The Ukrainian Village in Chicago is a 10×10 block neighborhood next to West Town where you can find it all. The bars are great, and the people watching is even better, a perfect combination. Grab a beverage at any of these bars or better yet, combine them into a bar crawl. Considering this neighborhood is plenty walkable you can easily hit several on this list in one night!
Their slogan is “hugs, drinks, high five,” could you imagine a more welcoming environment? Open until 2:00 a.m. everyday you can get a little sloppy any day of the week you choose (we won’t judge). They have a jukebox as well so come ready with some songs in mind. It has this half dive, half not dive vibe going on that works well for this intimate bar.
This pub has a history of over 30 years, and is famous among the art community. This eclectic space complete with interesting knick-knacks and posters, looks small from the outside but has plenty of space on the inside. Free pool and a classic cork dart board can be played while you sip one of their many brews.
A pub mixed with Anglo-Indian fare? How can you not visit this gem!? They have a menu ranging from, what’s described to be, the best burger in Chicago (ok might be a stretch but still good) all the way to chicken tikka fries. They have a wide variety of beer and cider that you can pair with your butter chicken. Plus, if you go on a Monday night, you get the famous burger for just $12 – and it comes with a drink!
First off, they have bocce ball leagues. Bocce ball hardly requires exercise so you can play while you get a little tipsy. Plus, if you want to watch sports in the Ukrainian Village, this is where to go – especially for soccer (they have the entire schedule on their website). They have great weeknight food specials, brick oven pizza, and an “everyone is welcome here” environment. As their website states – Breakup? Cleos. Drinks with co-workers? Cleos. Just because you want to drink? Cleo’s.
This bar is your indie music go-to. Although the space is small, it is filled with charm from the staff, and eclectic ambiance. The drinks are cheap but the quality is anything but. They have a fleet of dedicated regulars ready to give you advice on the neighborhood. They are cash only, but there is an ATM inside in case you forget. Check their website for upcoming live performances!
Happy hour here is a must, especially if you like oysters! Their happy hour runs Sundays 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Mondays 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. where oysters are $1 and you can pair them with $6 martinis. While you can’t make reservations for happy hour, there’s usually a spot! It’s a cute place to hangout and relax, but just know their food menu is a little limited so check it out before you go!
Open 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. everyday, Rainbo Club is dark, oddly themed, and local centric, just like a good dive bar should be. Although, the locals are generally social and will welcome you to their spot! Of course the drinks are cheap, and Rainbo Club even has a pinball machine to keep you entertained. Like many dive bars and others on this list, bring cash!
This bar is named after the 1960s bohemian freethinkers, and is incredibly interesting to look at inside. From the artwork to the lighting, and even the tables themselves, you will feel as though you’ve been transported. The vibe is best described as a tropical Mediterranean paradise that has an elegant twist. Whatever you do, get dessert! They have outstanding creations such as the Honey Whipped Cream, and the Pistachio and Rose White Chocolate Crunch!
Featured Image Credit: UrbanMatter
