Speakeasies in Chicago, Illinois

43 hidden bars found

Chicago's cocktail culture thrives in the shadows, where unmarked doors and whispered passwords lead to some of the city's most inventive drinking establishments. Behind brick facades and through hidden entrances, 43 speakeasies across the city serve meticulously crafted cocktails in intimate spaces that honor the art of both secrecy and mixology. These clandestine bars offer refuge from the bustling streets above, each with its own distinct character and carefully curated atmosphere.

Club X Speakeasy

224 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604

4.9 (41)

Club X Speakeasy operates as a hidden bar in Chicago, Illinois, maintaining the secretive atmosphere characteristic of speakeasy-style establishments. With an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 41 reviews, this venue has clearly made a strong impression on visitors. The bar's name suggests an air of mystery, fitting for Chicago's rich history with underground drinking culture.

old-school casual Chicago staple
Chicago Prohibition Tours

27 N Wacker Dr #126, Chicago, IL 60606

4.8 (84)

Chicago Prohibition Tours offers guided experiences exploring the city's rich speakeasy history and hidden bar culture. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 84 reviews, this highly-rated tour service provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into Chicago's Prohibition-era legacy. The tours appear to be a popular way for both locals and tourists to discover the city's clandestine drinking establishments.

historic prohibition era gangster history educational tour experience Chicago speakeasy culture +1 more
classic prohibition Reservations required
The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash

435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.7 (224)

The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash is a highly-rated hidden bar located in Chicago, Illinois. With an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars from 224 reviews, this speakeasy has earned a strong reputation among patrons. The venue offers guests an intimate escape within Chicago's vibrant bar scene.

rum-centric craft cocktails refined and innovative tropical +1 more
craft rum-focused Reservations required
Three Dots and a Dash

435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.6 (8124)

Three Dots and a Dash hides beneath Chicago's streets, accessible through a discrete alley entrance that leads to this subterranean tiki paradise. The dimly-lit space transports guests to a tropical escape with expertly crafted tiki cocktails in an intimate underground setting. With a 4.6/5 rating from over 8,000 reviews, this hidden gem delivers an authentic speakeasy experience steeped in Polynesian mystique.

Alley entrance, subterranean location
hidden alley entrance subterranean dimly-lit tropical
$$$ tiki
Gilt Bar

230 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.6 (1879)

Gilt Bar is a highly-rated cocktail establishment in Chicago, earning an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars from nearly 1,900 reviews. This popular bar has garnered a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike. With its strong community following, Gilt Bar appears to be a notable destination in Chicago's cocktail scene.

discreet doorway
speakeasy intimate luxury historic Chicago +1 more
classic prohibition
The Franklin Room

675 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.6 (1095)

The Franklin Room is a highly-regarded bar located in Chicago, Illinois that has earned an impressive 4.6/5 rating from over 1,000 visitors. This establishment has clearly made a strong impression on patrons, though specific details about its atmosphere and offerings remain to be discovered. With its exceptional reviews, The Franklin Room appears to be a standout destination in Chicago's vibrant bar scene.

Cherry Circle Room

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

4.6 (958)

Cherry Circle Room is a highly-rated hidden bar located in Chicago, Illinois. With an impressive 4.6/5 rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, this establishment has clearly made a strong impression on visitors. The venue operates as a speakeasy-style destination in the heart of Chicago's vibrant nightlife scene.

Drawing Room

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

4.6 (384)

Drawing Room is a highly-regarded hidden bar located in Chicago, Illinois. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from 384 reviews, this speakeasy has clearly made a strong impression on visitors. The establishment maintains the secretive charm typical of Chicago's underground bar scene.

Inside Chicago Athletic Association
hidden gem sophisticated classic cocktails upscale dining +1 more
classic Reservations required
The Office

955 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

4.6 (218)

The Office is an exclusive basement speakeasy hidden beneath The Aviary restaurant in Chicago, accessed through a key-locked nondescript door. This clubby, intimate venue specializes in rare vintage spirits, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity for discerning cocktail enthusiasts. With its underground location and focus on exceptional aged liquors, The Office offers a truly distinctive drinking experience that has earned outstanding reviews from guests.

