Best of 22 happy hours in Chicago
"Happy Hours in Chicago" are a popular tradition among locals and visitors alike, offering discounted drinks and bites at bars and restaurants across the city. From River North to Wicker Park, these special deals create a lively atmosphere and opportunity to socialize after work or explore new venues. Experience Chicago's vibrant nightlife during "happy hours in Chicago."
- 1. Sparrow
- 2. Gilt Bar
- 3. The Walk In
- 4. Brando's Speakeasy
- 5. HighLine
- 6. The Press Room
- 7. LUXBAR
- 8. Bar Louie - Printers Row
- 9. AceBounce
- 10. The Franklin Room
- 11. Hopsmith Chicago
- 12. Logan 11 Bar & Kitchen
- 13. Fadó Irish Pub
- 14. Fat Cat
- 15. Bar Louie -University Village
- 16. 2Twenty2 Tavern
- 17. Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar
- 18. Franklin Tap
- 19. Easy Bar
- 20. City Social
- 21. Gold Coast Social
- 22. Truly, Oyster Bar
1. Sparrow
Cozy atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and creative cocktails

Sparrow is a fantastic cocktail bar with a sultry art deco atmosphere that has managed to thrive despite the challenges of the pandemic. During a recent visit, I met friends for a pre-dinner drink and was impressed by the cool decor, great lighting, and attentive service. The cocktail and spirits menu is extensive and features an enormous selection of rums, as well as plenty of other spirits. The simple daiquiri was expertly made, the Pisco sour was perfectly balanced, and the La Floridita, the house special, was a refreshing delight.
Sparrow may not offer food, but the cocktails more than make up for it. This hidden gem of a cocktail bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a well-made drink in a sophisticated atmosphere. The menu is fun to navigate, and the bartenders are knowledgeable and skilled. Whether you're a rum enthusiast or just looking for a great cocktail, Sparrow is the place to be. The bar's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and appeal, making it a must-visit destination in the Gold Coast.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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2. Gilt Bar
Elegant atmosphere with a lively bar scene

Gilt Bar offers a fantastic happy hour with excellent deals on sliders and cocktails. One standout option is the Old Fashioned, which comes highly recommended. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal location for unwinding after work.
During happy hour, Gilt Bar not only provides great food and drink deals but also boasts a cozy ambiance and friendly staff. It's a perfect place to enjoy after-work drinks, offering a comfortable setting that makes guests feel welcome.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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3. The Walk In
Cozy atmosphere with a spacious outdoor patio

The Walk In is a great place to visit for happy hour, offering a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. Mo and E, the hosts, are known for their exceptional warmth and friendliness, always greeting guests with a smile and making them feel at home. The bar is connected to Red Star Liquor store via a walk-in cooler door, and serves a variety of beer and cocktails in a loungey atmosphere. One of the standout features of The Walk In is the spacious patio, which is perfect for enjoying a drink or two on a nice day.
During happy hour, which runs from 5-8 pm Monday to Friday, guests can enjoy great deals on drinks at The Walk In. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day at work or catch up with friends over a few drinks, The Walk In is the perfect spot. The bar's convenient location, situated at 2727 N Milwaukee Ave and accessible via phone at 773-697-8726, makes it a convenient choice for anyone in the area. With its loungey atmosphere, great drinks, and friendly service, The Walk In is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and relaxed happy hour experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Fusion Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
4. Brando's Speakeasy
Prohibition-themed atmosphere with live jazz music

The individual arrived in Chicago with the purpose of replacing their passport, having searched online for late-night activities in the city on a random Tuesday. They stumbled upon a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere at a bar, arriving early enough to take advantage of the happy hour specials. The vibe was relaxed and not overly crowded, providing a nice setting for the evening.
The traveler, who had not eaten but had two Moscow mules, found the bartender to be exceptional, although they could not recall their name. The night was made even more memorable by Manny, the karaoke host, whose performance was exceptional. The individual left feeling grateful for the positive experience and expressed interest in returning the favor if the staff ever visited Nashville. The evening's events significantly improved the remainder of their trip.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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5. HighLine
Elegant rooftop bar with stunning city views and a retractable roof.

