Top 21 themed bars in Wicker Park
Wicker Park, a dynamic and creative neighborhood in Chicago, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and unique dining experiences. Among its many offerings, themed bars in Wicker Park stand out as especially popular and intriguing. These establishments provide patrons with immersive atmospheres that transport them to different eras, locales, and imaginative realms, all while serving up delicious cocktails and delectable dishes. Let's delve into the enchanting world of themed bars in Wicker Park and discover what makes them so captivating. In Wicker Park, a diverse assortment of themed bars offers visitors an opportunity to explore varied settings and concepts, each designed to create a distinct and engaging ambiance. From the speakeasies of the Prohibition era to the tiki dens of the South Pacific, these themed watering holes cater to a range of tastes and preferences. As you wander the streets of Wicker Park, you may stumble upon a 1920s-style gin joint, hidden behind an unassuming bookcase or a covert entrance. Here, jazz music fills the air, and patrons don their finest flapper dresses and fedoras as they sip on craft cocktails concocted with house-made ingredients. The dimly lit, intimate setting fosters conversation and camaraderie, transporting guests back to a bygone era of illicit libations and underground revelry. Alternatively, you might find yourself in a mystical, otherworldly realm, where the décor and atmosphere evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment. At these fantasy-themed bars, you can lose yourself in an imaginative landscape of storybook characters, mythical creatures, and fantastical settings. With an array of whimsical cocktails and shareable plates inspired by popular fantasies, these themed bars offer a truly immersive and memorable experience. For those with a penchant for the exotic, Wicker Park's tiki bars are a must-visit. Adorned with rattan furniture, tiki torches, and lush tropical plants, these bars serve up potent concoctions in kitschy, oversized vessels. With a nod to Polynesian culture and a wink to mid-century nostalgia, tiki bars in Wicker Park provide a playful, escapist retreat from the everyday. In addition to their distinctive themes and atmospheres, themed bars in Wicker Park also pride themselves on their cocktail programs, which often feature house-made ingredients, craft spirits, and artisanal techniques. Skilled mixologists craft innovative concoctions that incorporate fresh juices, herbs, and infusions, ensuring that each drink is a delight for the senses. Moreover, these bars often offer extensive menus of small plates and shareable dishes, allowing patrons to enjoy a full dining experience alongside their carefully crafted libations. Ultimately, the allure of themed bars in Wicker Park lies in their ability to transport patrons to new and exciting worlds, all within the confines of a single evening. By creating immersive environments that engage the senses and spark the imagination, these establishments offer a one-of-a-kind escape from the ordinary. So, whether you're a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor seeking a memorable night out, indulging in the enchanting world of themed bars in Wicker Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
- 1. The Revel Room
- 2. Bangers & Lace Wicker Park
- 3. The Violet Hour
- 4. SWIG
- 5. The Up Room
- 6. Black Hole Bar
- 7. Cabana Club
- 8. Easy Bar
- 9. Blue Line Lounge & Grill in Wicker Park
- 10. Clever Coyote
- 11. Valedor
- 12. Estelle's Cafe & Lounge
- 13. Davenport's Piano Bar and Cabaret in Wicker Park
- 14. The Den Bar and Lounge in Wicker Park
- 15. Whiskey Business
- 16. Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink
- 17. Phyllis’ Musical Inn
- 18. The Cauldron Chicago
- 19. Standard Bar and Grill
- 20. DSTRKT Bar & Grill
- 21. Zakopane in Wicker Park
1. The Revel Room
Intimate atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails and live music
This location offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for winding down with a superb selection of drinks. A DJ provides enjoyable music, contributing to the unique themed bar experience. As the evening approaches, guests can enjoy live music, adding to the venue's vibrant energy.
