In Chicago, where cocktail prices have soared, several bars and restaurants offer a refreshing break from the norm. These establishments serve quality mixed drinks without the sticker shock, making them a rarity in a market where a basic cocktail often costs $17.
Among the options, you will find a $7 margarita or a $10 Negroni. Better yet, the deals aren’t limited to fleeting happy hours. These venues offer them on the regular menu, all day.
The list features dive bars, historic taverns, pubs family-friendly, and a celebrated cocktail establishment. Here are some highlights:
240 Lounge
If your night out involves watching UFC, playing on a pool table, and sipping affordable cocktails, consider 240 Lounge. This Albany Park sports bar offers cocktails priced between $7.50 and $8. Notable choices include a whiskey sour, Crown Royal peach sunrise, and a seasonal mojito priced at $8. Micheladas are $10, and a Brazilian old-fashioned costs $9. Friendly bartenders add to the appeal at this neighborhood staple.
Address: 3948 W. Lawrence Ave.
Contact: 773-267-0474
Social: 240 Lounge Facebook
Belmont Tavern
Belmont Tavern keeps cocktails at $12. This Avondale bar reopened after 25 years dormant. Vintage furnishings, church pew seating, and restored details give it a neighborhood vibe. The menu features 26 cocktails sorted by spirit. You’ll find classics and house creations such as Freshly Mowed Lawn and Unclarified Milk Punch.
Address: 3405 W. Belmont Ave.
Web: Belmont Tavern
Cove Lounge
In Hyde Park, Cove Lounge is a neighborhood fixture. The bar has a mahogany anchor and decorations that depict local influence. Cocktails like old-fashioneds, whiskey sours, and margaritas cost $10. Specialty “Cove-tails” offer options such as Lake Michigan and Butterscotch Martini for $12.
Address: 1750 E. 55th St.
Contact: 773-684-1013
Social: Cove Lounge Instagram
Esmeralda’s Lounge
Esmeralda’s Lounge in Humboldt Park offers a tropical setting and late-night energy. Cocktails like margaritas and mojitos are priced at $10. Spirit-forward drinks like caipirinhas reach up to $12.
Address: 2539 W. Division St.
Contact: 312-479-7121
Web: Esmeralda’s Lounge
Gideon Welles
Lincoln Square’s Gideon Welles provides family-friendly vibes. Cocktails range from $10 to $13. Enjoy selections like house Manhattan and picante margarita for $10. Mule variations allow for creative passport stamps.
Address: 4500 N. Lincoln Ave.
Contact: 773-907-2226
Web: Gideon Welles
Gus’ Sip & Dip
Ranked #27 in North America’s 50 Best Bars, Gus’ Sip & Dip maintains affordable pricing in River North. Despite its accolades, all cocktails remain at $12. The menu features classics and contemporary choices across diverse spirits.
Address: 51 W. Hubbard St.
Contact: 312-736-0163
Web: Gus’ Sip & Dip
Mac’s Wood Grilled
Mac’s Wood Grilled is housed in the former Schlitz Brewery Tied House. Their menu includes $5 bloody marys and house vodka cocktails. Seasonal mules and lemonades are $6. With game-day screens and patios, it’s a community favorite.
Address: 1801 W. Division St.
Contact: 773-782-4400
Web: Mac’s Wood Grilled
Taquería Primo Chuki’s Uptown
Taquería Primo Chuki’s Uptown offers cocktails mostly under $10. The menu features red sangria and flavored margaritas. Even indulgences like watermelon margaritas stay budget-friendly at $9.99.
Address: 1708 W. Lawrence Ave.
Contact: 872-208-7075
Web: Taquería Primo Chuki’s Uptown
The Radicle
Opened by Daisies’ team, The Radicle in Logan Square focuses on inventive cocktails. The $10 menu includes playful riffs and creative infusions. The $12 section offers richer combinations like Catholic Guilt and Scoop of Blue Moon.
Address: 2523 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Contact: 312-488-4069
Web: The Radicle
Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Roost Chicken & Biscuits in Roscoe Village features Southern comfort cocktails for $7. Drinks like bourbon-spiked peach tea and jalapeño margarita meet $10 boozy shakes. Alcohol is available exclusively at this location.
Address: 2011 W. Roscoe St.
Contact: 312-261-5564
Web: Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Wil’s Martini Lounge
Wil’s Martini Lounge offers martinis for $11 to $13, targeting Andersonville’s LGBTQ+ community. While full-size martinis cost up to $18, smaller servings are economically priced.
Address: 1478 W. Catalpa Ave.
Social: Wil’s Martini Lounge Instagram
Author: Eva Remijan-Toba
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