A-tier dive with crisp draft beer, unbeatable prices, and real neighborhood vibes. 10 solid drafts (local brews, cider, lagers, even Twisted Tea), with classics in cans. Liquor’s basic but covers the standards. Decor drips Chicago pride — movie nods, sports stuff, and Christmas lights. Bartender’s a gem, crowd’s all regulars, and it’s dog-friendly. Darts, board games, and even a vintage bowling game seal it. If you love Christmas lights , great decor and chill vibes, this is the spot for you.

punky dive with elite booze and cozy old-school vibes. HAMS and craft beer on draft, plus one of the best whiskey selections in any bar — yes, even Dom Perignon.

Expect black-and-white films on the TVs, quirky art, fast service, and wild drink specials ($3 Four Roses, $1 beers Mondays). Pool, pong, and a second-floor bar round it out.

This family-owned bar nails the neighborhood vibe with ice-cold drafts, great tequila options, and one of the best bottle selections around. Prices are unbeatable—$4 PBRs, $7.50 Don Julio 70 sodas, and $22 Modelo buckets. The space is cozy and fun with Christmas lights, bobbleheads, and a patio out back. You’ll find Golden Tee, TouchTunes, plenty of TVs, and even a cute little patio!

Liars Club in Lincoln Park is a loud, gritty, and unforgettable punk rock gem. With over 10 beers on tap and solid prices — $5 Old Styles, $6 tequila sodas, and $4 Rolling Rocks — it’s one of the best values around. The decor is unmatched, featuring dark red lighting, punk memorabilia, and a stage for live shows that create an authentic underground vibe. With karaoke nights, a pinball machine, and a Photo Booth, this spot delivers one of Chicago’s most unique and electric bar experiences.

Jake’s nails the dive bar energy with a great draft lineup (9 rotating taps) and a strong liquor selection that covers both basics and locals. Vibes were off the charts thanks to Casey, an all-time great bartender who made the experience unforgettable with jokes, hospitality, and a round of Jamo. Entertainment is stacked—free pool and darts, TouchTunes, TVs, Ring hoop game, vintage decor, and even a punching game. Prices are a bit steep compared to other dives, with no light beer on draft, but still worth it for the experience. If you love semi dark, sports / vintage dive bar feel. With lots to entertain you, this is the bar for you.

Bridgeport Inn is a Sox-themed South Side classic that feels like stepping into your grandpa’s basement — in the best way. 🏟️ With Hamm’s and Yuengling on draft served in frosted glasses, unbeatable value ($4 drafts, $16 buckets), and walls packed with neon signs, vintage beer décor, and Chicago sports memorabilia, it’s old-school dive bar perfection. Add in 3 TVs, pool, darts, slot machines, TouchTunes, and a friendly crowd, and you’ve got pure South Side charm.

A gritty, creative gem with killer vibes and unbeatable value. Expect 9 draft options including a refreshing local Kölsch, hazy IPAs, and even margaritas and Long Islands on tap. The liquor shelf is stacked, and the chalkboard beer list adds a classic dive touch.

Graffiti-covered benches, loud speakers, and unique artwork bring the punk-meets-art-school energy. There’s a stage in the back for live music or open mic, plus pool and a photo booth to keep things lively. Service is top-notch, with welcoming, social bartenders. Drink deals are unreal — $4 Miller Lites, $5 local drafts, and $8 Chicago Handshakes.

Vintage dive bar vibes with a community feel and surprisingly strong drink options. Crisp draft lineup (Old Style, Lagunitas, Blue Moon), cold bottles, and rotating beer-of-the-month deals for $5. The crowd is laid-back and diverse, with Cubs loyalty, classic rock, and a nostalgic vibe setting the tone. Bartender’s friendly and knows the bar’s history. Bonus points for free popcorn, slots, karaoke, and even Connect 4 tournaments. A classic dive with a fun twist. A bar that is very connected with its regulars and does events often! If you love the Christmas lights vibes, with a lively atmosphere, this is the bar for you.

