Bars, restaurants, clubs, and venues open after 5. Hours, phone numbers, and vibes included.
The Lyric Opera House in Chicago stands as a beacon of cultural elegance, hosting world-class operatic performances in its opulent, acoustically perfected venue. Its sophisticated ambiance and engaging productions make it a worth visiting destination for discerning patrons seeking the pinnacle of artistic and nightlife excellence.
A Chatham gem on 75th Street where the corned beef is legit, the jerk wrap slaps, and the peach cobbler is the kind of thing you text people about. Mabe's is a South Side sandwich shop that punches way above its weight — small spot, huge flavor, and the kind of care in every plate that chain restaurants could never replicate.
A West Side soul food anchor where the fried catfish is golden, the oxtails fall off the bone, and the mac and cheese is made by someone's grandmother (or should be). MacArthur's is the kind of place you go when you want to eat like you're at a family reunion. Comfort food done right, every single day.
The best of both worlds on Division Street — a massive beer selection, walls of TVs for game day, and wood-grilled food that actually delivers. Mac's is where Wicker Park comes to watch the Bears and Bulls without sacrificing food quality. More sports bar than restaurant, in the best way.
Combining high-end design with incredible food, this sophisticated Hyde Park destination explicitly celebrates the global African diaspora. Premium fusion plates like Creole seafood étouffée and jerk proteins pair with artisanal cocktails. The space transforms during late weekend nights into a high-energy lounge with elite mood lighting — widely regarded as a top upscale destination to enjoy late-night cocktails and premium comfort food on the South Side.
Spanish seafood and wine bar. Gourmet paella, fresh charcuterie, and a world-class Spanish wine list. Elegant, luxurious, cinematic. Summer wine tastings and flamenco guitar on select Thursdays.
Chicago's most famous deli, period. Manny's has been slicing corned beef and serving cafeteria-style since 1942, and the line of politicians, cops, lawyers, and regular Chicagoans proves it. The corned beef is stacked impossibly high, the staff will roast you with love, and the matzo ball soup is a city treasure. If you haven't been to Manny's, you haven't really eaten in Chicago.
Ultra-modern luxury steakhouse in the Gold Coast where the scene is as glamorous as the menu. Maple & Ash brings tableside theatrics, impeccable cuts, and a cocktail program that justifies every cent. This is date-night steakhouse dining at its most polished.
Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar in Bridgeport is where you grab craft spirits from the retail side then slide into the intimate cocktail bar for some of the city's most inventive drinks. Attached to Kimski and packed with serious beer and whiskey selections, it's the hybrid spot locals hit when they want both a bottle to take home and a killer nightcap.
High-volume dispensary known for a large selection of local strains, flower, and edibles. Welcoming, secure, and community-oriented. 2.5 miles south of the Little Village Arch.
Loop newcomer Mariela comes from James Beard semifinalists Rishi Kumar and Zubair Mohajir of Mirra fame. The menu spans Southeast Asia to the Americas with standouts like seafood arroz negro with uni hot sauce, king crab agnolotti, and tom yum aguachile with Thai herbs and coconut.
Heavy party-centric seafood venue with massive bar crowd focused on oversized micheladas and live bands. Langostinos, Ceviche Tostadas, Fish Tacos, Clamato Oyster Shots.
Marlins Bar and Grill is a popular spot in Lyons, known for its late-night hours and welcoming atmosphere. After dark, it becomes a go-to destination for drinks and live music, making it a staple of the local nightlife scene.
The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Chicago, is a top for adults seeking world-class musical theater, featuring award-winning productions and stellar performances by renowned artists. Its elegant ambiance, paired with exceptional dining options, makes it a worth visiting for discerning patrons looking to experience the best in live entertainment.
Martyrs' is a Lincoln Square mainstay for live music since 1999. Intimate 350-cap room hosting Americana, rock, jazz, blues, and comedy. Known for its character, strong cocktails, and eclectic booking.
A beloved neighborhood craft brewery tucked in the industrial belt of McKinley Park, serving rotating taps of creative small-batch beers in a cozy taproom setting.
Embracing a modern, welcoming dining environment, this restaurant delivers a rich culinary exploration of Bangladeshi, Indian, and Pakistani recipes. Talented chefs utilize premium ingredients and traditional techniques to craft highly aromatic curries, tender tandoori meats, and masterfully blended spice combinations. Exceptional service and extended late-night hours on weekends make it a comfortable sit-down feast destination.
Mas Alla del Sol is a modern mexican in Edgewater, serving Chicago's north side.
Mastro's delivers butter-poached filet mignon, towering seafood towers, and a swanky lounge with live music nightly. The national chain's Chicago outpost holds its own in a city full of legendary steakhouses.
West Loop's Maxwell Street Depot is where the city's late-night crew gravitates for no-frills drinking and genuine neighborhood grit—think exposed brick, strong pours, and the kind of crowd that actually lives here. The spot stays open around the clock, making it the reliable anchor when everywhere else has called last call. It's not trying to be fancy, and that's exactly why locals keep coming back.
Operating since 1912, Maxwell Street Market is one of Chicago's most historic open-air markets. Located at 800 S Desplaines St, the Sunday market is a cornerstone of multicultural Chicago commerce featuring hundreds of diverse vendors selling artisan goods, vintage items, and authentic street food.