Best of 22 cocktail bar in Lincoln Park
Welcome to the ultimate guide about the chic and sophisticated "cocktail bar in Lincoln Park." This vibrant destination, nestled in the heart of one of Chicago's most beloved neighborhoods, offers a wide array of expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere. Join us as we explore the charm of this "cocktail bar in Lincoln Park" and reveal why it's a must-visit for cocktail connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Explore the allure of "Lincoln Park's premium cocktail bar," an elegant retreat in one of Chicago's most popular neighborhoods. Delight in a curated selection of innovative concoctions and timeless classics at this stylish "bar in Lincoln Park" while immersing yourself in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Uncover the secrets that make this "Lincoln Park cocktail bar" a sought-after destination for locals and visitors alike!
- 1. King of Cups
- 2. Love Street
- 3. Pour Decisions Chicago in Lincoln Park
- 4. Delilah's
- 5. Front Bar
- 6. J9 Wine Bar
- 7. Lilly's Bar
- 8. The J. Parker
- 9. Rose's Lounge
- 10. The Arrogant Frog Bar
- 11. The Monkey's Paw
- 12. The Other Side Bar in Lincoln Park
- 13. Frank's Bar
- 14. Marquee Lounge
- 15. Brando's Lincoln Park in Lincoln Park
- 16. Hook and Ladder
- 17. Gaslight
- 18. The Galway Arms
- 19. The Red Lion Pub
- 20. Willow Room
- 21. Tapster Lincoln Park in Lincoln Park
- 22. aliveOne
1. King of Cups
Extensive wine list, knowledgeable staff, and intimate atmosphere

The ambiance at this venue is intimate, fun, and unique, making it a great choice for a date or a night out with friends. The decor features classic movie clips, music videos, and candlelit tables, creating a gothic and atmospheric vibe. However, the drinks are unremarkable and lack a clear direction. The tarot card readings, a popular feature, can result in long wait times which may disrupt the flow of the evening.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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2. Love Street
Warm and welcoming atmosphere

Love Street is a cozy corner bar located in a family-friendly neighborhood, known for its dog-walking residents. The bar is popular for its solid drink offerings, with all cocktails priced at 14 dollars and beers at 7 dollars. The ambiance of the bar is especially appealing to patrons, making it a welcoming and pleasant place to spend time.
The bartenders at Love Street are friendly and contribute to the bar's welcoming atmosphere. While the drinks are reliably good, nothing stands out as extraordinarily impressive or innovative. However, the overall experience of the bar is enhanced by its inviting ambiance and the friendly service of its staff. The bar is a popular choice for locals looking for a comfortable and affordable place to enjoy a drink.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Hidden Gems
3. Pour Decisions Chicago in Lincoln Park
Delicious Italian cuisine, modern atmosphere, and excellent service

Pour Decisions Chicago is a popular bar known for its large number of TVs, making it an ideal location for watching games while enjoying beer and cocktails. The food offered at the establishment, such as the fish and chips and Buffalo wrap, is satisfactory but not particularly noteworthy.
Upon arriving at Pour Decisions Chicago, the staff greeted my party and me warmly, even after we had already consumed a few drinks. The bartender was particularly friendly and humorous, quickly taking our orders.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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4. Delilah's
Handmade pasta and brick-oven pizzas in a cozy, art-filled space

Delilah's is a distinctive restaurant and bar, renowned for its expansive collection of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon. Its atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, with music that complements the overall enjoyable ambiance. The bar offers a rotating selection of beers, featuring Half-Acre Daisy Cutter, Goose Island Sophie, New Belgium La Folie, and more. This establishment has gained popularity as a post-show watering hole for punk acts passing through Chicago.
As a post-show hangout for touring punk acts, Delilah's attracts a diverse and lively crowd. It is particularly popular among whiskey and craft beer enthusiasts, who appreciate the extensive drink options and the chill atmosphere. The bar's rotating selection of beers ensures that there is always something new and exciting to try, and the impressive collection of whiskeys, scotches, and bourbons is sure to impress even the most discerning drinkers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
5. Front Bar
Spacious patio with retractable roof

The drink prices at this establishment are quite reasonable, offering a range of options that provide good value for money. The menu, while not the most extensive, offers sufficient variety and the quality of the food is acceptable for a quick snack. However, the bartenders' demeanor could be improved, possibly due to needing a wage increase. The bathrooms are a highlight, being well-maintained and clean.
This bar is known for its unique and well-crafted drinks at reasonable prices. The cocktails, specifically, are highly regarded for their quality. It is an excellent spot to enjoy a drink before or after a show. The drinks are the main attraction of the establishment, providing patrons with a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
6. J9 Wine Bar
Rare Wine Collection, Knowledgeable Staff, and Private Events

