Best Bars And Lounges in River West

46 restaurants available nearby

1. The Dawson

4.8

Exceptional(2723)

Price: Expensive

• Bar and lounge • River West

Booked 21 times today

Nestled in the bustling River West neighborhood of Chicago, The Dawson shines as a premier destination for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. Patrons rave about the "interesting cocktails" and the vast drink menu that complements the vibrant dining experience. The multi-level venue, complete with one of Chicago's finest patios, offers a "lively and lovely" atmosphere that is perfect for savoring their signature drinks like the spicy guava margarita, "Some Like it Hot." With glowing reviews highlighting the "fantastic food and service," The Dawson ensures a memorable outing with "bottomless mimosas" during their acclaimed burlesque brunch, making it a must-visit for those seeking a top-notch bar and lounge experience in the heart of the city.

2. Recess

4.5

Awesome(1464)

Price: Expensive

• Bar and lounge • West Loop

Booked 12 times today

Recess, nestled in Chicago’s bustling West Loop, is a standout for Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service with its vibrant and playful atmosphere. Described as an "adult playground," Recess is the ultimate spot for creatively fun and tasty drinks, making it a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Reviewers rave about their experience, noting the "great drinks" and "stellar service" that define the establishment. One guest celebrated the "best drinks in the city" at this lively locale. The combination of a large, inviting patio, innovative cocktails, and engaging games like giant Jenga and Connect 4, ensures every visit is memorable and exhilarating. Whether you're there for a sunny afternoon or a lively evening, Recess delivers an exceptional bar experience that's both enjoyable and uniquely Chicago.

A photo of City Hall - Chicago restaurant

3. City Hall - Chicago

(0)

Price: Moderate

• Bar and lounge • West Town

City Hall in Chicago's West Town is the place to be if you're looking for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service in a vibrant atmosphere. Known for its "stiff drinks" and a lively setting, this venue has quickly become a favorite for both locals and visitors. The bar scene here is acclaimed for its creativity and variety, offering everything from classic cocktails to unique creations that cater to all tastes. Guests rave about the "super cool spot" atmosphere and the quality of both the drinks and service, with one reviewer mentioning, "The drinks were strong and the menu is vast!" Whether you're in for a casual drink or a grand event, City Hall's bar and lounge area provides a perfect blend of fun and sophistication, making every visit a memorable one.

4. Kumiko

4.8

Exceptional(776)

Price: Very Expensive

• Bar and lounge • West Loop

Booked 13 times today

Kumiko, nestled in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, is a beacon of bar, lounge, and bottle service excellence, offering an unparalleled experience that blends Japanese-inspired mixology with exquisite culinary delights. Acclaimed for its quality and creativity, Kumiko features cocktails that are "life changing" and "perfectly balanced," according to glowing patron reviews. The ambiance is described as "romantic" and "luxurious," ideal for both spirited evenings out and intimate gatherings. Under the expert guidance of owner and bartender Julia Momosé, Kumiko has carved out a niche for itself with its innovative drink menu and attentive service, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a top-tier bar experience in the Midwest.

5. Bandit

4.7

Exceptional(1017)

Price: Moderate

• Bar and lounge • West Loop

Booked 15 times today

Bandit Is Located In The West Loop - Fulton Market Neighborhood Of Chicago. The Dineamic Hospitality Watering Hole Is A Polished-Casual Restaurant And Bar That Combines The Charm And Character Of A Local Neighborhood Bar, With The Sophistication And Quality Of An Upscale, Chef-Driven Restaurant. The Design Of The Restaurant Is A Juxtaposition Of Rustic Materials, Vintage Paraphernalia, And Polished Décor. It Is Lowbrow Meets High Style; Glamour Meets Grit With Warm Ambient Twinkle Lights, Combined With Edgy Neon Bar Signs Creating An Inviting Feel To The Restaurant. Nostalgic Elements Are Harmoniously Married To Elevated Attributes Throughout The Concept In Both Look And Feel, As Well As The Food And Drink Presentation.

6. Bordel

4.5

Awesome(33)

Price: Moderate

• Bar and lounge • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 16 times today

Bordel, a gem nestled in Chicago's vibrant Wicker Park, is a cocktail connoisseur's paradise. Known for its captivating Parisian speakeasy ambiance, Bordel promises an unforgettable experience with its high-quality, creative cocktails that perfectly complement the nightly cabaret shows. Patrons rave about the "delicious drinks" and the exceptional service, with one guest celebrating the "best burlesque show in town." The unique blend of burlesque, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails makes Bordel not just a bar but a destination. As one reviewer puts it, "It's all the sexy red room vibes you can handle," making every visit a spectacular adventure in Chicago's nightlife.

7. LUXBAR

4.6

Exceptional(2840)

Price: Moderate

• Bar and lounge • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 82 times today

LUXBAR, nestled in the vibrant Gold Coast/Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago, is celebrated for its exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. This quintessential American bar excels in creating seasonal and classic cocktails with a twist, boasting freshly pressed juices, premium ice, and house-made shrubs. Whiskey and bourbon aficionados will be delighted by the extensive selection, and the unique "Build Your Own Manhattan" menu truly sets LUXBAR apart. Patrons rave about the atmosphere and mixology expertise, with one guest exclaiming it offers the "best old fashions I’ve had" and another praising the "creative cocktails." Whether it's for a casual drink or a special occasion, LUXBAR offers a top-tier bar experience that consistently impresses with its quality and service.

8. Grapes & Grains

4.6

Exceptional(33)

Price: Expensive

• Bar and lounge • West Loop

Booked 12 times today

Grapes & Grains in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a standout destination for exceptional bar, lounge, and bottle service. Dubbed GG, this piano bar not only exudes a chic, vintage charm with its exposed brick and chesterfield couches, but also offers a top-tier drinking experience. Patrons rave about the "delicious cocktails" and the variety of "fantastic, nuanced cocktails," making it a "great date spot." Live music adds a layer of entertainment, with guests enjoying performances from the city's top talent, making every visit memorable. Reviewers consistently praise the atmosphere and the attentive, knowledgeable staff, highlighting GG as a "true hidden gem" for an evening out. Whether it's for a lively girls' night or a cozy evening, GG promises an unmatched ambiance and quality, ensuring every guest leaves with great memories.

A photo of Prime Bar at Nisos Prime restaurant

9. Prime Bar at Nisos Prime

4.3

Awesome(146)

Price: Moderate

• Bar and lounge • West Loop

Welcome to Prime Bar, our first floor Mediterranean eatery and cocktail bar at Nisos Prime. Timeless Mediterranean classics are reimagined with a touch of local nostalgia. Whether you join us for a casual comfort meal or for after-work libations, prepare to indulge in a delightful array of savory creations crafted cocktail concoctions. Enjoy alfresco dining at Prime Bar's exterior 40 person seasonal patio. Prime Bar is one of the three distinct dining experiences at Nisos Prime, a modern Mediterranean steakhouse located in the heart of the West Loop. Be sure to also join us at The Lounge, a hidden cocktail lounge on our second floor offering a wondrous care-free late night experience full of energy and music and transporting guests to the nightlife of the Mediterranean.

A photo of Torali - located at The Ritz Carlton, Chicago restaurant

10. Torali - located at The Ritz Carlton, Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(430)

Price: Moderate

• Bar and lounge • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 24 times today

Torali is more than a restaurant; it's a dining experience. Overlooking Chicago from the 12th floor, Torali offers a modern steakhouse with an Italian touch. Traditional antipasti and handmade pastas are featured alongside prime and dry-aged meats, and Old World-inspired cocktails and fine wines are best enjoyed in the copper-clad bar or the lounge-inspired rooftop.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

Q
Quinton
Alabama •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
I went for brunch. This was my first dining experience at the Dawson, and it was great! Amazing atmosphere, and all of the food was tasty. Before going, I did read that parking was difficult, but I didn’t have much trouble. Upon walking up to the restaurant, I also noticed a sign offering valet, so that will definitely be valuable next time
More info
The DawsonPrice: Expensive• American• River West
•
4.8
J
Jennifer
Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Celebrated a friends birthday at this restaurant to start the night. Food was delicious, definitely recommend City Dipper. EVERYONE finished their dishes. Prices were alright, expected in the city but made up for their taste. They brought out a sparkler/desert for my friend & was perfect!
More info
BanditPrice: Moderate• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• West Loop
•
4.7
M
Michelle
Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Such a great place to spend a Saturday brunch! I was celebrating my birthday and it was perfect. The games on the tables made it even more fun with everyone!
More info
RecessPrice: Expensive• American• West Loop
•
4.5
S
Stella
Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We had a beautiful evening. drinks were great. We didn’t eat piano was wonderful the pianist involved The crowd.
More info
Grapes & GrainsPrice: Expensive• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• West Loop
•
4.6

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River West

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Best Bars And Lounges in River West

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46 restaurants available nearby

1. The Dawson

2. Recess

3. City Hall - Chicago

4. Kumiko

5. Bandit

6. Bordel

7. LUXBAR

8. Grapes & Grains

9. Prime Bar at Nisos Prime

10. Torali - located at The Ritz Carlton, Chicago

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