HighLine offers an excellent happy hour experience, featuring reasonably priced drinks and a vibrant atmosphere. During happy hour, which takes place Tuesday through Friday from 5pm to 7pm, guests can enjoy great deals on a variety of beverages while relaxing and unwinding in a lively setting.
Whether you're looking to socialize after work or just want to enjoy a drink at a great price, HighLine's happy hour is the perfect choice. With its friendly ambiance and affordable drink specials, it's the ideal place to kick back and enjoy a drink or two with friends or colleagues.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. The Press Room
Cozy and intimate atmosphere with a dedicated following among locals

The happy hour specials at this establishment are a major draw, with $8 martinis and old fashioneds being a particular favorite among patrons. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.
During happy hour, there are fresh and delicious $2 oysters available, which are a popular choice. Additionally, the wine selection is impressive, providing a great option for those looking to pair their oysters with a nice glass of wine.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
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7. LUXBAR
Elegant yet approachable atmosphere, located in the heart of Chicago's Gold Coast

Drinks at the establishment under review have received high praise from customers, who have consistently commented on their quality and taste. The wait time for drinks has been cited as a minor issue by some reviewers, but this has not detracted from their overall positive experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Bar Louie - Printers Row
Spacious patio seating, extensive drink menu, and sports viewing

Bar Louie's Printers Row location in Chicago offers a fantastic happy hour experience. During this time, visitors can enjoy well-priced drinks and appetizers that are sure to satisfy. This makes it an excellent choice for after-work drinks with colleagues or friends. The happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, between 4:0
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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9. AceBounce
Features 15 ping pong tables, a full-service bar, and DJs

This place offered a fun-filled experience! The atmosphere was excellent, with music that created a lively and entertaining ambiance. One of the highlights of the visit was playing ping pong for an hour and a half, which left us laughing and having a great time.
The happy hour at this place is highly recommended, earning a solid five-star rating. With affordably priced drinks and a variety of enjoyable activities, it's the perfect place to unwind and have a blast. Whether you're looking to socialize or just have a good time, this happy hour is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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10. The Franklin Room
Cozy atmosphere with a dimly lit, speakeasy-style setting

The establishment offers drink and food specials during specific times. On Sundays, there is a happy hour from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM where drinks are $1, including whiskey. There is also a daily happy hour from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM where drinks are discounted. During this time, oysters are available for $1.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Late Night
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11. Hopsmith Chicago
Spacious patio, cozy atmosphere, and daily specials

The happy hour specials at this location are an impressive value, with $5 call drinks and $15 pitchers available. This makes it an ideal spot to relax and unwind after work. Many people take advantage of these deals and enjoy spending time here with friends.
The staff at this establishment are known for being friendly and welcoming, which contributes to the overall positive atmosphere. In addition to the enjoyable company, the drink deals are another major draw for visitors. Whether you're looking to grab a drink after work or make an evening out of it with a group of friends, this is a great place to consider.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
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12. Logan 11 Bar & Kitchen
Live music on weekends, dog-friendly patio, and trivia nights

Logan 11 Bar & Kitchen in Chicago, IL is a local establishment that CFlo1 highly recommends. The bar and grill is located at the corner of California and Milwaukee and features a wide selection of beer on tap. The spacious interior includes a large bar and plenty of seating, with friendly and helpful service staff contributing to a great atmosphere.
Logan 11 Bar & Kitchen offers an awesome happy hour from 4:00-6:30 PM, making it an ideal spot for Friday night plans. According to CFlo1, the happy hour specials and overall quality of the bar make it worth a visit. The location is perfect for those looking to enjoy a casual drink or meal at a welcoming local pub.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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13. Fadó Irish Pub
Featuring a lively atmosphere with live music and sports screenings.

Fadó offers a fantastic happy hour experience with excellent drink specials and delicious appetizers. It's a great spot to spend some time, and I highly recommend checking it out. The atmosphere is lively, and the staff is friendly, making it the perfect place to unwind after work.
During happy hour at Fadó, you can enjoy great deals on drinks and delicious appetizers. The upbeat atmosphere and welcoming staff make it an ideal location to relax and socialize after work. Whether you're looking to try some new drinks or enjoy some tasty snacks, Fadó is the perfect spot to do so.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
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14. Fat Cat
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a great place to watch sports

Fat Cat is a popular destination in Chicago, IL, known for its stylish atmosphere, excellent music, diverse American cuisine, and extensive drink options. The restaurant features an innovative cocktail list and a wide selection of beer, making it a great spot for drinks and a meal. Fat Cat offers various deals throughout the week, including Monday's $7 burger and fries special, Wednesday's $7 Manhattans, Fat Cat's Old Fashioned, and Kentucky Mule, and Thursday's $7 Martinis.
The restaurant's Happy Hour is on Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, offering $7 Manhattans, Fat Cat's Old Fashioned, and Kentucky Mule. However, it is worth noting that these specials are not available on concert nights or holidays. Fat Cat is located at 4840 North Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640, and is a great spot to enjoy drinks and food in a swanky and entertaining environment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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15. Bar Louie -University Village
Spacious patio and lively atmosphere

