Whoever said nothing good happens after 2 am might not have had a late-night drink at an after-hours bar. But you definitely should. There are a lot of reasons why after-hours bars are needed and loved. In a city that works late, people need a place to unwind. Some might be night owls looking for a nightcap, and some might just want to continue the party after their regular bars have rung for the last call.

No matter what the reason, we’re thankful that Chicago is one of the cities blessed with late-night bar licenses. If you’re looking for a place to drink after 12 am, we have the best ones for you. 

The Continental

The Continental, source: Timeout

Located on Humboldt Park, The Continental is a two-level bar boasting a large patio at the back and is often known to be the spot where the ‘cool kids’ hang out. Expect edgy music, dim lights, hipster crowd chugging beers, and bartenders mixing up classic cocktails like the Negroni, Daiquiri, Old Fashioned, and more. Open till 4 am, The Continental is the go-to for those looking for an edge. 

Location - 2801 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Timings - 5 pm to 4 am (Everyday)

Nick’s Beergarden

Nick’s Beergarden, renovated, source: Instagram

Nick’s Beergarden dates back to 1977, with its first location in Lincoln Park. In 1994, the beer spot moved to Wicker Park and went through a fresh renovation in 2020. Donning the area are TVs playing sports, pool tables, and large speakers with music blasting through.  Join the diverse crowd of drinkers for any occasion. As the name suggests, Nick’s Beergarden serves an array of beers including IPAs, sours, lagers, wheat beers, ciders, and more. Keep an eye on their menu, as they’re soon going to introduce a range of cocktails and a full draft list. 

Location - 1516 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Timings - 4 pm to 4 am (Everyday)

Green Mill Cocktail Lounge

Soul Message at Green Mill, source: Facebook

Green Mill is known as Chicago’s most legendary jazz lounge where Al Capone was a regular. The bar features live music from talents like Andy Brown, Chris Foreman, Soul Message, and many more. Bands and artists play from 8 pm till midnight, and yes, you can definitely hit the dancefloor. The bar is a beautiful stretch with art deco sculptures, fixtures, and an iconic neon sign. And they still serve Malort along with many other wines, beers, cocktails, and house spirits. 

Location - 4802 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640

Timings - 4 pm to 1 am (Everyday)

Old Town Ale House

Old Town Ale House, source: Facebook

Known for its political porn painting by owner Bruce Elliot, Old Town Ale House is the ideal spot for a nightcap. Enjoy a range of beers, wines, and cocktails at the dimly lit bar and booths. If you’re up for something off-the-menu, then ask bartender Tim to whip up one of his secret drinks. Stop by after 12 am and you’ll definitely witness a Second City theatre patron sipping on a drink during the wee hours. 

Location - 219 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610

Timings - 3 pm to 4 am (Monday to Friday)
12 pm to 5 am (Saturday)
12 pm to 4 am (Sunday)

Boss Bar

The front bar at Boss Bar, source: Facebook

Established in 1987, Boss Bar is a favorite amongst work professionals looking to unwind after a long day. If you’re in the mood for a chilled pint and late-night munchies, then Boss Bar is the place for you. The by-bottle beer menu comprises our favorite brands like Corona, Heineken, Miller, and more. On draft, the bar boasts craft names like Blue Moon, Revolution, Goose Island, and other cult brews like Guinness, Stella Artois, and Miller to name a few. Grab a pint of your choice and enjoy TV sports, pizza, and burgers until late hours. 

Location - 420 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

Timings - 12 pm to 2 am (Monday to Friday)
11 am to 3 am (Saturday)
11 am to 2 am (Sunday)

Celeste

Celeste, source: Facebook

Celeste brings sophistication to your 4 am nightcap by staying open after the rest of Hubbard Street shuts down. The bar on the first floor is a nod to classic neighborhood bars, offering a casual atmosphere for catching a game, indulging in elevated American cuisine, gathering with friends during happy hour, and listening to resident DJs. Located on the second floor is the Deco room that pays homage to the architectural history of Chicago with a drink menu spotlighting craft cocktails, rare vintages, and hand-selected barrels. Head on over to the fourth floor enclosed glass rooftop decorated with Victorian-style furniture. We highly recommend the Bubble Trouble from their house cocktails menu, made of Gin, Cava, Lychee, Lemon, Creme de Cacao. The bar also serves a range of wines and beers. 

Location - 111 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654

Timings - 4 pm to 4 am (Wednesday)
4 pm to 5 am (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)
Closed on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 

Estelle’s

Estelle’s, source: Facebook

Estelle’s has been a neighborhood bar and restaurant staple since 1999. Along with the many cocktails, beers, and wines; the bar also boasts a jukebox that never quits. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere are perfect for half-price happy hour (every day, 4 pm-6 pm), or a late-night drink with friends or a date. Estelle’s is also known to host some great parties and events. If you’re stopping by after-hours, then be sure to try the F?!CK Your Passion - made with Aviation Gin, Apologue Aronia, Demerara Syrup, and lime juice. 

Location - 2013 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Timings - 4 pm to 2 am (Everday) 

Header image: Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, source: Facebook