50 bars, restaurants, clubs, and venues open after 5. Hours, phone numbers, and vibes included.
4.5 stars, 1,500 reviews. Zabiha Halal. Solo dining in a cozy casual atmosphere. Smoked meats and comfort food.
Tucked into Lakeview's north side, Nisei Lounge is a hidden gem where locals gather for grassroots fundraisers and unpretentious nights out, all within a weathered, neighborhood-centric space. Its low-key energy and commitment to community events set it apart from typical bars, making it a go-to for those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path Chicago fun.
Tucked into Evanston's Custer Street corridor, Oskar is an intimate whiskey bar with a curated brown-spirits menu and daily happy hour. Open until midnight on weekends, it's the kind of low-key hideaway that rewards those who know where to look.
Neighborhood hideaway bar on the Lincoln Square/Ravenswood border. Classic homemade pub food, tavern wings, billiards. Relaxed, quiet, friendly, unhurried.
Prairie Moon brings regional American comfort to Evanston with an extensive draft list, a deep whiskey shelf, and a relaxed neighborhood feel. Northwestern grads and longtime locals share the bar in a space that's warm without trying too hard.
Family-friendly casual American restaurant on Archer Ave serving classic American fare with a craft cocktail program. Neighborhood staple in the Garfield Ridge area.
Unpretentious corner dive bar in Lincoln Square. Darts, craft beer, and a relaxed local crowd. Outside food delivery welcomed from surrounding pizzerias. Nostalgic, competitive, friendly.
Dog-friendly craft cocktail and beer bar in Rogers Park's Glenwood Ave arts district, open until 3am on Saturdays. The solid happy hour and laid-back neighborhood energy make it the far North Side's go-to after-dark spot.
Tucked into Ravenswood, Rojo Gusano pairs refined Mexican street food with nightly live music in a warm, relaxed setting. The kitchen blends traditional Mexican flavors with global influences — come for the tacos, stay for the set.
Music-centric South Side bar and grill with a casual, neighborhood vibe. Comfort food menu paired with live music performances and a laid-back atmosphere.
# Soul Veg City Soul Veg City on the South Side proves plant-based soul food isn't a compromise—it's an upgrade, with crispy fried "chicken" and creamy mac that'll convert even the skeptics at your table. Hit it pre-game for a proper meal that actually sticks with you, or roll through late-night when the vibe shifts to low-key and real. The greens are legitimately fire, and nobody's leaving hungry.
Locals know Sunnyside in River North isn’t just a dispensary—it’s a sleek, low-key spot where the staff’s product expertise rivals the art galleries nearby. Perfect for a quick, informed browse before dinner or a late-night stroll down Clark.
Tucked inside Thunder Bowl in Mokena, The Alley Grill & Tap House serves up smoky BBQ ribs and crispy fried chicken alongside craft beer on tap—perfect for late-night games of pool or darts until 12:30am. Locals swear by the laid-back vibe and the ever-present buzz of sports on every screen.
Features a vast selection of craft beers and a casual atmosphere.
Seeking a spot where Pilsen’s laid-back energy meets impeccable craft beer? The Bungalow delivers a relaxed vibe and a stellar selection, perfect for unwinding with locals who know the neighborhood inside out. No pretense, just great pours and easy conversation.
A classic dive bar known for its laid-back vibe and cheap drinks.
Stylish cocktail bar on the Lincoln Square-Ravenswood border pouring craft cocktails with a relaxed neighborhood feel. Happy hour starts at 3pm on weekends, and the bar stays open until 3am on Saturdays for the night owls.
West Side gentlemen's club with 4.4 stars from nearly 1,000 reviews. Opens at 4PM daily on Lake Street with a laid-back vibe and loyal local following. A neighborhood fixture for late-night adult entertainment on the West Side.
Pilsen's go-to post-concert spot sits right across from Thalia Hall with affordable craft cocktails and a chill vibe that keeps the night going until 3am on Saturdays. It's the perfect second stop after a show on 18th Street.
Lakeview’s The Long Room is a local haunt where craft beer meets board games in a laid-back, neighborhood vibe. Skip the crowds—this spot’s all about quality brews and easygoing banter with regulars.
A fun bar with a relaxed vibe, known for its cocktails and outdoor space.
Laid-back Southern soul food lounge on the South Side featuring live jazz performances in an intimate setting. Known for down-home cooking and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Offers an extensive whiskey selection and a relaxed vibe.
River North's Wake n Bakery serves up pastries and brunch in a cozy space that works as a low-key start to a bigger night out. Coffee by day, cocktails by evening, and a vibe that keeps things chill in one of the city's busiest neighborhoods.