Looking for a night out in Chicago? There are plenty of live music bars to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for blues, jazz, or rock, Chicago has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best live music bars in Chicago, so you can plan your next night out.
Best Live Music Bars in Chicago Key Takeaways
- Chicago has many live music bars to choose from.
- Dorians is a cozy bar in Wicker Park that hosts live music every night.
- Kingston Mines is an iconic blues club that has been around since 1968 and serves up bar food like chicken wings and BBQ.
Quick Fire Roundup Of The Best Live Music Bars in Chicago 2023
Here are our top picks for the Best Live Music Bars in Chicago
- Dorians
- Kingston Mines
- Bordel
- Andy’s Jazz Club
- Untitled Supper Club
- The Bassment
- Bronzeville Winery
- Bub City
- Dusek’s
- Blue Chicago
- The Empty Bottle
- Phyllis’ Musical Inn
- The Hideout
- The California Clipper
- Hungry Brain
- Schubas Tavern
- Smoke Daddy BBQ
- The Dearborn
- Grapes and Grain
- The Press Room
- Bottom Lounge
- The Green Mill
Best Live Music Bars in Chicago: Top 22 Venues for Music Lovers
Chicago is known for its vibrant music scene, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting one of the city’s many live music bars. Here are some of the best live music bars in Chicago that you should check out:
Dorians
Dorians is a unique spot in Chicago that is both a record store during the day and a cocktail lounge by night. This intimate space is perfect for those who want to enjoy live music in a cozy and low-lit atmosphere. The large stage paired with live nightly music makes it a spectacle, and there is no shortage of amazing snacks, including cheese plates, popcorn, and pretzels. The signature cocktails are also refreshing and sweet, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the night.
The speakeasy design of Dorians attracts many visitors, but it’s the energetic atmosphere that keeps them coming back. Whether you’re twirling in circles or sitting and listening from afar, you’ll be able to enjoy the live music Chicago has to offer. The record shop’s vinyl selections add to the overall ambiance, making it a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy live music while enjoying a lovely meal, Dorians is an excellent choice. The space is transformed into a cozy lounge that echoes elegance and intimacy, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends. With a reservation, you can secure your spot at Dorians and enjoy a night of great music and delicious cocktails.
Location: 1939 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Reservation: Secure a spot at Dorians here.
Kingston Mines
If you are looking for a place to enjoy live music in Chicago, Kingston Mines is a great option. Located in Lincoln Park, this restaurant and bar has two stages where bands alternate between them, ensuring there is never a dull moment. The restaurant is known for its Southern-style menu, which includes catfish, ribs, and a crispy chicken sandwich.
Kingston Mines has a rustic and tangerine-hued ambiance, which emulates a bar off Bourbon Street. The restaurant is bustling and zestful, making it a great place to spend an evening filled with laughter and galavanting. The live music shows at Kingston Mines are dedicated to blues, which means that you can enjoy some of the best blues music in Chicago while having a meal.
The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to visit with friends or family. The menu at Kingston Mines is doused with Southern items, including catfish, ribs, and a crispy chicken sandwich—essential when listening to the blues. The restaurant has a reputation for being one of the best spots in the city to see live music, with blues shows going until late at night.
Overall, Kingston Mines is a great place to enjoy live music in Chicago. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and some of the best blues music in the city.
Bordel
If you’re looking for a speakeasy that channels the spirit of Paris’ Montmartre, then Bordel in Wicker Park is the place for you. As you enter the grass door that cosplays as a wall, you’ll be greeted by sumptuous candlelight interiors and nightly entertainment, varying from jazz musicians to burlesque performers.
Bordel’s cozy and intimate atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a date. The selection of savory and sweet snacks, including Pan Con Tomato, Croquetas, Leche Merengada, and more, is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Bordel is one of Chicago’s unrivaled speakeasies, and it effortlessly channels the hospitality, revelry, and sultry energy of Paris’ Pigalle and Montmartre. The venue is a cocktail bar and cabaret, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a night out while listening to some great live music.
