Best Bars in West Loop Serve Craft Beer and More

Kicking off with best bars in west loop, this vibrant neighborhood in Chicago has become a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts and those looking for a unique nightlife experience. From hidden gems to rooftop bars with scenic views, you’ll find it all in our selection of best bars in West Loop.

Here we dive into the best bars and pubs that serve the city’s most renowned breweries, offering an extensive selection of craft beers. Whether you’re searching for an intimate setting or a lively atmosphere, our expert guide will lead you to the top destinations.

We explore where to find live music in West Loop after dark, including secret speakeasies, exclusive bars and even rooftop spots with city views. Discover hidden bars in West Loop, microbreweries, live music bars and rooftop bars with unique views of the city skyline.

Uncovering the Hidden Gems: Best Bars in West Loop That Serve Craft Beer

In a neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife scene, the West Loop is a treasure trove of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Among these, several bars stand out for their extensive selection of craft beers, creating a haven for beer enthusiasts. As the sun sets in this bustling Chicago neighborhood, the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses fill the air, beckoning visitors to explore the depths of these craft beer bars.

Craft Beer Bars Worth a Visit

From trendy taverns to sophisticated speakeasies, the West Loop is home to a diverse array of craft beer bars that cater to all tastes and preferences. Some of the standout bars include:

Lou’s City Q:

At this trendy barbecue joint, the selection of craft beers is almost as diverse as the menu of creative BBQ options. With over 150 beers on tap, Lou’s City Q offers a unique beer pairing with each dish, allowing beer enthusiasts to experience the perfect harmony of flavors.

Beers can be paired with a variety of delicious barbecue dishes, such as St. Louis-Style Pork Ribs and Slow-Braised Brisket, making it perfect for those looking to indulge their senses.

The Allis:

Located in the Kimpton Gray Hotel, this stylish bar and lounge boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, and a seasonal menu featuring creative twists on classic American fare. Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of beers, such as the Allis Lager or the Kimpton Gray IPA, which pair perfectly with dishes from the bar’s extensive menu.

Its beautiful view of the nearby streets of West Loop, the lounge offers an enchanting ambiance that invites visitors to unwind and indulge in a relaxing evening.

SmallBar:

Hidden in a nondescript alleyway, this cozy bar has a secret entrance that requires a keen eye to spot. With an ever-changing selection of over 20 craft beers on tap, visitors can try a new beer every visit, or stick with a favorite. The menu features an array of gourmet pub fare, making it easy to pair beers with food for the ultimate beer experience.

A local favorite, SmallBar attracts a diverse crowd of beer enthusiasts looking for a unique experience.

West Towne:

A true hidden gem, this craft beer bar boasts an impressive selection of over 25 beers on tap, featuring both local and international brews. Visitors can relax in the stylish atmosphere and enjoy a cold beer paired with a variety of gourmet small plates, from charcuterie to artisanal cheeses.

Its discreet location and exclusive atmosphere make West Towne a favorite among locals and beer connoisseurs alike.

One notable aspect that sets these craft beer bars apart is the support they give local microbreweries. By collaborating with local breweries and providing them with a platform to showcase their unique beers, these bars contribute to the neighborhood’s thriving bar scene. This support fosters a sense of community among beer enthusiasts, breweries, and bars, creating a synergy that ultimately benefits everyone involved.

Where to Find Live Music in West Loop After Dark

After sunset, the West Loop transforms into a vibrant destination, with its upscale bars, intimate music venues, and eclectic dining spots. One of the highlights of a night out in West Loop is the live music scene, which contributes significantly to its energetic atmosphere. A variety of bars and music venues offer an eclectic mix of genres and styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Intimate Bars for Live Music Without a Cover Charge

For a more exclusive music experience, consider visiting the following intimate bars, where you can enjoy live music without having to pay a cover charge.

The Allis: Located in the Soho House, The Allis offers an intimate setting for live music performances. With its cozy atmosphere and diverse music selection, it’s an ideal spot for locals and visitors looking for an authentic experience.
The Violet Hour: This stylish bar features live music performances, often with a focus on jazz and blues. The venue’s elegant decor, combined with its expertly crafted cocktails and exceptional music, makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy great music.
Lost Lake: This hidden gem offers live music performances in an intimate setting, often with a focus on local and emerging artists. With its unique decor and creative cocktails, Lost Lake is the perfect spot to discover new music and connect with fellow music lovers.

