Introduction
Craving a perfectly cooked burger and a cold craft beer after a long day exploring the Windy City? Or perhaps you’re seeking a vibrant atmosphere where you can unwind with friends and indulge in some seriously delicious eats? Forget the days of bland peanuts and stale pretzels; Chicago’s bar scene has undergone a delicious revolution, and the city now boasts a dazzling array of establishments serving up exceptional cuisine that rivals many restaurants. From elevated pub fare to globally inspired small plates, Chicago’s best bar food is a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered.
This guide is your key to unlocking the city’s hidden gastronomic gems, spotlighting the bars that have elevated bar food into an art form. We’re moving beyond the basic and exploring the spots that are serving up unforgettable dishes that will have you coming back for more. So, pull up a stool, grab a drink, and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Chicago’s best bar food scene. We’ll help you find the perfect place to satisfy your cravings, whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for an authentic Chicago experience.
Defining Great Chicago Bar Food
What exactly constitutes “great” bar food? It’s more than just convenience; it’s an experience. First and foremost, it begins with the ingredients. The best bar food in Chicago utilizes high-quality, often locally sourced, ingredients that elevate the dishes from simple snacks to culinary creations. Fresh produce, responsibly raised meats, and artisan cheeses all contribute to a superior flavor profile.
Creativity is also crucial. While classic bar staples like burgers and fries will always have a place on the menu, the bars that truly stand out are the ones that dare to experiment, incorporating unique flavor combinations and innovative cooking techniques. Perfect pairings with drinks are another essential element. The best bar food complements the bar’s beer, wine, and cocktail offerings, enhancing the overall dining experience. A spicy appetizer might pair perfectly with a crisp lager, while a rich, decadent dessert could be the ideal complement to a robust red wine.
Finally, the ambiance and value for money are also crucial factors. A great bar food experience is about more than just the food itself; it’s about the atmosphere, the service, and the overall vibe of the establishment. And, of course, it’s about getting good value for your money. The best bar food offers a delicious and satisfying meal at a reasonable price. With that in mind, here are some exceptional Chicago bars serving innovative and high-quality food.
Burgers, Fries, and the Art of Classic Comfort
Sometimes, all you crave is a classic done right. And these Chicago bars are masters of comfort food:
Au Cheval
No conversation about Chicago burgers is complete without Au Cheval. Their single cheeseburger (or double, if you’re feeling ambitious) is a masterpiece of simple ingredients: two thin patties, melted cheese, dijonnaise, pickles, and a perfectly toasted bun. The quality of the beef is exceptional, and the balance of flavors is perfect. The fries are also a must-order – crispy, golden, and seasoned to perfection.
Kuma’s Corner
If you’re looking for a burger with an edge, Kuma’s Corner is the place to go. Known for its heavy metal theme and its creative, often over-the-top burgers, Kuma’s is a Chicago institution. Each burger is named after a metal band and features a unique combination of toppings. Think chorizo, avocado, and chipotle mayo, or pulled pork, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce. The atmosphere is loud and energetic, and the burgers are guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
The Region
Located in the south side of Chicago, this bar showcases Chicago food such as a polish sausage or gyro but The Region’s burger is the real star. The smashed burger is simple but tastes outstanding. It is complemented by the dive bar feel.
Elevated Bites: Small Plates with Big Flavor
These spots prove that bar food can be sophisticated and exciting, offering shareable plates that are perfect for grazing:
The Purple Pig
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, The Purple Pig offers a delicious selection of small plates that are perfect for sharing. The menu features everything from charcuterie and cheeses to roasted bone marrow and crispy pig’s ears. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, and the wine list is extensive. It’s the perfect place to sample a variety of dishes and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.
Bar Siena
Known for its Italian-inspired cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, Bar Siena offers a delicious selection of cicchetti (Italian small plates) that are perfect for sharing. The menu features everything from arancini and polenta fries to truffle pizza and house-made pasta. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, and the cocktail list is creative and well-executed.
Ema
While Ema is technically a restaurant, its bar area is a popular spot for enjoying small plates and cocktails. The menu focuses on Mediterranean flavors, with dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and grilled halloumi. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the cocktails are creative and refreshing.
Global Flavors: A Taste of the World at Your Local Bar
Chicago’s culinary scene is incredibly diverse, and that’s reflected in its bar food offerings as well:
Parachute
This Korean-American restaurant also has a fantastic bar, offering creative cocktails and a small but mighty menu of Korean-inspired dishes. The bing bread, a fluffy steamed bun filled with various savory fillings, is a must-order. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, and the service is friendly and attentive.
