Sips & Socials: The Best Happy Hour Spots In & Around Chicago

Whether you tryna kick back after work, link with the crew, or vibe solo with a strong cocktail and good eats,

Chicago (and nearby spots) got options.

Inside the City:

STK Steakhouse

9 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL

Chic AF with a sleek crowd. STK offers a killer happy hour with discounted cocktails, bites, and yes—vibes. Great for after-work flexin’ or a flirty linkup.

RPM Steak

66 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL

Fine dining without killing your pockets. Their bar bites and drink specials during HH hit different. Classy crowd, strong pours. Dress cute.

Ocean Prime

87 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL

Luxe seafood & strong martinis? Say less. Ocean Prime’s happy hour is elite and lowkey—perfect for impressing someone or treating yourself.

Bodega

912 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL

The underground vibe here gives speakeasy energy. Unique drinks, dim lighting, and a nice lil happy hour menu for the foodie in you.

Storyville

712 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

New Orleans in the Chi! From hurricanes to Cajun bites, this spot brings the flavor and the fun—especially during happy hour.

GHOST DONKEY

Fun lil hidden gem located in the basement of Bodega Taqueria.

Happy Hour is Monday–Saturday, but Sunday is happy hour ALL DAY. The décor is wild, the drinks are strong, and the energy? Immaculate.

Bar Louie (Various Locations)

Reliable. Affordable. Bar Louie is that friend you can count on when you just want some decent apps, drinks, and a seat. Plus, they rotate drink specials and always have a good happy hour lineup.

Outside the City: Hidden Gems Worth the Drive

Mingles Bar & Grill

Lansing, IL

Listen… Mingles got them strong drinks and the oysters slap. It’s giving grown and sexy with a lil hood flair. Pull up, order a cocktail, and mind your business with a side of shellfish. You’re welcome.

Phlavz Bar & Grille

Orland Park & University Village

Good food, R&B playlists, and drinks that’ll sneak up on you. They serve Caribbean vibes with every dish and the happy hour makes it even sweeter.

Red Star Kitchen & Bar

Matteson, IL

A solid Black-owned fave with a cozy lounge feel, good portions, and happy hour deals that don’t play. Great spot for catching up with the crew or sliding in for a solo vibe.

Bernice’s Bar & Grill

South Suburbs

A lowkey local gem where the drinks are strong, the service is solid, and the people are always cool. A good spot to pregame or end the night.

Soho House –

West Loop (Members & Hotel Guests)

If you got the plug or the card, Soho House’s lounge areas and rooftop bar offer a high-end happy hour that’s calm, cool, and boujee.

Quick Tips Before You Sip:

Always check updated happy hour times—some menus vary by day or location.

Call ahead for seating if you’re rolling deep. Drink responsibly (or at least eat something with it,). Tip your bartenders if you can

Got a spot we should add to the list? DM us on IG: @Travelwdayy or drop your faves in the comments!


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