Alive One in Lincoln Park is a lively neighborhood spot with disco balls, great live music, and an energy that gets everyone talking. They serve crisp drafts like Dovetail Lager and Krombacher, solid liquor picks like Jamo and Screwball, and tasty $8 house cocktail specials. The real highlight? Great daily specials / happy hour! Stand up comedy and live music! Vibes are always amazing! Very dark , dimly lit, rockstar vibes

Web Pub delivered the best draft beer experience so far—cold, crisp, visibly bubbly pours with a diverse 9-beer lineup including Miller Lite, Guinness, Yuengling, and even a special Busch keg for a wedding party. The alcohol selection is strong across cans, seltzers, locals, and liquor. Vibes were warm and welcoming with great decor and regulars rolling through, even at noon on a Saturday. Entertainment includes free darts, a bowling-style arcade game, slots, and a seasonal patio. Service was top-tier—bartender was upbeat, social, and knowledgeable. Prices were a little high ($5–6 drafts), but the experience made up for it. A classic dive bar feel but with a more modern twist. If you like social / lively setting, I’d suggest this spot!

J&M Tap is a true hidden gem in Ukrainian Village, holding it down since 1974. To get in, you ring the doorbell and get buzzed into a classic old-school Chicago bar filled with Christmas lights, vintage beer and neon signs, and cash-only cheap specials. The layout is spacious with darts, slots, TouchTunes, and plenty of TVs for the game. They keep it simple with four ice-cold drafts, including $4 PBR, and the vibes are always welcoming. If you’re into neighborhood classics with cozy Christmas-light charm and plenty of entertainment, J&M Tap is a must-visit.

Parrots delivers that neighborhood dive energy with cold, crisp draft beer (though only 4 of 6 taps were active). Alcohol selection isn’t heavy on top shelf, but offers an impressive variety including flavored vodkas and all the classics. Vibes were great during happy hour—locals chatting, bartender keeping the energy up, and everyone feeling welcome. Entertainment is stacked: free pool, darts, board games, AMI jukebox, and 10+ TVs. Service was excellent—friendly, informative, and super social. Great happy hour deals ($4 wells, $4.50 drafts). If you want a unique dive bar aesthetic, with an old school twist, with lots to do, I would say pretty lively crowd. This is for you!

This laid-back local spot keeps it simple with two drafts on tap and solid everyday liquor options, from bourbon to tequila. The value can’t be beat—$2.50 Miller Lites or a $15 bucket of six. The bar’s covered in Christmas lights and neon signs, giving it that perfect classic dive feel, with plenty of locals even on a weekday afternoon. Entertainment includes two pool tables, slot machines, TouchTunes, six TVs, and a chill back patio—everything you need for a low-key night out.

SmallBar brings the heat with 12 killer drafts, ranging from light lagers to IPAs and ciders—all served ice cold in chilled glasses. Their liquor selection is just as impressive, with top-to-bottom shelf options and great variety. Vibes are chill with a social local crowd and character-filled decor. Entertainment is light but the back patio and quality sound system help hold it down. Service was excellent—friendly, fast, and even tossed us a shot. Value’s decent ($4 Old Style, $8 beer & shot combo), but not super dive-y. We have to shout out their burgers, maybe the best you’ll ever have! Even though we don’t do food reviews! If you like elegant, elevated, modern dive bar feel, this is your bar. Great cocktails, ICE COLD beverages.

The Native (Logan Square) – Cozy neighborhood dive with a great mix of locals, cold $5 drafts, and classic beers like Old Style, Hamm’s, and Miller High Life on tap. Dog-friendly with bingo nights, a back patio, and a fun Photo Booth. Chill vibes, friendly bartenders, and solid value make it a must-stop in Logan Square. 💲$5–10 drinks.

Very dim lighting, old school beer decor, great spot

Unique hybrid dive and liquor store with an unbeatable alcohol selection. Draft Miller Lite was flat and flavorless, but the overall variety makes up for it. Vibes are top-notch—regulars pack the place, music’s at a perfect volume, and the crowd was locked into the NBA Finals. Entertainment includes TouchTunes, arcade, TVs, and a seasonal patio. Great value with solid pricing ($3.50–$5.25 range). Friendly, fast service with strong regulars energy. Very artsy , crafty and social vibe. If that’s your type, I’d suggest it!