The service in this themed bar is commendable, with staff providing attentive and efficient care to patrons. patrons will find the prices to be quite reasonable, making it an attractive spot for a night out without breaking the bank.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Bangers & Lace Wicker Park
Local beer focus, stylish decor, communal tables
Bangers & Lace has a cool atmosphere and offers delicious drinks. However, the service was just adequate, with staff appearing somewhat annoyed. Parking can be a challenge, as the area is primarily permitted for residents, so finding a spot on Division Street may require some luck.
As a beer bar that also provides tasty food, Bangers & Lace is an ideal place for having a drink and enjoying a snack or light meal. It's not the best option if you're extremely hungry and craving a large burger or substantial dish. Instead, consider it a spot for socializing over drinks and smaller bites.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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3. The Violet Hour
Hidden speakeasy-style bar
The Violet Hour in Wicker Park is a popular cocktail bar founded by the same team responsible for Avec and The Publican. The entrance is inconspicuous, and the establishment has a number of rules such as no baseball caps, Cosmopolitans, or bomb drinks. The interior design of the bar is often described as intimate, sultry, and sleek, featuring individual cocktail tables arranged in a large, dimly lit open space. However, some patrons found the low lighting level to be a drawback.
The Violet Hour's cocktail menu is a major draw, featuring an extensive array of creative and expertly crafted drinks. The bar staff is knowledgeable and skilled, often suggesting unique concoctions based on individual preferences. Despite its sophisticated atmosphere, the bar has a welcoming and unpretentious vibe. However, some reviewers noted that the small size of the bar can lead to crowded conditions and longer wait times during peak hours.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
4. SWIG
Welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu, and rotating local art displays.
SWIG is a cozy restaurant with a relaxed, dive bar atmosphere. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, and the talented chef serves delicious and generously portioned bar food. A friend and I visited after dinner, and we appreciated the quiet and moody ambiance, which was perfect for our casual catch-up.
The food at SWIG is a standout, with generous portions and bold flavors. We ordered a few dishes to share and were impressed by the quality of each one. The bartenders were also friendly and helpful, recommending drinks to complement our food. Despite the laid-back atmosphere, there is a sense of expertise and care that goes into every aspect of the SWIG experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
5. The Up Room
Outdoor fireplace, retractable roof, panoramic views of the city
The Up Room is a rooftop bar that is on the smaller side, but its themed decor and intimate setting make it a worthwhile visit. The bar offers a spectacular view and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. The Up Room is known for its cozy and dimly lit ambiance, making it a great spot to spend the evening.
The themed decor and friendly staff contribute to the bar's inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a night out. The Up Room's intimate setting is further enhanced by its low lighting, providing a warm and welcoming environment. The bar's view is another highlight, adding to its appeal and making it a popular destination for visitors.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Rooftop
6. Black Hole Bar
Unique decor, intimate ambiance, handcrafted cocktails
The Black Hole Bar is a well-known dive bar, recognized for its distinctive theme. The dim lighting and unusual decor create an otherworldly ambiance, transporting patrons to a unique space. The bar's atmosphere is consistently described as having a positive vibe, appealing to those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
Admiration for the Black Hole Bar extends to its music and overall atmosphere. Reviewers particularly appreciate the well-curated music selection, which complements the bar's ambiance and adds to its charm. The lively and welcoming atmosphere draws in patrons, creating a social and entertaining experience.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
7. Cabana Club
Spacious outdoor patio, exotic cocktails, themed events
Cabana Club is an ideal summer spot, offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu and stunning views of the Chicago skyline. The bar has a lively atmosphere, complete with attentive staff who ensure a great experience. Their drink selection is impressive, featuring refreshing options like white peach sangria, frozen rosé, and piña colada.
Cabana Club is perfect for various occasions, from a pre-dinner drink to a birthday celebration or a day of relaxation by the pool. With a chilled-out vibe, this themed bar caters to all your summer needs, providing a great time for guests.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Affordable Nightlife
8. Easy Bar
Cozy indoor space with a spacious outdoor patio
Easy Bar is a popular choice for those seeking a themed bar experience. The decor is unique and adds to the overall entertaining atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. One distinctive feature is the hidden back bar, which adds to the bar's appeal and distinguishes it from other establishments in the area.