Key-locked nondescript door accessible through The Aviary restaurant above
hidden basement rare vintage spirits exclusive clubby
$$$$ vintage spirits Reservations required
Dorothy

2500 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

4.6 (176)

Dorothy is a highly-rated hidden bar located in Chicago, Illinois that has earned praise from visitors with an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars across 176 reviews. This speakeasy offers guests an intimate drinking experience in the Windy City. The consistently strong ratings suggest Dorothy delivers quality cocktails and atmosphere that keep patrons returning.

lesbian bar Chicago LGBTQ+
Lulu's Speakeasy

712 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.6 (57)

Lulu's Speakeasy brings authentic prohibition-era charm to Chicago with classic cocktails crafted in the traditional style of the 1920s. The intimate, relaxed atmosphere creates the perfect setting for savoring expertly mixed drinks in true speakeasy fashion. With a stellar 4.6/5 rating from 57 reviews, this hidden gem delivers an exceptional experience for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a taste of Chicago's storied past.

hidden gem in basement
speakeasy-style mysterious intimate basement venue +1 more
craft
Untitled Supper Club

111 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.5 (2995)

Untitled Supper Club brings classic supper club elegance to Chicago with its spacious and gorgeous setting. This highly-rated establishment captures the sophisticated atmosphere of vintage dining and entertainment venues. With an impressive 4.5/5 rating from nearly 3,000 reviews, it has clearly won over visitors with its refined ambiance and supper club experience.

spacious gorgeous supper club
Storyville Chicago

712 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.5 (1919)

Storyville Chicago is a highly-regarded establishment in Chicago that has earned an impressive 4.5-star rating from nearly 2,000 visitors. This popular venue draws consistent praise from patrons, suggesting a quality experience that keeps guests returning. With its evocative name referencing the historic New Orleans district, Storyville has established itself as a notable destination in Chicago's nightlife scene.

Basement speakeasy (Lulu's)
New Orleans-inspired speakeasy aesthetic elevated cocktails intimate and mysterious +1 more
craft
The Green Door Tavern

678 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.5 (1580)

The Green Door Tavern is a highly-regarded establishment located in Chicago, Illinois, earning an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews. This popular venue has established itself as a noteworthy destination in Chicago's vibrant bar scene. With such strong customer ratings, it appears to offer a memorable experience for visitors seeking quality drinks and atmosphere.

hidden door
historic speakeasy prohibition era time travel experience casual tavern +1 more
classic prohibition
Punch House

1227 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608

4.5 (472)

Hidden behind a rotating bookcase in the lower level of Dusek's Board and Beer, Punch House brings a nostalgic 1970s retro vibe to Chicago's speakeasy scene. This acclaimed hidden bar specializes in expertly crafted punch cocktails, creating an intimate atmosphere that perfectly balances vintage charm with modern mixology. With a stellar 4.5/5 rating from nearly 500 reviews, it's become a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking both exceptional drinks and an authentic speakeasy experience.

Secret rotating bookcase door accessed from Dusek's Board and Beer lower level
bookcase door 1970s retro nostalgic speakeasy aesthetic
$$ punch-focused Reservations required
Bar Sótano

In the alley behind Frontera Grill, 443 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.5 (366)

Bar Sótano is a mezcal-focused speakeasy in Chicago that specializes in agave-based cocktails with an emphasis on mezcal and tequila. The bar cultivates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere while maintaining its hidden bar mystique. With a strong 4.5/5 rating from 366 reviews, it's established itself as a standout destination for agave spirit enthusiasts.

unmarked door in alley
mezcal-focused Mexican markets-inspired hidden speakeasy craft agave spirits +1 more
classic Reservations required
Zebra Lounge

Canterbury Court Apartments, 1220 N State Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60610

4.5 (345)

Zebra Lounge is a highly-rated hidden bar located in Chicago, Illinois, earning an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars from 345 reviews. This speakeasy-style establishment has built a strong reputation among Chicago's cocktail enthusiasts. The bar's excellent rating suggests a quality experience that keeps patrons returning to this tucked-away venue.