Classic, no-frills dive with zero drafts, but cold cans, cheap cocktails, and unbeatable character. Think High Life, PBR, and old-school staples — no craft scene here. The crowd’s local, loyal, and diverse, with dark lighting, Sox memorabilia, and that gritty charm only real dive bars have. Service is fast and blunt (the right kind), and $3.50 bottles don’t lie. Cash only, TouchTunes bumping, a pool table, and a smoker’s side door — this place keeps it real. If you love the very old , vintage, dark, dives bar feel, this is for you!

Classic neighborhood dive with great liquor selection and ICE COLD Canned / bottled beers. Vibes are spot on with dark lighting, cozy bar stools, and great decor. Friendly bartender with solid service. Prices are a bit high for basics ($5 per beer), but fair for the area. Entertainment includes TouchTunes, darts, TVs, and a hidden arcade game. If you love Dark, Disco, grungy, with great loud music playing, this is the spot for you!

One of Wrigleyville’s OG dive bars, Nisei offers 8 cold, well-poured drafts (served in plastic cups, sadly) and an insane selection of 50+ cans and seltzers—plus a full liquor lineup and 50 bottles of Malört lining the bar for good measure. Vibes were laid-back and chill with fun holiday decor, even at noon on a Friday. Entertainment is strong: free darts, pool (though $2/game), board games, a claw machine, and a Photo Booth. Service was friendly and welcoming, and while prices weren’t super cheap ($4–7 range), it’s still solid for Wrigleyville. If you want a vintage dive bar experience, with old school decor and vibes, come here, it’s a lot more slower pace than the Clark strip. A lot cheaper as well compared to those bars!

Bucktown Pub brings elevated dive bar energy with ice-cold draft beer, a top-tier alcohol selection, and a laid-back, local crowd. The patio and dog-friendly vibe add charm, while the service was warm and on point. Entertainment is minimal, but with $30 covering 5 drafts and 3 shots—including a round for our guy Keith—it’s hard to argue with the value. It’s a more rustic / elevated dive bar aura, if you want something dive feely, but not dirty, come here. It’s elevated.

This iconic Wrigleyville staple delivers across the board. Rotating draft beers, top-shelf liquor, and a deep selection of cans and seltzers make it a drinker’s paradise. The vibes were immaculate even on a non-game day—day drinkers, great music, and a killer patio setup. TVs everywhere, Golden Tee, TouchTunes, and hands-down the dopest memorabilia we’ve seen at a bar. Service is fast and friendly, but expect Wrigley prices—$8 Busch Light, $12 Jameson. Still, for the atmosphere and quality, Murphy’s earns its stripes. If you want a vloud, lively, very social settings, with endless things to do, I’d suggest coming here!

Nighthawk is a true hidden gem right off the Brown Line, blending divey charm with an artsy, community feel. The value is unbeatable—$3 Genesee cream ales, $4 Lone Star, $5 Old Style tallboys, plus cheap shots and cocktails—making it one of the best-priced bars around. Inside, you’ll find booths, a bar rail, and walls covered in artwork that give the space a creative vibe, while the back patio offers colorful decor, a projector, and plenty of room for groups. Regular events like Bob Ross night and DJ sets add to the fun, and the friendly bartenders and locals make it feel extra welcoming. With solid cocktails, unique beers, and a laid-back atmosphere, Nighthawk is a must for anyone looking for cheap drinks and cool vibes.

Reed’s Local is a time machine back to the ‘80s — think $2 Hamm’s, or $4 Hamms and old crow shot! Vintage sports and beer decor, and a jukebox dive vibe you can’t fake. They’ve got all the dive bar essentials in terms of liquor! Lots of variety in cans and bottles to IPAs, Ciders, Setlzers, Lagers, to pinball, air hockey, and even merch. Pure old-school charm, no frills, all feel.

Cork Lounge impresses with 14 cold draft options (including PBR, German beers, and Guinness), served in proper glassware with great head, though missing some bubble clarity. Alcohol selection is strong across the board with whiskey, tequila, flavored liquors, and everyday beer choices. Vibes were electric on a Friday night—young crowd, great decor, and tons of energy. Entertainment is a standout: free pool, darts, and shuffleboard, plus TouchTunes, TVs, snacks, and even a Pac-Man machine. Service was quick but impersonal, and the value was the weak spot—$6 domestics is steep. But if you love Artsty, Christmas lights, cool wall decor. With endless entertainment including board games, this the bar for you!