The Drifter
Hidden beneath the Green Door Tavern, The Drifter is a speakeasy-style bar that offers a rotating menu of cocktails and small plates inspired by different cultures around the world. The menu changes daily, but you can always expect to find something interesting and delicious. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious, and the cocktails are expertly crafted.
Broken Shaker (at the Freehand Chicago)
This rooftop bar offers stunning city views and a creative menu of globally inspired cocktails and small plates. The menu features dishes like tacos, sliders, and ceviche, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and festive, and the views are unbeatable.
Hidden Gems: Underrated Spots with Standout Bites
Sometimes the best culinary experiences are found in the most unexpected places:
The Map Room
A haven for beer lovers, The Map Room also offers a surprisingly good menu of bar snacks. The menu features everything from gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and charcuterie boards to hearty soups and salads. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the beer selection is extensive. It’s the perfect place to relax with a good book and a cold beer.
Richard’s Bar
This no-frills dive bar might not be known for its fancy cocktails, but it offers a surprisingly delicious menu of classic bar snacks. The menu features everything from chili and hot dogs to burgers and fries. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, and the prices are unbeatable.
Old Town Ale House
A Chicago institution, the Old Town Ale House is known for its colorful regulars and its late-night atmosphere. The bar also offers a surprisingly good menu of bar snacks, including burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas. The atmosphere is lively and unpredictable, and the drinks are strong.
Late-Night Cravings: The Best Bar Food After Midnight
When those late-night munchies hit, these Chicago bars are ready to deliver:
Dimo’s Pizza
With several locations throughout the city, Dimo’s Pizza is a popular spot for late-night slices. The menu features a wide variety of creative and unconventional toppings, and the pizza is always hot and fresh.
The Wiener’s Circle
A Chicago institution, The Wiener’s Circle is known for its char-grilled hot dogs and its sassy staff. The restaurant is open late, and it’s the perfect place to grab a quick and satisfying bite after a night out. The “chocolate shake” isn’t what it sounds like, so be warned!
Coda di Volpe
Pizza, pasta, and Italian fare await you at Coda di Volpe. Open to 1 am, they are ready to serve up amazing late night plates.
Beyond the Food: Setting the Scene
The atmosphere of a bar is just as important as the food it serves. Are you looking for a lively sports bar where you can cheer on your favorite team while enjoying some wings and a beer? Or perhaps you prefer a cozy neighborhood pub where you can relax with friends and share a bottle of wine? Maybe a trendy cocktail lounge with ambient lighting and creative food bites is more your style? Chicago has it all. Each bar mentioned in this guide offers a unique atmosphere that complements its culinary offerings, creating an overall dining experience that is both enjoyable and memorable. Au Cheval is dimly lit and always busy. Kuma’s Corner features heavy metal music. The Purple Pig feels like you are in the Mediterranean. Consider what kind of vibe you are looking for when selecting your next food bar destination.
Important Information: Know Before You Go
To help you plan your culinary adventure, here’s some practical information for each bar mentioned in this guide:
Au Cheval: 800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: aucheval.com
Kuma’s Corner: Multiple locations. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: kumascorner.com
The Purple Pig: 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: thepurplepigchicago.com
Bar Siena: 832 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: barsiena.com
Ema: 74 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: emachicago.com
Parachute: 3500 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: parachuterestaurant.com
The Drifter: 676 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60610. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: thedrifterchicago.com
Broken Shaker (at the Freehand Chicago): 19 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: freehandhotels.com/chicago/broken-shaker
The Map Room: 1949 N Hoyne Ave, Chicago, IL 60647. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: maproom.com
Richard’s Bar: 491 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60654. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $. Easily accessible by public transportation. (No website)
Old Town Ale House: 219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $. Easily accessible by public transportation. (No website)
Dimo’s Pizza: Multiple locations. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: dimospizza.com
The Wiener’s Circle: 2622 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $. Easily accessible by public transportation. (No website)
The Region: 2056 W 59th St, Chicago, IL 60636. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $. Easily accessible by public transportation. (No website)
Coda di Volpe: 3335 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657. Open daily, hours vary. Price range: $$$. Easily accessible by public transportation. Website: codadivolpechicago.com
Your Chicago Bar Food Adventure Awaits
Chicago’s bar food scene is a vibrant and ever-evolving landscape, offering a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a classic burger, elevated small plates, or globally inspired cuisine, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings at one of the city’s many exceptional bars.
Don’t be afraid to explore, experiment, and discover your own favorite spots. Chicago’s best bar food is waiting to be discovered. Next time you’re looking for a delicious meal and a great drink in Chicago, skip the usual restaurant and head to one of these fantastic bars. You might just be surprised at what you find. After all, Chicago is not just a city of deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. It’s also home to a thriving bar food scene that’s just waiting to be explored.
