Best of 17 bars in Irving Park
Irving Park, a charming neighborhood in Chicago, is home to a variety of vibrant and unique bars. "Bars in Irving Park" offer something for everyone, whether you're looking for a cozy dive bar, a trendy cocktail lounge, or a lively sports bar. These watering holes are popular gathering spots for locals and visitors alike, providing a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse selection of drinks. With their friendly staff and inviting ambiance, "bars in Irving Park" are a must-visit for anyone exploring this picturesque Chicago neighborhood.
- 1. Leader Bar
- 2. Christina's Place
- 3. Lizard's Liquid Lounge
- 4. The Booze Hound
- 5. Paddy Mac's
- 6. The Cabin at Old Irving
- 7. Old Irving Brewing Co. in Irving Park
- 8. Brudder's Sports Bar
- 9. The Unforgettable Bar
- 10. Templestowe Pub Chicago in Irving Park
- 11. Live Wire Lounge
- 12. Hock Shop
- 13. 5th Province
- 14. Montrose Saloon
- 15. Angie's Tavern
- 16. Pete's Place in Irving Park
- 17. Fuller's Pub
1. Leader Bar
Spacious patio with fire pits and retractable roof

The service at the establishment is a mixed bag, with some customers reporting poor service while others have found the staff to be friendly and attentive. It's clear that the staff is able to provide great service, but there may be occasional inconsistencies.
The bar offers a range of reasonably priced, refreshing, and delicious cocktails made with quality liquor. Notable ingredients include Bittermen's Hellfire Habanero Shrub and Dobel Silver Tequila. The quality of the drinks is consistently high, with many customers praising the unique and delicious flavor combinations.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Christina's Place
Offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere

The speaker recently visited a Chicago bar, which they deem as one of the city's coolest spots, though they refrain from revealing why. The establishment's friendly bartender, Joe, created a welcoming atmosphere through conversation about baseball and giving the speaker free drinks. Despite occasional service issues, the bar's relaxed environment and late hours make it a local favorite, and the speaker encourages readers to experience it for themselves.
Christina's Place, a restaurant and bar, boasts a great atmosphere, appealing to both locals and visitors. It has a diverse alcohol selection and even permits customers to bring their own food. Although there have been issues with tipping, the enjoyable karaoke nights and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a night out, reminiscent of the 80s and 90s. The establishment's warm service is a significant draw, despite minor service flaws.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
3. Lizard's Liquid Lounge
live music performances, craft beers, and unique decor

Lizard's Liquid Lounge is a bar that has the potential to attract a diverse crowd, including lesbians, queer individuals, and straights. Its welcoming atmosphere and great offerings make it a promising spot for people from different communities to gather and socialize. The bar's potential extends beyond just catering to a specific group, as its appeal can reach a wider audience.
From the description provided, Lizard's Liquid Lounge appears to be a fantastic neighborhood bar. Its features and characteristics make it a place that would likely be frequented by locals, including the reviewer. The lounge's qualities and positive attributes make it a standout spot that is worth visiting, whether you live in the area or are passing through.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
4. The Booze Hound
Late-night menu, extensive drink selection, and friendly service

The Booze Hound is a welcoming hometown bar, often referred to as a "Cheers" bar due to its friendly staff and customers. This top-notch Chicago dive bar is unique in that it allows dogs inside, making it a popular spot for pet owners. The server at the bar takes great pride in her work, ensuring that every customer is well taken care of.
The bar features a large beer cooler with a good selection of beers, including a pyramid of bottles showcasing the "greatness" of their offerings. In addition, there is a smaller cooler with an impressive selection of craft beers for those looking for something a little more specialized. The back seating area offers darts and video bowling, adding to the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere of the bar.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
5. Paddy Mac's
Extensive beer selection and big-screen TVs

Paddy Mac's is a neighborhood bar that stands out for its drink options and inviting atmosphere. With plenty of television screens, it's a great place to catch up on sports while enjoying a drink. The bar also offers a diverse menu with numerous choices to satisfy different tastes and dietary preferences.
The food served at Paddy Mac's is impressive, particularly the bar food. One of the highlights is the tater tots, which are perfectly cooked and crispy. Additionally, the menu includes a veggie burger and panini, which are excellent options for vegetarians or those looking for a break from traditional bar fare. Overall, the food, service, and welcoming environment make Paddy Mac's an excellent choice for a night out with friends or family.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. The Cabin at Old Irving
Extensive wine list and craft cocktails

The drinks at this establishment are excellent and offer great value for the price. The tour given showcased wild and wonderful decor, adding to the overall atmosphere.
This is a remarkable place, made even more so by the caring actions of the owner. One instance witnessed involved the owner running out to stop traffic at a crosswalk, ensuring a timid elderly local could safely cross and continue with her shopping.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
7. Old Irving Brewing Co. in Irving Park
Spacious patio, pet-friendly, in-house brewed beers

Old Irving Brewery offers ample seating at the bar and dining hall, with a unique industrial factory ambiance featuring large brewery metal drums and brick walls. The beer selection is impressive, with a variety of options to suit different tastes. Special cocktails are also available for those who prefer mixed drinks.
The service at Old Irving Brewery is exceptional, with friendly and attentive servers who handle large groups with ease. Our server was quick to take our drink orders and maintained a fun and friendly atmosphere throughout our visit. The variety of beer and cocktails on offer impressed everyone in our group.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
8. Brudder's Sports Bar
Massive TVs for game-watching

