Whether you’re after experimental sips, classic concoctions, or tropical treats, Chicago’s cocktail scene has it all. The Windy City is home to some of the world’s finest cocktail bars, where skilled bartenders shake, stir, and serve drinks that cater to every taste. From hidden speakeasies to vibrant rooftops, here’s a guide to some of the best cocktail bars in Chicago that you’ll want to visit in 2024.

Kumiko 

Step inside this intimate West Loop gem, where star bartenders craft some of the most exquisite cocktails in the city. At Kumiko, the menu flows from light and refreshing to dark and complex, with ingredients that include rare spirits and unique finds like Bolivian cola bitters and purple sweet potato vinegar. 

Location: West Loop

Source: Kumiko

Milk Room 

For an ultra-exclusive experience, head to Milk Room inside the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. This micro-bar has only eight seats and offers a two-hour tasting journey featuring rare and vintage spirits, like a 1970s Fernet Branca and a 1940s Cointreau. At around $28 per cocktail (and up), you’re paying for history in a glass. Milk Room also serves luxe bites like caviar and foie gras to pair with your drinks. Make sure to book a reservation—this spot fills up fast.

Location: The Loop

Source: UChicagoBite

Meadowlark 

Located in the same building as Union and Lardon, Meadowlark provides a cozy escape in Logan Square. This swanky spot features dim lighting, leather couches, and drinks named after birds, giving the place a laid-back yet refined feel. The intimate setting makes it ideal for a quiet evening, and with cocktails priced reasonably, it’s a must-visit for those who love small, chic bars.

Location: Logan Square

Source: MeadowlarkChicago

The Violet Hour 

Arguably one of Chicago’s most iconic cocktail bars, The Violet Hour is a Wicker Park institution. Named after a line of T.S. Eliot poetry, this sleek bar takes its cocktails as seriously as its decor—no signs on the door, no loud talking, and no cosmopolitans. House rules aside, the cocktails here are exceptional, made with precision and an artful touch. Whether you’re a fan of gin, whiskey, or tequila, there’s a concoction here for you.

Location: Wicker Park

Source: Choose Chicago

Nine Bar 

Hidden behind Moon Palace Express in Chinatown, Nine Bar brings an exciting mix of Asian flavors and inventive cocktails to the scene. The Blade Runner-esque setting sets the tone for the creative drinks that follow. With cocktails like the "Paradise Lost" (made with mango brandy, cachaça, ube, pineapple, and Thai coconut milk), you’ll find yourself immersed in a completely new drinking experience. Pair your drink with their standout McKatsu sandwich—breaded pork cutlet perfection..

Location: Chinatown

Source: Nine Bar

The Aviary 

When the renowned Alinea Group does a cocktail bar, expect nothing short of culinary excellence in liquid form. The Aviary has been a staple in the West Loop since 2011, offering cocktails that push the boundaries of what a drink can be. Think floating spheres, unusual ice compositions, and meticulously layered drinks. It’s an experience to savor, and the presentations are as creative as the flavors.

Location: West Loop

Source: Will Travel For Food

Scofflaw 

Gin lovers, rejoice—Scofflaw is a haven for those who appreciate a well-made gin cocktail. The menu rotates seasonally, featuring beautiful gin sippers alongside other spirits like mezcal, tequila, and rum. Scofflaw’s understated charm and cozy atmosphere make it an easygoing spot for a night out. If you love laid-back lounges with top-tier drinks, this one’s for you.

Location: Logan Square

Source: ScofflawChicago

Three Dots and a Dash 

Tropical vibes meet Chicago’s skyline at this iconic tiki bar. Three Dots and a Dash offers a vibrant escape with its tiki-themed cocktails made with fresh-pressed juices, house-made syrups, and over-the-top garnishes. First-timers should start with the namesake drink—a potent blend of rums, allspice, falernum, orange, and lime. It’s a vacation in a glass.

Location: River North

Source: ThreeDotsChicago

Best Intentions 

Best Intentions combines dive bar vibes with craft cocktail expertise. Brothers Chris and Calvin Marty transformed the old Marble Bar into a welcoming spot with a focus on quality drinks at an affordable price. Whether you’re after an Angostura bitters shot (on draft!) or a minty Wondermint Malted Shake, this is the place for playful yet well-made cocktails.

Location: Logan Square

Source: Block Club Chicago

The Aviary Office

If you’re craving an even more exclusive experience, head downstairs from The Aviary to The Office, a hidden speakeasy offering bespoke cocktails and personalized service. Reservations are essential, as this intimate space is tiny. Opt for the "Dealer’s Choice," and let the bartender surprise you with a custom drink based on your preferences.

Location: West Loop

Source: The Aviary

Chicago’s cocktail bars offer something for everyone—from upscale lounges and speakeasies to tropical hideaways and gin-focused havens. No matter your style, you’ll find a bar that matches your vibe and a drink that leaves you wanting more. Whether you’re exploring hidden gems or established spots, the city's best cocktail bars promise unforgettable nights, one sip at a time.

Header Image Source: Vox Creative