The J9 Wine Bar is an excellent spot for a cozy and comfortable evening. One of the highlights of this establishment is its well-curated cocktail bar section. The cocktail bar offers a variety of well-crafted drinks that are sure to satisfy any discerning palate. The atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after a long day, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed night out.
The cocktail bar at J9 Wine Bar is particularly noteworthy. It provides a delightful selection of cocktails that are sure to impress even the most seasoned cocktail connoisseurs. The bar's ambiance is perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable evening, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy a well-made drink.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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7. Lilly's Bar
Intimate live music events

Lilly's Bar is a unique and charming establishment, offering a laid-back, romantic atmosphere with live music on most nights. The bar stands out for its lack of typical distractions such as televisions, pool tables, darts, or gaming machines, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment.
The decor at Lilly's Bar is cozy and eclectic, with a fascinating history as a former horse stable from the 1800s. One of the bar's popular offerings is its excellent drinks selection, particularly the Long Island Iced Tea, which has been known to be quite tempting for some guests.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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8. The J. Parker
Stunning city views, retractable roof, cozy fire pits

The rooftop bar offers a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, featuring stunning panoramic views for guests to take in. Located in Chicago, the bar is a standout destination for its delicious cocktails and exceptional service. Visitors to the area are strongly encouraged to add this spot to their list of places to check out.
If you're looking for a great place to grab a drink and take in the sights, this rooftop bar is a perfect choice. With its delicious cocktails and stunning views of the Chicago skyline, it's easy to see why this bar is such a popular destination. The service is top-notch, ensuring that every guest has a memorable and enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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9. Rose's Lounge
Intimate live music setting

The bar in question offers a varied and enjoyable music selection, with a Jukebox that features classic hits from the likes of Sinatra, as well as local musicians performing classic rock tunes. It's a great spot to spend time with friends, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that includes a pool table and beer on tap.
As far as dive bars in Chicago go, this one is definitely worth a visit. With a laid-back and unpretentious vibe, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some quality time with friends. The bar staff are friendly and attentive, and the Jukebox and pool table provide plenty of entertainment. Whether you're a fan of classic rock or just looking for a fun night out, this bar is sure to deliver.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Happy Hours
10. The Arrogant Frog Bar
Exclusive wine selection, delicious French cuisine

The Arrogant Frog is a dog-friendly bar with a great neighborhood vibe and fantastic cocktails. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it an ideal spot for a casual night out. Ryan, the owner and bartender, is welcoming, friendly, kind, and easy to talk to, providing excellent service to patrons.
During a recent visit, a successful first date took place at The Arrogant Frog, and the location was perfect. It was quiet and spacious, with a great atmosphere and aesthetic. The drinks were delicious, and the service was top-notch. The bar's location is also convenient, making it a place that will be visited many times in the future. The Arrogant Frog has gained a new regular customer who cannot wait to return.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
11. The Monkey's Paw
Unique book-themed decor with a speakeasy vibe

The service at this establishment is exceptional, providing a satisfying dining experience. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for socializing or enjoying a meal. One of the highlights of the visit was the cocktail, which was skillfully made and tasted delicious.
The cocktail served was top-notch, with a wonderful balance of flavors. Its quality indicated the bartender's expertise and attention to detail. Although the other cocktail tried was also enjoyable, the first one stood out, making the visit all the more memorable. Both the service and cocktails were impressive, making it a place worth visiting again.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Happy Hours
12. The Other Side Bar in Lincoln Park
Live music performances, pool table, jukebox

The Other Side Bar is a relaxed and friendly cocktail bar, ideal for a casual night out. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the bar is well-known for its excellent service. The staff is friendly, attentive, and dedicated to providing a memorable experience at a reasonable price. Carlos, the owner, is a particular standout, known for his exceptional contributions to the bar's exceptional service.
In summary, The Other Side Bar is a top-notch cocktail bar with a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure guests have a great time, and Carlos, the owner, is a key contributor to the bar's success. If you're looking for a casual and enjoyable night out with great drinks and impeccable service, The Other Side Bar is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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13. Frank's Bar
Welcoming regulars and visitors with friendly yet professional service

The drink selection at this establishment is quite impressive, particularly for cocktail lovers. The options for beer are somewhat limited, but starting at 2:00 in the afternoon, the bar really comes alive with an extensive cocktail menu.
Cocktail enthusiasts will be delighted to know that this place really shines when it comes to cocktails, especially in the late night hours. While the beer selection may be lackluster, the cocktails more than make up for it, making it a must-visit destination for any cocktail aficionado looking for a great nightcap.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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14. Marquee Lounge
Rooftop lounge, handcrafted cocktails, live DJs

The Marquee is a popular neighborhood bar located in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Although I reside in Boston, I always make sure to stop by the Marquee whenever I visit my hometown. The bar has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a few drinks. Despite the crowds, the patrons are generally friendly and easy to get along with, which creates a welcoming and sociable environment.
The Marquee is not a pretentious or trendy bar, which is part of its charm. Instead, it is a place where people go to have a good time and engage in lively conversations. Moreover, the bar boasts a great selection of drinks, and the bartenders are known for their friendly and attentive service. During my visits to the Marquee, I have always found the staff to be courteous and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience of the bar. As a result, it has become my go-to spot for a drink whenever I am in Lincoln Park.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Happy Hours
15. Brando's Lincoln Park in Lincoln Park
Warm and welcoming atmosphere, handmade pasta