The live music scene in West Loop is a testament to the area’s vibrant cultural landscape. From intimate bars to larger venues, there’s always something happening, whether it’s a live performance, a music festival, or a concert. This eclectic mix of music and entertainment contributes to the area’s lively atmosphere, making West Loop a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Chicago’s music scene.

Exploring the Best Speakeasy Bars in West Loop: Best Bars In West Loop

As the sun sets in West Loop, the bars and clubs come alive, offering a nightlife experience like no other. However, for those seeking something more exclusive, secretive, and authentic, the speakeasy bars in West Loop are the perfect choice. Tucked away in hidden corners, these bars offer an immersive experience that’s akin to stepping back in time, complete with craft cocktails and a sophisticated ambiance.

Exclusive Entrances and Hidden Spaces, Best bars in west loop

In the vein of classic speakeasies, West Loop’s exclusive bars take secrecy to a whole new level. Two of the most notable examples are:

The Violet Hour

Located in the West Loop’s trendy Fulton Market area, The Violet Hour is a stylish, upscale bar that requires a password to gain entry. Hidden behind a nondescript door, this speakeasy-style bar boasts an elegant interior with lavish decor and a focus on expertly crafted cocktails. To gain entry, simply visit their website and request a password.

The Office

Located in a nondescript office building, The Office is another secretive West Loop speakeasy that’s sure to impress. Hidden behind a door with a clever sign, this speakeasy-style bar offers a range of craft cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere. Be sure to arrive early, as capacity is limited.

Recommended Cocktails in West Loop’s Speakeasy Bars

In these exclusive West Loop bars, the craft cocktail game is taken to new heights. Here are some must-try cocktails at The Violet Hour and The Office:

The Violet Hour:

Eastside: A refreshing blend of gin, cucumber, lime, and soda water.
The Nightcap: A rich, velvety mix of bourbon, coffee liqueur, and cream.

The Office:

The Office Spritz: A bubbly, revitalizing combination of rosé, lemon-lime soda, and elderflower liqueur.
Sunset in Paris: A sophisticated blend of gin, Aperol, lemon, and honey.

Craft Cocktail Bars in West Loop with Experienced Bartenders

As the West Loop continues to thrive as a hotspot for Chicago’s nightlife, the demand for exceptional cocktail experiences has never been higher. Among the numerous bars and lounges in the area, a select few stand out for their commitment to serving top-notch craft cocktails crafted by experienced bartenders. One of the most significant factors contributing to the success of these bars is the expertise of their bartenders.

The Importance of Experienced Bartenders

When it comes to elevating the craft cocktail experience, knowledgeable and skilled bartenders play a pivotal role. They bring a depth of understanding to the mixing of creative concoctions, effortlessly navigating the nuances of flavor profiles and ingredients to craft truly memorable drinks. At bars in the West Loop where experienced bartenders reign, customers can expect everything from innovative takes on classic cocktails to entirely new creations, all expertly tailored to their tastes.

Bars with Exceptional Craft Cocktail Experience

Two standout establishments in the West Loop where knowledgeable bartenders offer handcrafted cocktails using unique ingredients are Revival Food Hall and Sleeping Village.

Revival Food Hall: This dynamic food hall boasts an impressive cocktail program that showcases the expertise of its bartenders. From classic Old Fashioneds to inventive creations like the Saffron Gin Fizz, the drink options here are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. The bartenders’ dedication to using only the finest ingredients and their willingness to experiment with new flavors make Revival Food Hall a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
Sleeping Village: This trendy cocktail bar is a hidden gem in the West Loop, offering a range of expertly crafted drinks that blend traditional techniques with innovative flavors. Their menu changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest ingredients available and the bartenders’ constant pursuit of creativity. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Whiskey Sour or something more exotic, Sleeping Village has got you covered.

At bars like Revival Food Hall and Sleeping Village, the experience extends far beyond the drinks themselves. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with attentive bartenders happy to guide you through the menu and offer recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a new spot to try, these establishments are sure to impress.

The Best Patios in West Loop for Social Events

When the sun shines bright, West Loop transforms into a vibrant hub of social activity, with its best patios becoming the go-to spots for gatherings, events, and everyday relaxation. From casual meetups with friends to more formal corporate events, West Loop’s patios offer the perfect blend of atmosphere, comfort, and convenience.

Designing an Ideal Patio Layout for Social Events

A well-designed patio layout can make all the difference in creating a memorable social experience. To achieve this, consider the following elements:

Seating areas: Provide a mix of comfortable seating options, such as plush sofas, chairs, and hammocks, to cater to different preferences and group sizes.
Shade structures: Incorporate canopies, umbrellas, or pergolas to provide shade and protection from the elements, ensuring guests can enjoy the space regardless of the weather.
Lighting: Installing string lights, lanterns, or fairy lights can add a magical ambiance to the patio, perfect for evening events or gatherings.
Decorations: Incorporate plants, flowers, or green walls to bring in a touch of nature and create a sense of tranquility.

Examples of Popular Social Events Held in West Loop’s Best Patios

From weddings and baby showers to corporate events and networking mixers, West Loop’s patios have hosted an array of memorable events. One popular example is the rooftop patio at The Allis, which offers breathtaking views of the city and a chic atmosphere perfect for upscale social gatherings.

Imagine sipping champagne and enjoying small plates while taking in the stunning views of the city skyline.

Some notable events that have taken place in West Loop’s patios include:

The annual Chicago Food Truck Festival, which draws in foodies from all over the city to sample the best of Chicago’s culinary scene.
The West Loop Summer Fest, a vibrant celebration of music, art, and culture that takes over the neighborhood’s streets and patios.
Corporate team-building events, such as scavenger hunts and networking mixers, which utilize the patios as a central hub for activities and relaxation.

One popular social event that highlights the best of West Loop’s patios is the annual West Loop Block Party, where local restaurants and bars come together to offer a wide range of food, drink, and entertainment options. The event usually takes place in July and attracts thousands of attendees.

Imagine strolling through a vibrant neighborhood, sampling cuisine from local eateries, and enjoying live music in the midst of West Loop’s charming patios. With its ideal location, diverse selection of venues, and picturesque atmosphere, West Loop’s patios have become the go-to destination for social events and everyday relaxation.

Unique Bars in West Loop that Offer Live Sports Viewing

When the game is on, West Loop’s sports bars come alive, attracting fans of all ages with their high-energy atmosphere and endless opportunities for socializing and cheering on their favorite teams. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a basketball enthusiast, or a baseball aficionado, West Loop has something for everyone.

Best Bars for Live Sports Viewing in West Loop

For an immersive sports-watching experience, head to one of these two exceptional bars in West Loop.

Madison Pub: This beloved institution has been a West Loop staple for over 15 years, offering a vast selection of beers, delicious pub grub, and multiple large screens broadcasting the latest games. Their sports-friendly menu includes mouth-watering burgers, crispy chicken wings, and an assortment of sandwiches, ensuring you’ll never go hungry during the big game. Be sure to check out their dedicated sports bar, equipped with a projector and comfortable seating for an intimate viewing experience.
The Sports Corner: Located in the heart of West Loop, this sports bar is a must-visit for any sports enthusiast. With a massive selection of beers, delicious pub fare, and a lively atmosphere, The Sports Corner is the perfect spot to catch the game with friends and family. Their impressive sports menu includes everything from classic burgers to inventive creations like the “Sports Sandwich” – a mouth-watering combination of Italian sausage, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese.

From the passionate fans to the lively atmosphere, sports bars in West Loop offer an unforgettable experience for spectators of all ages. These gathering places not only provide a venue for watching live sports but also a platform for people to come together, share excitement, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Review

In conclusion, West Loop’s best bars are the perfect combination of atmosphere and amenities, ranging from speakeasy bars and rooftop bars with scenic views to craft cocktail bars and sports bars with live music. Whether you are looking for an adventurous nightlife experience or a relaxed atmosphere to socialize, West Loop offers endless options that cater to every unique taste and preference. So come and experience the vibrant nightlife in West Loop!