Fireside’s bar is an old-school hidden gem with vintage decor, neon lights, and a classic Chicago vibe. The draft list is small, but the Miller Lite was crisp and refreshing, just could’ve been a bit colder. They offer a solid liquor selection with plenty of flavored vodkas and a wide range of canned and bottled beers. Prices are great too, with $5 drafts and $9 handshakes that make it an easy spot to enjoy without overspending. Service was excellent and added to the charm of this timeless bar.

Rainbo Club is a true old-school dive bar and the home of some of the best cheap drinks in town—$2 Hamms in a can and $3 PBR drafts. This cash-only spot keeps it vintage with black-and-red checkered floors, classic booths, rotating bar stools, and dim lighting that sets the mood. You’ll find a record player running the tunes, an old-school photo booth, an arcade machine, and even a patio to hang out on. The walls regularly showcase rotating art from local artists, giving the bar a creative edge. At night the vibes are lively, the value is unbeatable, and if you’re into retro charm and cheap classic beers, Rainbo is a must-visit.

Gold Star delivers top-tier energy with one of the best alcohol selections so far—from mezcal and brandy to craft beers, ciders, and malt beverages, all made easier with an online menu. Draft list is small but solid (Old Style, Estrella Jalisco, IPA, sour), and the vibes were electric on a Thursday night. Free pool and a summer patio add to the charm, though entertainment is limited. Value is decent—$7 Chicago handshake deal and $5 drafts. But the real star is Anthony, the bartender—charismatic, generous, and running the show like a pro. If you like Dark and Dungey, old school, this is the bar for you!

This is your vibe if you love late night crowds! Or need somewhere to go after your 1 AM bar closes!? Affordable, no-frills dive with standout deals like $3 Guinness on nitro and $3 Miller Lites. Alcohol selection is stacked from top-shelf to flavored vodka. Vibes are a bit bland and too bright, but the loyal local crowd brings it to life. Service was top-tier—shoutout to Nova for the free shot and great hospitality. Entertainment includes TVs, pool, slots, and Ami (though it wasn’t in use when we went). Great late-night spot open ‘til 4–5 AM.

Kasey’s Tavern in Printer’s Row is where a classic sports bar meets an elevated dive. Known for its massive selection—15+ drafts, tall boys, canned beers, seltzers, ciders, and even Hexe coffee on tap—it’s a spot that caters to everyone. The wall of keg handles sets the tone, and the crowd is a lively mix of workers, freelancers, and locals enjoying a midday pint. Prices are fair for the neighborhood ($5 PBR drafts), service is excellent, and while entertainment is limited to TVs, TouchTunes, and a seasonal patio, the atmosphere and variety of drinks make this bar a standout.

Classic neighborhood spot with strong local vibes and a historic, rustic feel. Draft quality is solid (shoutout Dovetail Lager), though the selection is limited—no light beers available. Alcohol options are average, mostly common picks with few surprises. Service was quick and polite, mostly engaging with regulars. Entertainment includes a pool table, TouchTunes, snacks, and a small seasonal patio. Incredible value—$3 Hams, $5 well drinks, and $10 pitchers on special days. If you love historical, cheap, old school, this bar is for you! Loved this place!

L&P Liquors is a lowkey hidden gem that doubles as a bar and liquor store, giving it a unique vibe. The draft list is small but solid, with an ice-cold PBR that really stands out. Prices are amazing, making it an easy spot to chill without spending much. Free pool, cool art, TVs, slots, and a jukebox keep things fun all night. Plus, Ella’s awesome hospitality makes you feel welcome right away.

Burton’s Place in Old Town is dive bar meets sports bar meets club. With 24 beers on draft and solid happy hour deals, it’s perfect for beer lovers and bargain seekers alike. The vibe is lively with minimal bar decor, plenty of TVs, darts, slot machine, and music — great for watching games or hanging out late. Simple drinks, good service, and a mix of divey charm and club energy make this a fun, well-rounded spot in the heart of Old Town.