The author enjoys visiting this place for happy hour, a time known for discounted drinks and a relaxed atmosphere. The staff is noted for their friendliness, contributing to the overall positive experience. A major draw during happy hour are the drink specials, which are described as "awesome," implying they offer great value and variety.
Additionally, the happy hour offers more than just affordable drinks. The appetizers are also half-priced, making it an ideal time to enjoy a variety of dishes at a lower cost. This deal is highlighted as a great value, offering customers a chance to sample a range of dishes they might not otherwise try.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Lunch
- Happy Hours
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16. 2Twenty2 Tavern
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, located in the heart of Chicago

2Twenty2 Tavern is a popular destination located in the heart of downtown Chicago, offering a variety of attractions for a great night out. It provides live music and a wide selection of drinks, including specialty cocktails and craft beers, making it an excellent choice for Happy Hour gatherings or late-night city adventures.
Happy hour at 2Twenty2 Tavern is particularly noteworthy, featuring a vast assortment of beers on tap and an array of handcrafted cocktails. Its extensive drink menu and lively atmosphere make it an ideal spot for social gatherings or unwinding after work.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Happy Hours
17. Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar
Intimate atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and focus on sustainable wines

Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar and an unnamed establishment both offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. Uvae's happy hour runs from Wednesday to Sunday, with different time slots for weekdays and weekends. On weekdays, it runs from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm, while on weekends, it starts earlier at 3:00 pm and also ends at 6:30 pm. The other establishment's happy hour is only available on weekdays and takes place between 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm.
In addition to drinks, Uvae Kitchen also offers food specials during their happy hour. They provide a variety of dishes at reduced prices, making it an excellent opportunity for customers to try out their menu. The atmosphere at Uvae is warm and inviting, with a selection of wines and cocktails that cater to various tastes. On the other hand, the details of the food and drinks offered at the other establishment during their happy hour are not specified.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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18. Franklin Tap
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and popular spot for sports fans

Franklin Tap offers a happy hour with discounted $5 appetizers available from 5:00pm to 10:00pm with any drink purchase, making it an excellent place to socialize with friends and take advantage of great deals. This spot is ideal for winding down after work and enjoying affordable yet tasty food and drink options.
During happy hour at Franklin Tap, customers can purchase appetizers for only $5 and enjoy any drink, making it a fantastic value. This venue is perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a long day, attracting groups of friends looking for a great place to hang out and enjoy reasonable prices.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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19. Easy Bar
Cozy and unpretentious atmosphere, friendly staff, and a great selection of music

Easy Bar is a popular neighborhood spot that attracts a lively crowd and offers a variety of amenities. The bar features a spacious patio, a hidden back bar, and a pool table for customers to enjoy. During the week, happy hour specials are available with half-off drinks, making it a great spot to relax and unwind after work. The drink selection is extensive, featuring a range of house cocktails as well as standard offerings.
Despite the popularity of the happy hour, the staff at Easy Bar provide attentive and friendly service, often remembering regular customers' orders. Bartenders are known for their expertise, creating craft cocktails with fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. While the bar can get busy, the atmosphere remains lively and welcoming, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. With its extensive drink menu, comfortable atmosphere, and friendly service, Easy Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of the local bar scene.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
20. City Social
Live music on weekends, Rotating daily specials, Communal tables and lounge area

Social City is an excellent choice for happy hour, offering reasonably priced drinks and appetizers in a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after work. The restaurant is known for its great vibe, attentive waitstaff, and fast service.
During happy hour, visitors can enjoy a selection of delicious appetizers and hot food, all served promptly by the attentive waitstaff. The drink selection is varied and on point, contributing to the overall positive experience of visitors. The atmosphere of Social City is ideal for socializing and enjoying a casual meal or drink.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
21. Gold Coast Social
Lively atmosphere, sports watching, rooftop bar

If you're looking for a great spot to relax after work, consider checking out the happy hour scene at this location. The drinks are affordably priced, making it an attractive option for those looking to unwind without breaking the bank. The atmosphere is bustling and energetic, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
Gold Coast Social's happy hour is not to be missed, especially for cocktail lovers. Their cocktails are a standout, and the staff is known for being friendly and attentive. Whether you're looking to catch up with friends or just enjoy a well-made drink after work, this place is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Gluten-Free
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
22. Truly, Oyster Bar
Features a wide variety of seafood flown in daily, raw bar, and elegant atmosphere

Yours Truly is a cocktail and wine bar located in the River North neighborhood, known for its focus on sports programming and American comfort food. During the weekdays, from 2:00pm to 7:00pm, the bar offers a happy hour special.
The happy hour at Yours Truly runs from Monday to Friday, between 2:00pm and 7:00pm. This is a perfect opportunity for guests to enjoy a variety of drinks and food at a discounted price while watching sports games and indulging in classic American dishes.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
- Social Gatherings
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