10 Best Bars to Travel to This Weekend in the West Loop

The Hippest Neighborhood in Chicago

Everyone knows that the West Loop is the place to be. This meatpacking district turned international hub has the nightlife chops to back it up. We have compiled a list of the best bars to grab a beer or cocktail this weekend in the West Loop.

 

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Lone Wolf

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Lone Wolf

806 West Randolph Street

We can’t think of another bar in the West Loop that does a better job of blending comfortability with style than this neighborhood bar. An approachable atmosphere meets uniquely crafted cocktails, alongside simple yet appreciated eats like Chicago-style hot dogs. These are only a few reasons why this one might be our hands-down favorite in the neighborhood. Try the Rosemary Sling.

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Haymarket Pub & Brewery

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Haymarket Pub & Brewery

737 West Randolph Street

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This place is another neighborhood hangout that just had to be included. The people behind this centrally-located brewpub are serious about beer, and trust us, they definitely aren’t lacking in the food department either. House-made brews alongside delicious bites are always just what the doctor ordered. Take one of their tours and try their Aleister American IPA.

 

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The Betty

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Eric Kleinberg for The Betty

839 West Fulton Market

This dimly lit bar in the loop is reminiscent of a distant era, with classic handcrafted cocktails, vintage furnishings, and music that’s played solely on vinyl. Whether you’re meeting clients for dinner, going on a date, or just grabbing a drink with a friend, this place has you covered. Try the Expat’s Elixir.

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The Allis

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: The Allis

113 North Green Street

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Named after the family behind its historic building, this portion of Soho House that’s open to the general public smoothly transitions from a daytime lounge offering tea and breakfast bites to an evening hotspot serving some of the best cocktails in the neighborhood. Try the Picante de la Casa.

 

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Bottom Lounge

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Bottom Lounge

1375 West Lake Street

This one-stop shop famously located underneath the Lake Street ‘L’ tracks is both a popular live music venue and an official Blackhawks bar in the West Loop, offering buses to the games. They offer pretty straightforward bar food that’s actually really good, and there’s nothing like pairing a good ol’ fashioned burger with your favorite domestic bottle.

 

Wise Owl

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Wise Owl

324 South Racine Avenue

This is one of those places that’s just all-around great. The food here is seriously to die for, and the cocktails are just as amazing. It’s got a comfortable atmosphere and welcoming staff. You really can’t go wrong if you choose to stop here for a night out. Try their signature cocktail, The Wise Owl.

 

Smyth + The Loyalist

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: The Loyalist

177 North Ada Street

To clear any confusion, Smyth and The Loyalist are two different concepts within the same space. While Smyth offers multi-course communal-style dining fitting for other occasions, we’re strictly talking about The Loyalist here. This bar in the West Loop features gourmet food to satisfy your appetite. However, they take their cocktails to the next level. Try the Innocents Abroad.

 

Richard’s Bar

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Jeremy Lawson

491 North Milwaukee Avenue

Need we say more? Locals know this as the haunt that’s been around for-e-ver, and there’s no question that it’s the undisputed definition of a dive bar. There’s no frills, no fancy bartenders trying to impress you. It’s just a great place to gather. This place is old school, so if you’re not bothered by people smoking cigarettes, then you’re in the clear. There’s nothing here to “try,” just order a beer for Christ’s sake.

 

Kaiser Tiger

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Kaiser Tiger

1415 West Randolph Street

If you’re a summer patio kind of person (aren’t we all?), then this is the spot if you’re in the West Loop. A string-lit area with comfortable seating makes for a great atmosphere to enjoy light and shareable appetizers followed by drinks. This place mainly offers beer and their draft list is extensive. Try ’em all.

 

The Aviary

best bars west loop
Photo Credit: Youtube

955 West Fulton Market

The name alone kind of just makes you straighten up a little bit. This is one of the hottest bars in the West Loop, period. It’s five-star quality, so expect five-star prices. But if you’re up to treating yourself, you won’t be disappointed. The bartenders here take cocktails as seriously as a science. We can’t even begin to tell you what to try here because we know everything is mind-blowing.

Featured image credit: Lone Wolf

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