The Charleston is a cozy, dimly lit neighborhood bar known for its standout alcohol and beer selection, especially rare imports from Europe and unique drafts like coffee ales. Prices are fair ($5–$8 for beers, $8 cocktails), and while entertainment is minimal aside from a photo booth, the romantic vintage vibe and attentive service more than make up for it. With locals filling the bar and bartenders who go above and beyond, this spot shines for its variety, charm, and welcoming atmosphere—perfect for anyone looking to enjoy unique beers in a relaxed setting.

A true local gem with 16 beers on draft, including classics like Old Style and Guinness, plus fun flavored Malört shots. Great prices, friendly service, and a warm vibe filled with locals, dogs, and Christmas lights. You can even catch live rock music from next door.

Irish-leaning bar with solid value and an impressive liquor lineup, but draft beer quality falls a bit short. With 16 drafts and a full bar stocked with everything from Malört to Aperol, the alcohol selection is a standout. The vibe leans more classic Irish than gritty dive, with decent decor and a chill crowd. Service is friendly but a bit slow, and the drafts could be colder. Bonus points for the patio, solid food, and $9 pitchers — a steal for Lincoln Park. This spot gives an old school dive bar vibe even though it’s Irish, it has great audio, so if you love old school vibes, with bumping music , I’d suggest this place!

Lemming’s in Bucktown is a neighborhood favorite with a loyal regular crowd and classic dive charm. They offer 10 solid drafts (served in glass cups) and a basic but reliable liquor selection, with a few surprises like Buchanan’s. Prices lean a bit high for the area—$5 Old Style drafts, $8 Czechsfires, $6 Jameson during happy hour—but the vibe makes up for it. The space is dark and cozy with Schlitz decor, vintage art, and a laid-back atmosphere. Entertainment includes free pool, two pinball machines (including a John Wick game), board games, and a couple TVs, giving it some low-key fun. Service is old-school and friendly, and while it may not be the best value, Lemming’s stands out as a classic local bar with character and community feel.

A cozy Pilsen spot right off the Pink Line, The Barrel offers six unique draft beers, a strong canned selection, and excellent liquor and cocktail options. Prices are unbeatable with $7 Chicago Handshakes and great to-go beer deals. The bar has a friendly vibe, fun decor, TouchTunes, TVs, and even a Pac-Man machine. Service is top-notch and personal, making this spot a true neighborhood favorite

A unique European local hangout with great energy, crisp drafts, and standout service — but a little pricey for a true dive. Cold beer, solid liquor variety, and even a live band on weekends set the mood. The crowd’s lively, the vibes are strong, and the koi pond in back (yes, really) makes this spot one-of-a-kind. Bartender Kasha is a highlight — warm, welcoming, and generous. Just be ready to pay a bit more than your typical dive — $7 drafts and cash only. The bar is nice and dim, interesting wall decor, a little bit more modern of a dive feel, loud music, if that’s your vibe. Go for it!

A true neighborhood gem with cold drafts, quirky art, and legendary dive bar charm. The beer’s crisp and varied — from Old Style to Guinness — and the liquor is classic, affordable, and unpretentious. Expect dim lighting, friendly regulars, and unique, handmade portraits instead of the usual bar kitsch. Service is top-notch and laid-back, and prices are a steal for Old Town. Just don’t expect much entertainment unless the jukebox is rolling — this spot is all about conversation and character. Very artistic, with no music extremely quiet, crowd wasn’t as engaging, red and dim lighting. If you want a more slow pace, quiet bar, chill. I’d come here!

Grimy, iconic, and weird in all the right ways — a true dive with no drafts, dim lighting, and a ton of character. No taps here, just a strong lineup of canned classics like Hamm’s, Old Milwaukee, and Schlitz, plus seltzers and mid-shelf liquor. Prices are fair for being so close to Wrigley, but it’s cash only. The vibes are peak old-school — beat-up stools, creepy posters, and Wheel of Fortune before the jukebox kicks in. A Lakeview staple if you like your bars weird, dark, and unapologetically divey. If you love creepy, haunting, dark, dungy, vibes, little more slow pace, I’d suggest this spot.