Brudder's offers excellent specials on beer and food, making it a great spot for patrons. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, contributing to a positive experience. The bartenders are friendly and add to the overall enjoyment of the establishment. Based on the consistent quality and enjoyable ambiance, the speaker has become a regular customer and plans to continue visiting.
The speaker has been visiting Brudder's for many years and has always been satisfied. The atmosphere is consistently enjoyable, and the staff is friendly and contributes to the overall experience. Notably, the bar food is some of the best the speaker has ever had. This combination of factors has kept the speaker coming back to Brudder's for years.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
9. The Unforgettable Bar
Intimate Live Music Venue

The Unforgettable Lounge is a popular neighborhood tavern and bar, where people gather to make memories. With a fun and lively atmosphere, this is the place to be for great games, drinks, and company. The creative bartenders, including Stacy and Jen, are known for crafting unique and delicious drinks, such as the "caramel Russian."
Sports fans will particularly enjoy Sundays with Jen, who hosts a great viewing party. Tuesdays and Saturdays are also not to be missed, as they offer opportunities to catch up with the bartenders and enjoy the vibrant social scene. No matter when you stop by, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where everyone knows your name.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
10. Templestowe Pub Chicago in Irving Park
Friendly service, extensive drink menu, and cozy patio

The exterior of Brendan's Pub's sequel, located on Belmont and Broadway, still gives off a shady dive bar vibe, but once you enter, you'll notice the homey yet elegant ambiance created by Boston-native Steve Hill. From the decor to the atmosphere, every detail reflects Hill's personal touch.
Visitors rave about the locals, friendly staff, and inviting ambiance. The pub has managed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes patrons feel right at home. The staff, in particular, is praised for their excellent service, further enhancing the overall appealing atmosphere of the pub.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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11. Live Wire Lounge
Intimate live music venue with a friendly vibe

Live Wire Lounge is a well-liked venue, famous for its friendly service and excellent sound system. It offers a great variety of shows and features 80s horror and sci-fi movies on its TVs. Despite parking being a bit of a challenge, the bar has a variety of drink options, such as the easy-to-drink Buddington beer.
Fans who miss the Metal Shaker, a Norwegian black metal bar that used to be in this location, will quickly warm up to the new place. It has the same friendly, experienced bartender, a similar hard-rock atmosphere, and puts on live shows during the weekend that include metal, country, and rock music.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
12. Hock Shop
Offers unique musical finds in a nostalgic atmosphere

This establishment is a welcoming neighborhood bar, known for its long-time ownership and down-to-earth clientele. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. Even if you choose not to drink, the bar offers a comfortable space to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle.
As a friendly neighborhood bar, this establishment boasts great prices and good people. The bartenders are approachable and easy to talk to, adding to the overall positive experience. Whether you're looking to enjoy a casual drink or simply want to spend time in a friendly environment, this bar is the perfect spot.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
13. 5th Province
Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, warm atmosphere

The band was fantastic, delivering a lively and enjoyable performance. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the cold beer and the exceptional service of our bartender, Laurel. She contributed significantly to our memorable experience.
Located in a Chicago neighborhood, this snug bar is a well-kept secret. Every Thursday night, patrons are treated to live music, adding a special touch to the venue. Although the food selection is limited to typical bar fare, the bar more than makes up for it with an extensive variety of Irish beers, whiskey, and a welcoming ambiance.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
14. Montrose Saloon
Historic building, great food, vibrant events

Montrose Saloon is a well-loved neighborhood hangout on Chicago's north side, known for its inviting atmosphere and great outdoor space. It has earned a reputation for its attentive and welcoming staff who create a positive experience for patrons. The venue often features up-and-coming bands, providing a platform for new talent in the music scene.
A total of 157 consumers have given Montrose Saloon a rating of 4.72 out of 5, indicating high levels of satisfaction. A quick glance at some of the 109 reviews left by visitors reinforces this sentiment, with many praising the venue's lively ambiance, top-notch entertainment, and excellent service. It's clear that Montrose Saloon is a popular destination for those seeking a fun and memorable night out in Chicago.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
15. Angie's Tavern
Live music, craft beers, and a fireplace

Angie's bar is known for its excellent beer selection, with professional staff who are dedicated to providing a high level of service. The welcoming and pleasant atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a drink, and customers find the prices to be reasonable.
On the other hand, there is a shot-and-a-beer joint with a very different atmosphere. The bar is dark, smelly, and has a vibe that suggests it's mostly frequented by regulars. One of those regulars is even a three-legged dog that seems to call the bar home.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
16. Pete's Place in Irving Park
Indoor and outdoor seating with a lively atmosphere

Pete's Place is a neighborhood bar that has become one of my favorites in the city due to its great vibe, variety of drinks, and delicious pizza. I have been going there for about a year and it has been a great experience, until my most recent visit.
During my latest visit to Pete's Place, I went with a group of friends and was disappointed by the service. The bartender, Brock, was unresponsive and didn't provide the usual friendly and efficient service that I have come to expect from Pete's Place. This lack of service has made me hesitant to return.
However, under different circumstances and with a different bartender, I would still recommend Pete's Place as a great spot to watch a game and enjoy a delicious pizza with a variety of drink options. The atmosphere is enjoyable and it has been a positive experience overall, aside from the service during my most recent visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. Fuller's Pub
Featuring a wide selection of craft beers

This establishment is an excellent place to relax, enjoy a few beers, and listen to live music. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with staff who treat customers like family. It has a classic old-school Chicago neighborhood pub vibe, and despite being slightly divey, it manages to be cozy and inviting without being intimidating. The pub has a South Side Irish slant, which adds to its unique character.
The service is exceptional, and free buffet-style food is occasionally provided. Live music is a regular feature, especially on weekends. In summary, this pub is an ideal place to unwind, enjoy good food and drinks, and listen to great music in a friendly and welcoming environment. Its unique character and excellent service make it a standout destination for anyone looking for a classic Chicago pub experience.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Social Gatherings