If you want to experience the vibrant live music scene in Chicago, then Bordel should be on your list of places to check out. With its sumptuous candlelit interiors, nightly entertainment, and selection of savory and sweet snacks, Bordel is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy some great live music.
Andy’s Jazz Club
If you’re looking for a classic jazz club experience in Chicago, Andy’s Jazz Club is a must-visit. Located at 11 E Hubbard St, this venue has a long and rich history of becoming one of Chicago’s most beloved restaurants with live music The club started as a small lounge where hordes of employees from Chicago’s newspaper industry would gather and sip beers after work. Jazz promoter Penny Tyler and guitarist John Defauw swiftly transformed the Andy’s into an iconic jazz hangout that people come from all over the city and suburbs to hear.
The club’s intimate atmosphere and high-quality performances make it a great spot for a night out. Andy’s Jazz Club presents two bands every night of the week, with the first band performing from 5 pm to 6:30 pm and 7 pm to 8:30 pm, and the second band performing from 9:30 pm to 11 pm and 11:30 pm to 1 am every night of the week You can expect to hear a range of jazz styles, from traditional and swing to bop, fusion, Latin, Afro-Pop, and more.
The food at Andy’s Jazz Club is also noteworthy. From steak and burgers to salads and pasta, they have a wide selection of food that will undoubtedly please anyone attending the nightly shows. The venue has a full bar, with an extensive wine and beer list, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Standard table reservations are required
Overall, Andy’s Jazz Club is a classic Chicago experience that is not to be missed. With its rich history, intimate atmosphere, and high-quality performances, it’s a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one. Make sure to reserve a table in advance to ensure you get a seat for the nightly shows.
Untitled Supper Club
If you’re looking for a bar that offers both great live music and delicious food, then the Untitled Supper Club is a must-visit spot. Inspired by the roaring ’20s, this prohibition-era-designed restaurant boasts a lavish 18,000-square-foot live entertainment space featuring weekly music and titillating cabaret performers. You can enjoy a wide range of music genres, from jazz to blues, and their selection of deliciously crafted cocktails will appease anyone.
Not only is the Untitled Supper Club known for their live music, but their raw bar, pasta, and entrees also make it the quintessential spot if you’re looking for dinner and a show. They have one of the world’s largest selections of American whiskies, making it the perfect place to indulge in a drink or two while enjoying the music.
Located at 111 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, the Untitled Supper Club is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can easily secure a spot at the Untitled Supper Club by making a reservation on their website.
Overall, the Untitled Supper Club is a great place to enjoy a night out with friends, family, or a loved one. With its unique atmosphere, delicious food, and great live music, it’s no wonder why this spot is a favorite among many.
The Bassment
If you’re looking for a vibrant bar with live music in Chicago, The Bassment is a must-visit. Located below the Hampton Social, this bar welcomes patrons through a secret door that leads to a black curtain. When pulled back, it reveals a wide maroon-hued space with a design reminiscent of 1960s British nostalgia, with gold accents, brick walls, velvety couches, and a vast stage in the front of the room.
The Bassment is a cocktail lounge that serves up unique, handcrafted cocktails. With a selection of cocktails, including the notable “Bathtub,” this is a bar where the energy never dies down as you slowly become inebriated, dancing to anything from country to soul music. The bar has a selection of artists performing everything from R&B to funk to country, and there’s usually a packed dance floor, but you can also enjoy the music from a comfy couch in the back lounge surrounded by portraits of Tupac.
Whether you’re twirling around or sitting and listening from afar, there are an array of snacks, including short rib and mozzarella stuffed fried ravioli, with roasted pepper marinara, and Southern breading. The Bassment is an underground speakeasy with live music every Thursday through Saturday. For a $10 cover, you can listen to a wide variety of artists, and the energy never dies down as you slowly become inebriated, dancing to anything from country to soul music.
The Bassment is one of the most vigorous bars with live music in Chicago. With a selection of cocktails, including the notable “Bathtub,” this is a bar where the energy never dies down as you slowly become inebriated, dancing to anything from country to soul music. If you’re looking for a vibrant bar with live music in Chicago, The Bassment is the place to be.
Bronzeville Winery
Bronzeville Winery is one of the most vibrant restaurants with live music in Chicago on the southside. The inviting and beautiful space is cozy yet convivial, decorated with a revolving art collection, animated music, and an architectural design that makes it a beautiful space. The live DJ sessions add to the place’s exuberance, making it a lively spot to enjoy great food and music.
The restaurant boasts a deep wine selection that complements their elevated food menu. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. The Sunday brunch is a must-try, and the happy hour on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 pm to 6 pm is a great deal.
Bronzeville Winery is a perfect spot to enjoy live music while sipping on a glass of wine. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate vibe, making it a great place to unwind and relax. The restaurant also hosts DJ sets weekly, making it a lively spot to enjoy great music and drinks.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy live music in Chicago, Bronzeville Winery is definitely worth checking out. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere, deep wine selection, and elevated food menu make it a great spot to enjoy a night out with friends or a romantic evening.
Bub City
If you are looking for a country music bar in Chicago, Bub City is the place to be. This ACM-nominated venue features emerging musical talents who belt out your favorite country tunes every day of the week. The 16-foot stage positioned at the center of the 4,500-square-foot space ensures that you get a clear view of the performers.
Bub City is not just about the music. The menu features freshly smoked BBQ meats and mouth-watering platters, such as nachos, bub grande, and buffalo bites. You can also enjoy a selection of beer and cocktails that go smoothly with the food.
The ambiance at Bub City is cozy and inviting, with wooden floors, Christmas lights, and a vintage decor that adds to the country feel. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is top-notch.
If you are looking for a fun night out with friends, Bub City is the perfect spot. The lively atmosphere, great food, and amazing live music make it one of the best country music bars in Chicago.
Secure a spot at Bub City here.
Dusek’s
If you’re looking for a restaurant that caters to music, food, and drinks, then Dusek’s is the place to be. Located inside Thalia Hall, one of the city’s most ornate and treasured theaters, Dusek’s offers a Daily Tavern Menu that includes savory items, a Tavern Smash Burger, fresh oysters, cast-iron mussels, and wood-fire specials. It’s one of those rare places where you can indulge in delicious food and check out your favorite band right after without leaving the building.
The restaurant is centered around food, music, and drinks, and has a great bar that serves a long list of signature cocktails that are refreshing and sweet. The menu is focused on seasonality, creativity, and fun, and the woodfire oven gives folks a reason to slow down and enjoy a curated menu.
Head up to Thalia Hall and enjoy some of the most decorated bands that have played concerts here, including Laufey, Foals, Boy Pablo, and many more. This place is unforgettable if you’re looking for live music in Chicago.
Dusek’s is one of the best restaurants with live music in Chicago and is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves a good meal paired with live music. The restaurant is located at 1807 S Allport St, Chicago, IL 60608, and you can secure a spot at Dusek’s here.
Blue Chicago
If you’re a fan of authentic Chicago Blues, then Blue Chicago is a must-visit spot for you. Since 1985, Blue Chicago has been entertaining its patrons with high-energy performances in a warm and vibrant atmosphere. The club is renowned worldwide for its authentic Chicago Blues music and is a great place to listen to live music while enjoying a drink or two.
Located at 536 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, Blue Chicago offers an intimate setting that is perfect for experiencing the true essence of Chicago Blues. The club has a cozy and warm ambiance that welcomes visitors from all over the world. The musicians who perform here are extremely captivating, and their high-energy performances will leave you spellbound.
The club has a long history of presenting authentic Chicago Blues music and has become one of the most beloved spots in Chicago for live music. Whether it’s a Monday or a Saturday, you can always count on Blue Chicago to deliver a great performance.
If you’re planning to visit Blue Chicago, be sure to secure a spot by making a reservation here.
The Empty Bottle
If you’re looking for a no-frills venue with a laid-back atmosphere and great live music, The Empty Bottle in Ukrainian Village is a must-visit. This intimate concert venue has been a staple of the neighborhood since 1992 and has built its reputation on cheap drinks, a lack of pretension, and a dedicated crowd. The owners proudly describe it as a “hole,” and it’s precisely that vibe that keeps people coming back.
Over the years, The Empty Bottle has hosted a ridiculous number of bands that have gone on to become huge, like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Flaming Lips, Vampire Weekend, and The Strokes. It’s one of Chicago’s go-to venues for the hippest music, with craft beers and delicious cheap eats. The venue is known for having some of the best alternative concerts in Chicago, spanning a range of genres from rock to blues to jazz.
The bar itself is charmingly grungy, with a relaxed vibe that perfectly complements the music. You can expect to rub shoulders with a diverse crowd of music lovers, from college students to seasoned regulars. The drinks are affordable, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
If you’re looking for a quintessential Chicago experience, head to The Empty Bottle for a night of great music and good vibes.
Phyllis’ Musical Inn
If you’re looking for a classic Chicago dive bar with live music, look no further than Phyllis’ Musical Inn. This iconic venue has been around since 1954, making it the oldest music venue in Wicker Park. The bar is famous for showcasing local bands and offers free live music most nights, with a cover charge on weekends that varies depending on who’s playing.
Phyllis’ Musical Inn is the perfect place to hear young Chicago bands while enjoying cheap drinks in a no-frills setting. The bar has a loyal following of regulars who appreciate its unpretentious atmosphere and dedication to showcasing local talent.
The venue itself is small and intimate, with a cozy stage area that puts you right in the middle of the action. The decor is simple and unassuming, with vintage beer signs and a few scattered tables and chairs.
If you’re looking for a quintessential Chicago experience, Phyllis’ Musical Inn is not to be missed. With its long history, dedication to local talent, and unpretentious atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Chicago’s live music scene.
The Hideout
If you’re looking for a “regular bar for irregular folks,” then The Hideout is the place for you. This bar is located in a 19th-century house between factories and empty lots along the North Branch of the Chicago River. It has a reputation for hosting low-key and unusual sets by Chicago legends like Billy Corgan and Wilco, as well as acts from a wide array of genres and styles.
The Hideout has a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and it’s a great spot to catch some live music while enjoying a drink. The bar has a selection of craft beers and delicious cocktails, and it’s known for having some of the best alternative concerts in Chicago.
If you’re hungry, The Hideout also offers some tasty bar food. The menu includes classic bar snacks like nachos and wings, as well as heartier fare like burgers and sandwiches.
Overall, The Hideout is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a laid-back, intimate bar with great live music. Whether you’re a fan of indie rock, blues, or anything in between, you’re sure to find something you love at this Chicago gem.
The California Clipper
Chicago is a city known for its live music scene, and The California Clipper in Humboldt Park is one of the best bars to experience it. The Clipper has been a neighborhood staple since it opened as a speakeasy during Prohibition. Today, it’s a beloved Chicago institution that attracts locals and tourists alike.
The Clipper is known for its classy, retro interior and extensive range of classic cocktails. But what really sets it apart is the live music. Most nights, the Clipper features a range of acclaimed acts spanning soul, jazz, blues, and more. Whether you settle into a booth bathed in moody red light or get up and dance with the regulars, you’re in for a quintessential Chicago experience.
The California Clipper has been ranked as one of Chicago’s most historic and beloved bars, and for good reason. It’s a great spot to catch live music in a relaxed, intimate setting. The sound system is top-notch, so whether you’re listening to a jazz set or solo blues guitar, you’ll be able to hear everything with perfect clarity.
In addition to the live music, the Clipper also offers a range of pub grub to satisfy your hunger. The menu features classic bar fare like burgers and fries, as well as more elevated options like charcuterie and cheese plates. And of course, the drinks are not to be missed. The Clipper has an extensive cocktail menu that includes both classic and modern drinks, as well as a rotating selection of craft beers.
Overall, The California Clipper is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great live music experience in Chicago. With its classic atmosphere, talented musicians, and delicious food and drinks, it’s easy to see why the Clipper has become such a beloved institution.
Hungry Brain
Looking for a low-lit bar with retro rec-room furnishings plus arcade games, a jukebox & other entertainment? Look no further than Hungry Brain in Chicago. This bar is a Chicago institution located in Roscoe Village and is known for its quirky and intimate setting with a relaxed vibe.
Hungry Brain is famous for its improvised jazz shows that the bar had built its name on. The jazz music pours from the tiny stage at Hungry Brain, and the bar is known for having some of the best alternative concerts in Chicago. What’s more, many of the shows are free, and the drinks are cheap, making it a great value.
The bar is a hit or miss on how busy it will be, but whether you come on a Saturday night and find a few stragglers, or happen upon a Sunday where every guest in the bar is dancing to George Benson, you’re in for a quintessential Chicago experience. And if you’re feeling peckish, you can bring your own food to enjoy with your drinks.
Hungry Brain is undoubtedly one of the best live music bars in Chicago, and it’s a must-visit for any music lover.
Schubas Tavern
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy live music in Chicago, Schubas Tavern is a must-visit. Located in Lake View, Schubas Tavern is a popular spot for music lovers, hosting bands from across the US and the world. The venue has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for catching a live performance while enjoying a drink or two.
One of the unique features of Schubas Tavern is that you don’t have to pay a cover fee to enjoy the music. You can hang out in the front bar and soak up the music and atmosphere from a distance. However, if you want to get up close and personal with the performers, you can pay the cover fee and head to the back room.
Schubas Tavern has a great selection of drinks, including craft beers and cocktails. The food menu is also worth exploring, with a range of American pub-style dishes that pair perfectly with the live music.
Overall, Schubas Tavern is a great spot to catch a live performance in Chicago. With its intimate atmosphere, great drinks, and delicious food, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the best live music bars in the city.
Smoke Daddy BBQ
If you’re looking for a place that serves delicious barbecue and has live music every night, Smoke Daddy BBQ should be at the top of your list. Located in Wicker Park, Smoke Daddy BBQ has been serving up some of the city’s best barbecue since 1994. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is known for its top-quality barbeque, cold drinks, and live music. You can expect to hear blues, jazz, alt-rock, folk, country, and bluegrass every night of the week and on Sunday afternoons.
The restaurant is not just a place to grab a bite to eat, but also a venue for live music. Smoke Daddy BBQ has a stage where local and national artists perform every night. You can enjoy the music while you eat your meal or just come in for a drink and listen to the music. The restaurant has a full bar and a variety of beers on tap.
Smoke Daddy BBQ has a menu that features classic barbecue dishes like pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. They also have vegetarian options like the smoked tofu sandwich. The sides are just as delicious as the main dishes, with options like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.
Overall, Smoke Daddy BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for great barbecue and live music in Chicago. With its lively atmosphere, top-quality food, and talented musicians, it’s no wonder that Smoke Daddy BBQ is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Dearborn
If you are looking for a dreamy scene with live music in Chicago, The Dearborn is a great option to consider. Located at 145 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60602, The Dearborn offers live music during their weekend brunch hours. You can enjoy their signature tavern pizza, other brunch favorites, and seasonal cocktails while listening to live music as light shines through the glass.
