and the grilled bread provides the perfect vessel for savoring every last morsel. The lively, bustling atmosphere adds to the overall appeal, making it a great place to enjoy a sophisticated take on classic comfort food.
Finally, consider RPM Italian, where classic Italian dishes are elevated with a focus on premium ingredients and inventive preparation. Their bar menu is no exception. The truffle garlic bread is an absolute must-order, featuring crispy focaccia bread infused with aromatic truffle oil, roasted garlic, and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect combination of savory, garlicky, and earthy flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to a glass of wine or a handcrafted cocktail. The sleek and stylish ambiance adds to the overall experience, making RPM Italian a great choice for a more upscale bar food experience.
Globally Inspired Bites
Chicago is a melting pot of cultures, and that culinary diversity is beautifully reflected in its bar food scene. Forget the predictable American fare; these bars are taking your taste buds on a trip around the world with innovative and flavorful dishes inspired by cuisines from across the globe. Experience some of the best bar food in Chicago from all over the world.
A prime example is Broken Shaker, a rooftop bar located at the Freehand Chicago hotel. Their menu is a vibrant celebration of global flavors, with dishes like the Cubano sandwich and the Korean fried chicken sliders. These sliders are truly addictive, featuring crispy, juicy chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce, served on mini brioche buns with a tangy slaw. What makes them so great? The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory is perfectly executed, and the texture of the crispy chicken against the soft bun is simply divine. The rooftop setting offers stunning city views, making it a perfect spot to enjoy these globally inspired bites with a refreshing cocktail.
Another notable spot is Mott St, a Wicker Park restaurant and bar with a focus on Asian-inspired cuisine. Their “everything wings” are legendary, coated in a complex and umami-rich blend of spices and sauces. These wings are far from your typical Buffalo wings; they’re a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. What makes them so great? The depth of flavor is incredible, and the crispy texture is perfectly satisfying. The dimly lit, intimate atmosphere adds to the overall experience, making Mott St a great place to share these wings with friends over drinks.
Finally, explore The Violet Hour, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Wicker Park. While known for its expertly crafted cocktails, The Violet Hour also offers a selection of small plates with global influences. The empanadas are a standout, filled with a flavorful blend of spiced meat or vegetables. These empanadas are the perfect size for sharing and offer a taste of Latin American cuisine in a sophisticated setting. What makes them great? The filling is incredibly flavorful, and the pastry is perfectly flaky. The speakeasy ambiance adds to the overall mystique, making The Violet Hour a unique and memorable bar food destination.
Pizza Powerhouses
Chicago and pizza are practically synonymous, and many of the city’s best pizza joints also happen to be fantastic bars. Forget the delivery chains; these bars are serving up pizzas that are handcrafted with love and loaded with fresh, high-quality ingredients. When it comes to the best bar food in Chicago, you have to include some pizza.
One such institution is Piece Brewery and Pizzeria, located in Wicker Park. Their New Haven-style pizzas are thin-crust masterpieces, with a slightly charred crust and a wide range of creative toppings. A must-try is the white clam pizza, topped with fresh clams, garlic, oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil. This pizza is a testament to Piece’s commitment to quality ingredients and simple, yet flavorful, combinations. The clams are fresh and briny, and the garlic and oregano add a pungent aroma. The brewery also boasts a wide selection of craft beers, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious pizza with a cold pint.
Another standout is Parlor Pizza Bar, with multiple locations throughout the city. Their wood-fired pizzas are known for their crispy crusts and inventive toppings. The honey butter pizza is a customer favorite, topped with creamy ricotta cheese, sweet honey, and a drizzle of butter. This pizza is a surprisingly delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The crispy crust provides the perfect textural contrast to the creamy ricotta and sweet honey. Parlor Pizza Bar also offers a lively and social atmosphere, making it a great place to gather with friends and enjoy a pizza or two.
Burger Bliss
Sometimes, nothing satisfies quite like a perfectly cooked burger. These Chicago bars have mastered the art of the burger, crafting juicy, flavorful patties topped with creative combinations of ingredients. If you’re looking for the best bar food in Chicago and you love burgers, these are the places to go.
Consider Kuma’s Corner, a heavy metal-themed bar with multiple locations known for its over-the-top burgers. The burgers here are massive, piled high with toppings like pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, and even entire sandwiches. One of the most popular options is the Kuma burger, topped with bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a fried egg. The quality of the beef is excellent and toppings are always fresh. The bar also features a great selection of craft beers and a lively, rock-and-roll atmosphere.
Another great burger spot is The Loyalist. Its burger is simple in concept: two thin patties, cheese, pickles, onions, and a special sauce. However, the quality of each ingredient makes it something truly special. The bar’s cocktail program is top-notch.
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Gone are the days when vegetarian and vegan options were an afterthought on bar menus. Chicago’s bars are embracing plant-based cuisine with creative and flavorful dishes that will satisfy even the most dedicated carnivores. Some of the best bar food in Chicago can be meat free.
One such spot is Handlebar, a Wicker Park bar with a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu. Their vegan nachos are a crowd favorite, loaded with black beans, vegan cheese, guacamole, salsa, and pickled jalapeños. These nachos are incredibly satisfying and flavorful, proving that you don’t need meat to create a truly delicious dish. The bar also offers a wide selection of craft beers and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Another excellent choice is The Chicago Diner, a Lakeview institution with a fully vegetarian and vegan menu. Their vegan Reuben sandwich is a classic, featuring corned beef seitan, sauerkraut, vegan cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread. This sandwich is a testament to The Chicago Diner’s ability to create plant-based versions of classic comfort food dishes. The seitan is incredibly flavorful and the sandwich is packed with tangy and savory flavors.
Honorable Mentions
While we’ve highlighted some of the best bar food spots in Chicago, there are many other establishments worth checking out. For fantastic fried chicken, hit up Parson’s Chicken & Fish. For a great selection of empanadas, try 90 Miles Cuban Cafe. And for some truly exceptional BBQ, make sure to check out Smoque BBQ.
Tips for Enjoying Chicago’s Bar Food Scene
Exploring Chicago’s bar food scene can be an adventure. Here are some tips to make the most of it:
- Happy Hour is Your Friend: Many bars offer enticing happy hour deals on both drinks and food. Take advantage of these specials to sample a wider variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
- Check the Menu Online: Before heading to a bar, take a look at their online menu to get an idea of what they offer and what their price range is. This will help you narrow down your choices and ensure that there’s something for everyone in your group.
- Be Open to Trying New Things: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try dishes that you’ve never had before. Chicago’s bar food scene is all about innovation and creativity, so you’re likely to discover some new favorites.
- Ask About Pairings: Many bars have knowledgeable bartenders who can recommend the perfect beer or cocktail to complement your food. Don’t hesitate to ask for their suggestions.
Conclusion
Chicago’s bar food scene is a testament to the city’s culinary dynamism. It’s a place where innovation meets tradition, where high-quality ingredients are transformed into crave-worthy dishes, and where a relaxed atmosphere enhances the overall dining experience. From elevated classics to globally inspired bites and vegetarian delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, skip the formal restaurant and head to one of Chicago’s many fantastic bars. Grab a friend, order a drink, and discover your new favorite Chicago bar food spot! The best bar food in Chicago is waiting to be discovered.