The Bassment - Chicago

353 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.4 (902)

The Bassment is a Chicago speakeasy that has earned strong recognition among the city's cocktail scene. With an impressive 4.4/5 rating from over 900 reviews, this hidden bar has clearly struck a chord with patrons seeking an elevated drinking experience in the Windy City.

The Drifter

676-8 N Orleans St, Chicago, IL 60654

4.4 (823)

The Drifter operates as a hidden speakeasy in Chicago, accessed through a concealed door near the Green Door Tavern restrooms in what was once an original prohibition-era space. This unpretentious establishment serves classic prohibition-style cocktails from tarot card menus while featuring burlesque entertainment. With a 4.4/5 rating from over 800 reviews, it offers an authentic speakeasy experience complete with the traditional knock-entry ritual.

Knock on hidden door located near Green Door Tavern restrooms, original speakeasy space
knock-entry hidden door tarot card menus burlesque +1 more
$$ classic prohibition
The Revel Room

1566 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

4.4 (569)

The Revel Room is a highly-regarded bar located in Chicago, Illinois, earning strong customer satisfaction with a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from nearly 600 reviews. This Chicago establishment has built a solid reputation among locals and visitors alike. With such consistently positive feedback, The Revel Room appears to deliver a quality drinking experience in the Windy City.

Blind Wolf Speakeasy

3222 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

4.4 (72)

Blind Wolf Speakeasy operates as a hidden bar in Chicago, offering guests an intimate drinking experience away from the typical nightlife scene. This well-regarded establishment has earned strong reviews from patrons who appreciate its speakeasy atmosphere. The bar maintains the secretive charm characteristic of Chicago's underground drinking culture.

speakeasy hidden exclusive vintage +1 more
classic prohibition
The Green Mill

4802 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640

4.3 (4532)

The Green Mill is a legendary Chicago speakeasy that operated during Prohibition and continues to serve classic cocktails in its original historic setting. Once frequented by Al Capone, this authentic jazz club maintains its prohibition-era atmosphere with live jazz performances and traditional cocktails. With a 4.3/5 rating from over 4,500 reviews, it offers visitors a genuine glimpse into Chicago's storied past.

Prohibition-era original speakeasy
historic Al Capone jazz prohibition-era
classic prohibition
Brando's Speakeasy

343 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60604

4.3 (2082)

Brando's Speakeasy brings authentic prohibition-era atmosphere to Chicago with classic cocktails crafted in the traditional style of the 1920s. This well-regarded establishment captures the clandestine spirit of the speakeasy era while serving expertly mixed drinks that honor cocktail history. With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, it has established itself as a popular destination for those seeking a genuine prohibition-style drinking experience.

karaoke lounge vintage Chicago tavern fun and lighthearted craft cocktails +1 more
craft
Blind Barber

948 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

4.3 (960)

Blind Barber in Chicago operates as a hidden bar with a sexy, underground atmosphere that draws crowds seeking an intimate nightlife experience. The venue features DJ entertainment that adds to its alluring speakeasy vibe. With a strong 4.3/5 rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, this concealed hotspot has established itself as a popular destination for those in the know.

hidden
hidden sexy DJ
The Gatsby Speakeasy

736 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

4.3 (153)

The Gatsby Speakeasy brings 1920s-inspired elegance to Chicago's cocktail scene. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 150 reviews, this establishment has earned recognition among the city's nightlife destinations. The bar offers guests a taste of Prohibition-era atmosphere in Illinois' vibrant metropolis.

Bunker

1515 W Monroe St thru patio, Chicago, IL 60607

4.3 (95)

Bunker is a highly-rated bar located in Chicago, Illinois that has earned a strong reputation among patrons. With a 4.3/5 rating from 95 reviews, this establishment appears to offer a quality drinking experience in the city. The bar's name suggests an underground or intimate atmosphere that draws visitors seeking a unique Chicago nightlife destination.

neighborhood bar sports bar relaxed and unpretentious casual dining +1 more
craft
Hideout Lounge

2832 Ridgeland Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402

4.3 (74)

Hideout Lounge is a well-regarded cocktail destination in Chicago that captures the intimate atmosphere of a classic speakeasy. With a strong 4.3/5 rating from 74 reviews, this establishment has earned a loyal following among locals and visitors seeking a refined drinking experience. The lounge offers a cozy retreat from the bustling city streets.

Bodega Bar at The Berkshire Room

15 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611

4.2 (72)

Bodega Bar at The Berkshire Room operates as a speakeasy-style establishment in Chicago, Illinois. This hidden bar has earned solid recognition among patrons, maintaining a 4.2 out of 5 rating based on 72 reviews. The venue offers guests a secretive drinking experience in the heart of the Windy City.

Second Story Bar

157 E Ohio St #2, Chicago, IL 60611

4.1 (257)

Second Story Bar is a hidden cocktail destination located in Chicago, Illinois. With a solid 4.1-star rating from over 250 reviews, this speakeasy-style establishment has earned a reputation among locals and visitors seeking craft cocktails in an intimate setting. The bar offers a secretive atmosphere that captures the essence of Chicago's underground drinking culture.

Bordel

1721 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

4.0 (592)

Bordel is a Parisian-inspired hidden bar in Chicago, accessed through an unmarked door in the Black Bull restaurant foyer via a dramatic red staircase. This craft cocktail lounge features vintage erotic art and regularly hosts burlesque shows, jazz performances, cabaret acts, and magic shows in an intimate setting. With its theatrical atmosphere and quality drinks program, Bordel has earned a solid 4.0/5 rating from nearly 600 reviews.

Unmarked door in Black Bull restaurant foyer, accessed via red staircase
unmarked entrance burlesque vintage erotic art Parisian +1 more
$$$ craft
Potter’s Bar

124 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

3.7 (318)

Potter's Bar is a speakeasy-style establishment located in Chicago, Illinois. With a solid 3.7-star rating from over 300 reviews, this hidden bar offers guests an intimate drinking experience in the city's vibrant nightlife scene. The venue attracts patrons seeking a more discreet and atmospheric alternative to traditional bars.

hidden door/passageway through lobby
prohibition era sophisticated lounge historic speakeasy +1 more
classic prohibition Password required
Green Mill Cocktail Lounge

4802 N. Broadway St.

The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge in Chicago preserves authentic Prohibition-era atmosphere with its original trapdoor behind the bar and classic cocktail program. This historic venue features live jazz entertainment and maintains a cash-only policy, creating an immersive experience that transports guests back to the 1920s speakeasy era.

Trapdoor behind bar (original Prohibition-era feature)
historic live jazz trapdoor cash only
$ classic prohibition
The Violet Hour

1520 N. Damen Ave.

The Violet Hour hides behind a camouflaged door marked only by a lone lightbulb, leading guests past velvet curtains into Chicago's dimly-lit cocktail sanctuary. This craft cocktail haven enforces a strict no-cell phone policy, creating an intimate atmosphere where expertly mixed drinks take center stage. The bar's commitment to old-school speakeasy etiquette makes it a standout destination for serious cocktail enthusiasts.

Camouflaged door marked by a lone lightbulb, past velvet curtains
hidden entrance craft cocktails no cell phones dimly-lit
$$$ craft
babyATLAS

3101 N. Sheffield Ave. #1

babyATLAS is a subterranean speakeasy in Chicago, accessed by descending stairs below Matilda bar through a street-level railing entrance. This intimate, below-ground space serves craft cocktails and features DJ sets with dance music, creating an energetic nightlife atmosphere. The tight quarters and cash-only policy add to its exclusive, underground club vibe.

Descend flight of stairs below Matilda bar, accessed from street level railing
stair descent below-ground dance-focused tight space +1 more
$ craft
Barrelhouse Flat

2624 N Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Park

Barrelhouse Flat is a hidden upstairs bar in Chicago that offers a quiet retreat from the bustle below. Guests can access this craft cocktail haven by heading to the back of the main bar and climbing the stairs to discover an intimate space with great decor and expertly crafted drinks.

Hidden upstairs bar accessible by going to the back of the bar and up the stairs
hidden upstairs quiet craft cocktails great decor
craft
Untitled

111 W Kinzie St., River North

This massive Chicago speakeasy features multiple rooms and private booths, creating an expansive hidden world once you locate its easily-missed entrance. The venue serves craft cocktails while hosting live music performances throughout its various spaces. Despite its secretive entry, the bar's popularity often reveals itself through lines of patrons waiting outside.

Hidden entrance, easily missed unless there's a line outside
massive venue multiple rooms private booths live entertainment
$$$ craft
Violet Hour

1520 N Damen Ave., Wicker Park

Hidden behind a massive, ever-changing mural in Chicago, Violet Hour offers an intimate speakeasy experience where craft cocktails take center stage. The bar maintains its secretive atmosphere with a no cell phone policy, creating a space focused on conversation and expertly prepared drinks.

Hidden behind a massive, ever-changing mural painted across the building's wall
hidden entrance craft cocktails no cell phones intimate
craft
Door No. 3

1572 N Milwaukee Ave., Wicker Park (alley off Damen, under Blue Line tracks)

Door No. 3 is a craft cocktail bar tucked away in Chicago's basement scene, accessed through an alley entrance off Damen under the Blue Line tracks. This underground lounge combines expertly crafted drinks with DJ entertainment, creating a fun, energetic atmosphere that transforms the subterranean space into a lively nighttime destination.

Entrance in the alley off Damen under the Blue Line tracks
alley entrance basement lounge DJ fun
craft
Double A

108 W Kinzie St., River North (basement of Mercadito)

Double A is a tiny, intimate basement bar in Chicago that specializes in expertly crafted cocktails. The underground location creates a cozy, hidden-away atmosphere perfect for those seeking a more secluded drinking experience. This intimate space focuses on quality craft cocktails in a setting that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Located in basement
tiny intimate craft cocktails basement
$$$ craft

Room 13 operates as a hidden speakeasy in Chicago, offering guests an intimate drinking experience away from the main thoroughfares. The bar embraces classic speakeasy traditions with its concealed location and secretive atmosphere. Patrons can expect a cozy, dimly-lit environment that captures the essence of Prohibition-era drinking establishments.

hidden speakeasy
Watershed

601 N. State St.

Watershed is a hidden basement bar beneath Pops for Champagne in Chicago, accessible via a marked stairway bearing the distinctive W symbol. This upscale hideout serves craft cocktails in vintage glassware, creating an intimate speakeasy atmosphere that feels like a sophisticated underground refuge.

Accessed through Pops for Champagne bar via marked stairway (W symbol)
hidden basement upscale hideout feel vintage glasses
$$$$ craft
The Library

230 W. Kinzie St.

The Library operates as a hidden basement speakeasy beneath Gilt Bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood, accessible by reservation only. This bookish retreat channels academic elegance with candlelit red-velvet booths and Harvard-inspired décor, serving classic prohibition-era cocktails in an intimate underground setting.

Hidden below Gilt Bar in River North, accessed by reservation
hidden basement bookish candlelit red-velvet booths +1 more
$$$ classic prohibition Reservations required

Library Bar in Chicago offers an intimate literary escape where books and wine create a cozy, intellectual atmosphere. The venue combines the quiet charm of a personal library with carefully curated wine selections, making it an ideal spot for thoughtful conversation. This book-lovers' retreat provides a sophisticated yet comfortable setting away from the bustling city.

books wine intimate