The vibe at Easy Bar is consistently fun and laid-back, contributing to its status as a standout spot among local bars. The unique theme and hidden back bar create an inviting ambiance that attracts patrons looking for a memorable night out with friends.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
9. Blue Line Lounge & Grill in Wicker Park
Outdoor patio, pool table, wide selection of drinks
The lounge has a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere that differentiates it from other places I have visited. Its relatively quiet ambiance allows patrons to enjoy their drinks and food without the distractions and noise of a crowded space. The lounge also offers a selection of board games, adding to its cozy and laid-back atmosphere.
I was impressed with the quality of the food and cocktails at the lounge. The menu offered a variety of delicious and well-prepared dishes, and the cocktails were expertly mixed and presented. I appreciated the attention to detail in the presentation of the food and drinks, which added to the overall enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Happy Hours
10. Clever Coyote
Let's be honest, nothing says "summer vacation" like a tiki bar. Clever Coyote is located on the second floor of The Robey Hotel and they are doing everything they can to make this classic rock meets 90s nostalgia. Enjoy drinks like the Black Hole Sun (mezcal, tequila, roasted grapefruit syrup, lime and activated charcoal) or the Suckerpunch (a milk and gin punch clarified with pineapple and lime topped with a popsicle). via bar avec
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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11. Valedor
Handcrafted cocktails, artisan pizzas
Valedor is a unique cocktail bar located in the Chicago Wicker Park area, known for its sophisticated atmosphere without any snobbishness and welcoming ambiance without being mundane. The bar, previously the space of Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea, has recently been transformed into a Mexican-Japanese fusion cocktail bar, offering a new and exciting experience for patrons.
The dramatic new bar features moody low lighting and petite tables, creating an intimate and cozy atmosphere.Valedor's fusion of Mexican and Japanese influences is evident in its cocktail menu, setting it apart from other bars in the area and providing a unique experience for visitors. If you're in the Wicker Park area, stopping by Valedor is a must to fully appreciate the city's bar scene.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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12. Estelle's Cafe & Lounge
Live music performances, unique decor, community events
Estelle's is a beloved bar in the city, known for its exceptional happy hour and late-night kitchen operation. It has been a popular destination since 1999, offering an extensive menu of food and drinks, and providing entertainment in the form of music and movies on their TVs. The bar's atmosphere is cozy and dimly lit, creating a divey ambiance that adds to its character.
Located in Wicker Park, Estelle's is open until 4am every day, except for Saturdays when it remains open until 5am. The menu features a variety of options, such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. Whether it's for happy hour, a late-night meal, or a place to watch a movie or listen to music, Estelle's has become a go-to spot for many city dwellers for over two decades.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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13. Davenport's Piano Bar and Cabaret in Wicker Park
Exclusive performances from renowned artists
Davenport's is a popular destination for karaoke enthusiasts and cabaret performances. The atmosphere is lively and entertaining, making it a great place to spend an evening. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that guests have a positive experience.
In addition to the karaoke and cabaret offerings, Davenport's also has a well-stocked bar with an excellent selection of beverages. The combination of great entertainment and high-quality drinks makes it a well-rounded destination for a night out. Whether you're looking to sing your heart out or enjoy a cabaret performance, Davenport's is definitely worth checking out. With its welcoming staff and top-notch offerings, it's no wonder that patrons like me can't wait to return.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
14. The Den Bar and Lounge in Wicker Park
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
15. Whiskey Business
Extensive whiskey selection and unique twists on classic dishes
Themed nights offer a unique and enjoyable experience, especially when they focus on past decades like the 80s and 90s. These nostalgic events can create a fun and lively atmosphere that is sure to entertain. At Whiskey Business, themed pop-ups are a popular feature. Guests can enjoy the creativity and attention to detail that goes into each event, making for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Whiskey Business, in particular, is known for its imaginative and well-executed themed pop-ups. The level of detail and care that goes into each event is truly impressive, making for an unforgettable experience. The 80s and 90s themed nights are a standout, as they allow guests to relive the fun and excitement of those decades. Whether you're a fan of the music, fashion, or pop culture of the time, these themed events are sure to delight.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
16. Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink
Interactive ordering system, gadget-inspired cocktails
Machine's themed bar is a must-visit for cocktail lovers. The drinks are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making for a truly immersive experience. The bar's chic and modern decor adds to its appeal, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that's perfect for a night out.
At Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink, the bar experience is taken to the next level. In addition to its innovative cocktail program, the venue features an in-house flower shop, further enhancing its unique ambiance. Every detail is carefully designed to surprise and delight, from the presentation of the drinks to the overall decor and ambiance.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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17. Phyllis’ Musical Inn
Offers a unique experience of live jazz music in a historic setting
Phyllis' Musical Inn may not be visually appealing from the exterior, but inside, it offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere. During a casual stroll, the sound of music caught our attention, leading us to discover a band playing to a semi-filled room. The bartenders were friendly, and the beer was affordable, making it a more attractive option than the pricier places in Wicker Park.
Phyllis’ Musical Inn is famous for its historic live music venue, featuring a well-worn wooden interior adorned with vibrant murals and black and white wallpaper. One of the city's most intriguing beer gardens is also part of the establishment. The combination of these elements creates an inviting and unpretentious ambiance that appeals to patrons.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
18. The Cauldron Chicago
In-house brewed beers, creative twists on comfort food
The Cauldron Chicago is an enjoyable venue that provides a memorable experience, perfect for a date or anyone who enjoys magical things. The interior design and decor are well-done, creating a captivating ambiance for guests.
This restaurant offers a unique concept, taking place in a former bank vault, which adds to the immersive atmosphere. The Cauldron Chicago is a great place to visit for a special and unforgettable experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
19. Standard Bar and Grill
Featuring daily drink specials and a relaxed atmosphere
This place is great for hosting themed parties, providing an energetic and engaging atmosphere for all attendees. The lively vibe is particularly enjoyable during themed nights, where specific themes adds an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. Sports fans will be pleased to know that the sports bar ambiance is perfect for watching games, making it an ideal spot to catch all the action.
Themed events and game days are highlights at this venue, offering patrons a fun and engaging atmosphere. The sports bar setting is especially well-suited for sports enthusiasts, making it a popular destination for watching and cheering on their favorite teams. Overall, the lively energy and engaging theme nights make this a must-visit location.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
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20. DSTRKT Bar & Grill
Chic atmosphere and gourmet bar bites
DSTRKT Bar & Grill is known for its popular themed nights that offer a great time for all attendees. The bar and grill hosts a variety of events, ranging from costume parties to music-themed nights, all of which are well-executed and enjoyable. One visitor particularly enjoys the themed events, citing the lively atmosphere and the additional layer of fun provided by the themes.
The themes at DSTRKT Bar & Grill add an exciting dimension to the overall experience. During these events, the atmosphere is consistently energetic and engaging. The visitor finds the themes to be a highlight of the experience, making the night out even more entertaining and memorable.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
21. Zakopane in Wicker Park
Authentic Polish dishes, charming atmosphere
The owner of the establishment, Chester, is a standout individual. During a night of bar-hopping, Chester recommended a top-notch Polish vodka with a bison on the bottle and bison grass flavoring. His no-nonsense, straightforward approach to service made for a relaxing and enjoyable experience, reminiscent of the simpler times when Wicker Park was a working-class neighborhood.
This establishment offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for savoring Polish beer or vodka. The owner, Chester, contributes to this atmosphere with his unpretentious and down-to-earth demeanor. The bar harkens back to the days when Wicker Park was an authentic, blue-collar neighborhood, providing patrons with a refreshing escape from the flashy and trendy bars that now populate the area.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems