Best Cocktail Bars in Little Italy / University Village

56 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Three Dots and a Dash restaurant

1. Three Dots and a Dash

4.7

Exceptional(1837)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)

Booked 67 times today

With a secret alleyway entrance, Three Dots and a Dash is a speakeasy-style take on the traditional island bar—ready to transport you to the glamorous bygone eras of Trader Vic, Stephen Crane and Don the Beachcomber. Descend underground to discover a subterranean hideaway featuring a rum-soaked menu of more than two dozen classic, modern and original tropical cocktails and a selection of island fare. We are a 21+ venue.

A photo of Rooftop at Nobu Hotel restaurant

2. Rooftop at Nobu Hotel

4.6

Exceptional(884)

Price: Very Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • West Loop

Booked 11 times today

Experience the pinnacle of Japanese cuisine at Rooftop at Nobu Hotel, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop. This restaurant is not just about dining; it's an immersive experience that combines breathtaking city views with the authentic flavors of Japan. Patrons rave about the "exceptional food" and "top-notch service," where every dish from the yellowtail to the wagyu dumplings is crafted to perfection. The ambiance is equally praised, with one guest noting, "The view was absolutely beautiful, food seriously amazing and service was a 10/10!!" Whether it’s a special occasion or a desire to indulge in culinary excellence, Rooftop at Nobu Hotel promises an unforgettable experience with its exquisite Japanese offerings and stunning rooftop setting.

3. Chateau Carbide

3.7

Very Good(212)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)

Booked 16 times today

Chateau Carbide, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a gem for those seeking authentic and quality Tapas/Small Plates. This botanical-driven, absinthe-inspired cocktail bar not only offers a stunning rooftop view but also excels in delivering meticulously crafted light bites that have left guests raving. Diners have praised the "outstanding presentation" and the array of flavors, especially noting the "cheese and meat hors d’oeuvre" and "fries with pistachio crumbles and crème fraîche dip" as a delightful surprise. The atmosphere, described as the "perfect blend of lively and gorgeous," enhances the dining experience, making Chateau Carbide a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in small plates with big flavors.

4. The Violet Hour

4.6

Exceptional(160)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 44 times today

The Violet Hour, nestled in the lively Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, is a beacon of Dining Bar excellence, celebrated with a prestigious James Beard award. This venue shines with its seasonally-driven cocktails crafted by the visionary head mixologist Toby Maloney, offering an experience that is both intimate and exhilarating. Patrons rave about the "unique and delicious" drinks and the "terrific atmosphere" that makes it easy to enjoy conversations without the usual din. The sprawling marble bar and candlelit ambience add to its allure, making it a must-visit for those seeking a top-tier dining bar experience. As one reviewer puts it, it's "the best hospitality experience I’ve ever had," highlighting the exceptional service and sophisticated environment that make The Violet Hour a standout destination in Chicago's vibrant culinary scene.

5. Fioretta

4.7

Exceptional(851)

Price: Very Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • West Loop

Booked 87 times today

Fioretta, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, is celebrated for blending an old-school Italian steakhouse with modern sophistication. This gem delivers an unparalleled steak experience, with guests raving about its "spectacular price to value ratio" and the "best steaks in Chicago." The dry-aged bone-in ribeye and the Florentine steak, perfect for sharing, are standouts on the menu, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Fioretta's custom-built solid-fuel hearth ensures each steak is cooked to perfection, imparting a unique char and texture that elevates the dining experience. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual night out, Fioretta promises an exceptional steak journey, making it a top spot for steak lovers in the city.

6. Lazy Bird

4.5

Awesome(7)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • West Loop

Booked 4 times today

Located in the cellar level of The Hoxton, Chicago hotel, Lazy Bird is a cocktail and music lounge in Chicago’s Fulton Market District. Known for its extensive signature cocktail program, luminary bartenders, live music, and low lighting, Lazy Bird hums with energy every evening, making it the perfect start, middle, or end to a night on the town.

7. The Alderman

4.9

Exceptional(212)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Pilsen

Booked 19 times today

Winner of the 2022 Jean Banchet Award for Best Bar, THE ALDERMAN is an intimate, 16-seat cocktail bar tucked away, behind closed doors, within Pilsen Yards. The cocktail list rotates some of its original cocktail features, while the twists on American classics are staples of the cocktail list.With a plush velvet banquette and a 4-seat counter, it’s the perfect room for a night cap, a date, or a casual evening of one to several astonishingly good cocktails.