The cocktail lounge at Brando's in The Loop is a separate bar area designed to provide customers with a different experience from the main karaoke area. It offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, giving patrons another option for their night out.
The cocktail lounge features great drinks, and the bartenders are knowledgeable, friendly, and add to the overall positive atmosphere. Phil, in particular, is known for his great sense of humor, while Melissa is appreciated for being sweet and kind. Yoli is also a favorite among patrons for her unpredictable and awesome personality.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
16. Hook and Ladder
Firehouse theme, extensive beer selection.

Hook and Ladder is a cocktail bar located in Chicago that offers a wide variety of drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for a night out with friends. The ambiance is perfectly balanced, neither too loud nor too quiet, and the decor is industrial yet cozy.
The drink menu is extensive, featuring classic cocktails as well as signature drinks that are sure to impress. The bartenders are knowledgeable and skilled, able to make recommendations based on your preferences and create unique drinks on the spot. Additionally, Hook and Ladder often hosts events such as trivia nights and live music, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
17. Gaslight
Live music, lively atmosphere, and prohibition-era decor

Gaslight Bar & Grille is a popular neighborhood spot known for its creative cuisine, excellent drink options, and exceptional service. The restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, complete with a fantastic patio for outdoor dining. One satisfied customer, Ryan, recently visited and enjoyed a meal that included six boneless wings and a 4C Smash Burger.
According to Ryan, the food at Gaslight Bar & Grille is outstanding. The boneless wings were a hit, with their delicious flavor and juicy texture. The 4C Smash Burger was also a standout, featuring a perfect balance of flavors and ingredients. From the sounds of it, Ryan's meal was a definite success, making Gaslight Bar & Grille a restaurant well worth visiting for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
18. The Galway Arms
Offers a wide selection of Irish whiskeys and beers

The Galway Arms is a welcoming Irish pub, known for its excellent cocktail menu. It's an ideal spot to socialize and catch up with friends over drinks. The pub features live music that adds to its vibrant atmosphere.
During our visit, we were impressed with the top-notch cocktails and the lively bar area. The combination of great drinks and entertainment created a fantastic vibe that made our experience even more enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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19. The Red Lion Pub
Authentic British pub with a warm and inviting interior

The cocktail bar in Lincoln Park's Red Lion Pub is a must-visit for any cocktail lover. With a cozy atmosphere and top-notch drinks, it stands out as a great spot to spend an evening. The bar offers a wide selection of unique cocktails that are sure to satisfy any palate.
The knowledgeable bartenders at the Red Lion Pub's cocktail bar contribute to the overall experience. They are skilled at crafting high-quality drinks and can offer recommendations based on your preferences. The combination of a great atmosphere, delicious drinks, and expert bartenders make this cocktail bar a standout destination in Lincoln Park.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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20. Willow Room
Comfort food, craft cocktails, and friendly service

The new establishment in Lincoln Park has a unique and cool atmosphere, making it an ideal place for various occasions. It features a cozy basement bar, perfect for a romantic date night. The vintage-inspired cocktail menu is sure to impress, with a range of options that cater to different tastes.
During my visit, I tried their cocktails and food, and I was thoroughly impressed. The mussels and tagliolini were particularly noteworthy, and I would highly recommend them. Even when feeling under the weather, their Hot Toddy provided comfort and warmth. For those who prefer their drinks neat, the Old Fashioned came with a large cube that kept the drink cool without diluting it, making for an enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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21. Tapster Lincoln Park in Lincoln Park
Craft beers, house-made cuisine, and warm atmosphere

Tapster in Lincoln Park is a charming and comfortable establishment with a unique offering of cocktails on draft. While beer is typically the less expensive option at bars, Tapster's cocktails on draft provide a refreshing alternative for those who don't enjoy beer. Prices are reasonable, considering the draft cocktails eliminate the need for tipping the bartender.
Tapster Lincoln Park is a popular spot known for its fun atmosphere and wide selection of beers. The staff is friendly and helpful, with one staff member in particular deserving of recognition. The unique concept of the bar, offering beers and cocktails on draft, makes it a standout spot in the Lincoln Park area.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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22. aliveOne
Serving pizza by the slice and craft cocktails

The atmosphere in both bars is enjoyable, with the front bar being quieter and more relaxed. Alive One, in particular, stands out for its excellent jukebox, which is the best in the city.
In addition to the front bar, there is also a back room at the same establishment that can get quite lively. The back room has a dance floor and a DJ, making it a great place to let loose and have fun. Overall, both bars offer a great experience, but Alive One's exceptional jukebox sets it apart.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife