Lincoln Park, Chicago, boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you're seeking a cozy pub, a lively cocktail lounge, or a trendy spot for craft beer, this neighborhood has it all. This guide highlights 19 of the best bars in Lincoln Park, ensuring you find the perfect place for your next night out. We've carefully curated this list to consider ambiance, drink quality, and overall experience, offering a range of options to suit everyone.
Dive Bars & Classic Pubs: Lincoln Park's Casual Charm
These establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual drink with friends or a quiet nightcap.
1. The North Pond
- Ambiance: Classic, upscale, romantic.
- Drinks: Extensive wine list, creative cocktails.
- Vibe: Sophisticated yet welcoming. Perfect for a date night or celebratory drinks.
2. The Irish Oak
- Ambiance: Traditional Irish pub, cozy and lively.
- Drinks: Wide selection of beers on tap, including many Irish options.
- Vibe: Energetic, social, great for groups. Known for their lively atmosphere, especially on game days.
3. The J. Parker
- Ambiance: Rooftop bar with stunning city views.
- Drinks: Creative cocktails, extensive wine list, beer selection.
- Vibe: Chic, trendy, ideal for a special occasion or impressive views.
Craft Beer Havens: Lincoln Park's Hoppy Delights
Lincoln Park is a haven for craft beer lovers. These bars offer a wide selection of local and international brews.
4. Hopleaf Bar
- Ambiance: Cozy, dimly lit, classic beer hall feel.
- Drinks: Extensive beer list, constantly rotating selections, knowledgeable staff.
- Vibe: Relaxed, convivial, perfect for beer enthusiasts.
5. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria
- Ambiance: Casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Great for a casual gathering.
- Drinks: House-brewed beers, pizza, and other pub food.
- Vibe: Lively, social, suitable for all ages (earlier in the evening).
6. The Violet Hour
- Ambiance: Speakeasy-style bar, sophisticated and intimate.
- Drinks: Highly creative and expertly crafted cocktails.
- Vibe: Upscale, romantic, ideal for a special occasion.
Cocktail Lounges & Upscale Bars: Lincoln Park's Refined Scene
For those seeking a more elevated experience, these bars offer sophisticated cocktails and a refined ambiance.
7. Estereo
- Ambiance: Stylish, dimly lit, Latin American-inspired.
- Drinks: Unique cocktails featuring Latin American spirits and flavors.
- Vibe: Trendy, sophisticated, ideal for a date night or a night out with friends.
8. RPM Italian
- Ambiance: Upscale Italian restaurant with a stylish bar.
- Drinks: Classic and creative cocktails, extensive wine list.
- Vibe: Elegant, sophisticated, perfect for a special occasion or a pre-dinner drink.
9. LondonHouse Chicago
- Ambiance: Rooftop bar with panoramic city views (also has a great downstairs bar).
- Drinks: Signature cocktails, extensive wine list, selection of beers.
- Vibe: Luxurious, stylish, offers stunning city views.
Unique & Thematic Bars: Lincoln Park's Quirky Gems
These establishments offer unique experiences beyond the typical bar setting.
10. The Kingston Mines
- Ambiance: Legendary blues club with a lively atmosphere.
- Drinks: Classic cocktails and beers.
- Vibe: Energetic, musical, perfect for live music lovers.
11. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
- Ambiance: Historic jazz club with a speakeasy vibe.
- Drinks: Classic cocktails, extensive beer list.
- Vibe: Intimate, atmospheric, perfect for live jazz music enthusiasts.
12. Simon's Tavern
- Ambiance: Neighborhood tavern with a friendly, local feel.
- Drinks: Classic cocktails and beers.
- Vibe: Relaxed, comfortable, perfect for a casual drink with friends.
Wine Bars & Lounges: Lincoln Park's Grape Escape
For wine lovers, these bars offer a curated selection of wines and a relaxed atmosphere.
13. Cork & Kerry
- Ambiance: Lively Irish pub with a great wine selection.
- Drinks: Wide variety of wines, beers, and Irish spirits.
- Vibe: Social, lively, perfect for groups or a casual night out.
14. Bin 36
- Ambiance: Upscale wine bar with a sophisticated ambiance.
- Drinks: Extensive wine list, featuring both domestic and international wines.
- Vibe: Chic, refined, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic night out.
Sports Bars & Game Day Destinations: Lincoln Park's Game On!
These establishments offer the perfect atmosphere for catching the game with friends.
15. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
- Ambiance: Lively sports bar with a fun, themed atmosphere.
- Drinks: Wide selection of beers, cocktails, and wine.
- Vibe: Energetic, social, perfect for watching sports with friends.
16. Yard House
- Ambiance: Large, spacious sports bar with numerous screens.
- Drinks: Extensive selection of beers on tap, cocktails, and wine.
- Vibe: Lively, social, suitable for groups and game-day gatherings.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Discover Lincoln Park's Underrated Spots
These bars might be less well-known, but they offer unique experiences and a welcoming atmosphere.
17. The Owl
- Ambiance: Cozy, intimate, tucked-away gem.
- Drinks: Classic cocktails and a curated beer selection.
- Vibe: Relaxed, laid-back, perfect for a quiet night out.
18. Andros Taverna
- Ambiance: Lively, vibrant, Greek-inspired tavern.
- Drinks: Unique cocktails, Greek wines, and beers.
- Vibe: Energetic, social, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
19. Big Star
- Ambiance: Lively, casual, taco bar with a great patio.
- Drinks: Extensive tequila and mezcal selection, margaritas, and beers.
- Vibe: Fun, festive, great for a casual night out.
This list provides a starting point for exploring the vibrant bar scene in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Remember to check each bar's website for hours, specials, and reservation policies before your visit. Enjoy your exploration of Lincoln Park's best nightlife!