8. HIDE + SEEK

4.4

Awesome(341)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • West Loop

Booked 49 times today

HIDE + SEEK in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a gem for cocktail enthusiasts, offering a blend of comfortable elegance and innovative drink options. This cocktail bar stands out for its "fresh takes on classic cocktails" and has swiftly become a favorite for its unique beverage program. Patrons rave about the "amazing cocktails" and the high-quality service, creating a memorable ambiance that's both welcoming and sophisticated. One review exclaims, "The drinks were absolutely delicious!" highlighting the skill and creativity behind each concoction. Whether it's for a lively happy hour or a sophisticated night out, HIDE + SEEK promises an exceptional cocktail experience that makes every visit special.

9. Celeste

4.5

Awesome(189)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)

Booked 1 time today

Celeste, located in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is a beacon for cocktail aficionados. This multi-level venue shines with its Deco Supper Club, where the drink menu features craft cocktails that pay homage to Chicago's glamorous architectural history. Patrons rave about the "imaginative cocktails" and the "next level" mixology, with one guest exclaiming the cocktails are "made to perfection!" Whether it's the beautiful rooftop garden, the lively disco, or the classic Whiskey Bar, Celeste offers a unique vibe on each floor, making it a must-visit for a memorable night out in Chicago. The staff's attentiveness and the consistently praised service make every visit exceptional, ensuring that Celeste stands out not just for its drinks but for the overall experience.

10. Bordel

4.5

Awesome(40)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 31 times today

Bordel, a gem nestled in Chicago's vibrant Wicker Park, is a cocktail connoisseur's paradise. Known for its captivating Parisian speakeasy ambiance, Bordel promises an unforgettable experience with its high-quality, creative cocktails that perfectly complement the nightly cabaret shows. Patrons rave about the "delicious drinks" and the exceptional service, with one guest celebrating the "best burlesque show in town." The unique blend of burlesque, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails makes Bordel not just a bar but a destination. As one reviewer puts it, "It's all the sexy red room vibes you can handle," making every visit a spectacular adventure in Chicago's nightlife.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
Darold
Dallas - Fort Worth •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Just an outstanding experience. The ambience and the drinks and service were top notch. It is a bit dark in the room, however my wife and I felt it added to the environment as we arrived at 9:30pm. We can’t wait to go back
More info
The Violet HourPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Bucktown / Wicker Park
•
4.6
N
NikkiVIP
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
It was an absolutely wonderful Christmas Eve dinner. We enjoyed everything from the food, to the music to the ambience. It truly made for a magical holiday dinner. Our server Andras was next level exceptional - attentive, friendly, knowledgeable and just a joy all evening. 5 stars!
More info
FiorettaPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• West Loop
•
4.7
M
MichaelVIP
Los Angeles •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
I had an incredible experience at Three Dots and a Dash the evening of 12/22/2024. We had reservations in the Bamboo Room, which is a quieter, more intimate, rum focused experience. Matt, the bartender that evening, was fabulous; attentive, thoughtful, engaged, and friendly. We ordered a few drinks from the menu then asked Matt to create something special for us and his drinks did not disappoint. My experience with Tiki and rum drinks is decent; having visited almost every Tiki bar from San Diego to San Francisco (including Trader Vic’s at SJC), Tacoma to Seattle, & a Mai Tai tour across Oahu). 3 Dots is a must do, especially if you are a tiki or rum fan. Food was great too. Next time I fly back to Chicago I will definitely visit again.
More info
Three Dots and a DashPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
E
ElizabethVIP
Chicago / Illinois •22 reviews
4.0
Dined on Dec 12, 2024
Delicious sushi - get the baked crab role! Great spot for catching up with friends!
More info
Rooftop at Nobu HotelPrice: Very Expensive• Cocktail Bar• West Loop
•
4.6
J
Jason
Chicago / Illinois •46 reviews
4.0
Dined on Oct 3, 2024
Just had drinks. They were good. Nice rooftop spot.
More info
Chateau CarbidePrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• River North (Chicago)
•
3.7

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Little Italy / University Village

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Best Cocktail Bars in Little Italy / University Village

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56 restaurants available nearby

1. Three Dots and a Dash

2. Rooftop at Nobu Hotel

3. Chateau Carbide

4. The Violet Hour

5. Fioretta

6. Lazy Bird

7. The Alderman

8. HIDE + SEEK

9. Celeste

10. Bordel

See what locals rave about

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