In addition to the live music, The Dearborn offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with excellent service. The tavern-style menu features classic American dishes with a modern twist, and the bar offers a wide selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
The Dearborn is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be sure to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot. Whether you are looking for a romantic date spot or a fun brunch with friends, The Dearborn is a great choice for live music and delicious food in Chicago.
Overall, if you are a live music lover and want to enjoy a dreamy scene with great food and drinks, The Dearborn is a must-visit spot in Chicago.
Grapes and Grain
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some live music, Grapes and Grain is a great choice. Located in the heart of West Loop, this local gem features large exposed brick walls, vintage chandeliers, and intimate, dark red chesterfields.
According to their website, Grapes and Grain offers “sexy, sultry tunes by local talent almost every night of the week.” You can enjoy live music at GG on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM. On Thursday night, there are no minimums and no live piano fee. On Friday and Saturday nights, the piano fee is $10 per person.
In addition to live music, Grapes and Grain offers a custom-built wine wall cabinet and a custom-built bar. They also have a vintage baby grand piano located in the center of the restaurant.
If you’re still looking for something to do on Christmas, Grapes and Grain is hosting a Christmas singalong. Or, if you’re feeling spontaneous, you can try to grab a seat at one of their music nights.
Overall, Grapes and Grain is a great spot to enjoy some live music in a cozy and intimate setting.
The Press Room
If you’re looking for a new tradition to start, The Press Room’s concert series might be just what you need. This iconic speakeasy hosts a 90-minute show every Sunday, and you can still book tickets for their December concert series at $30 per person. The Press Room is a must-visit if you’re looking for a unique live music experience in Chicago.
Located at 1134 W Washington Blvd, The Press Room is a spacious venue that offers a unique atmosphere for live music. The concert series is just one of the many reasons why this venue is becoming increasingly popular. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and experience the magic of The Press Room.
The Press Room is not only a great live music venue, but it’s also a speakeasy that serves up some of the best cocktails in town. Their signature drinks are a must-try, and you can enjoy them while listening to some of the best local talent in the city.
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable live music experience in Chicago, The Press Room is definitely worth checking out. With its iconic speakeasy atmosphere, great cocktails, and fantastic live music, it’s no wonder why this venue is quickly becoming a new tradition in the city.
Bottom Lounge
Looking for a place with a huge bar, full-size restaurant, and live music? Look no further than Bottom Lounge, located at 1375 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607. With 18,000 square feet of space, this venue is where the activities are at!
Bottom Lounge’s event calendar features big names from pop to rock to musical, such as Broadside and The Home Team. You can take a quick look at their event calendar here.
It’s worth noting that proof of vaccination is required at Bottom Lounge, and they no longer accept a negative test result as an alternative.
Overall, Bottom Lounge is a great spot to grab a drink, enjoy a meal, and catch some live music.
The Green Mill
You cannot claim to have explored Chicago’s live music scene without stopping by The Green Mill. This iconic bar has been around since 1907 and has hosted many famous musicians such as Al Capone’s favorite singer, Joe E. Lewis. The Green Mill has a retro vibe with its art deco decor, dim lighting, and cozy booths. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some live music.
The Green Mill features live music almost every night, and you can find the full calendar on their website. The variety of music genres is impressive, ranging from jazz to swing to blues. You can come in casual attire or dress up for a night out. The Green Mill has a strict no-talking policy during performances, which adds to the intimate atmosphere.
The bar serves a range of drinks, including classic cocktails and craft beers. The food menu is limited, but the pizza is a must-try. The Green Mill has a cover charge, which varies depending on the night and the performance. The bar is cash-only, so make sure you bring enough cash for drinks and cover charge.
The Green Mill is located in the Uptown neighborhood at 4802 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640. It’s easily accessible by public transportation, and there is street parking available. The bar opens at 4 pm on weekdays and 12 pm on weekends and stays open until 4 am.
If you’re looking for a classic Chicago live music experience, The Green Mill should be at the top of your list.
