Once upon a time, secret gems were scattered throughout the city. It was a lucrative time for luxury hideaways, where jazz was booming and burlesque burned down the house. While the Prohibition era is now only mentioned in history books, where smugglers are an old tale, speakeasies are more common than ever. Although not as hidden, speakeasies are still a place to have a cocktail in a decadent space. There are many humble treasures in the city, from a hotel room that became a bar in the sky to a secret hair salon, here are our favorite Chicago bars that are hidden in plain sight.
Mile High Cocktail Club
A bartender hands out two cocktails in a floral glass with a garnish on top at Mile High Cocktail Club in ChicagoPhoto: courtesy of Mile High Cocktail Club
The first on our list is located high above Magnificent Mile in the Four Seasons Hotel. It’s an exclusive cocktail spot to remember, filled with vibrancy, style and exciting drinks. The experience begins even before you take off.
Nisos
A new nightlife hotspot near Fulton Market. Upstairs at Nisos, The Lounge is an inviting, hidden cocktail bar (hint: look for the bookshelf) tucked away on the second floor of Nisos Prime. The 2000 square foot room offers an amazing carefree night out full of energy and music and transports guests to the nightlife of the Mediterranean.
Soif Wine Lounge
Located under Testiaccio, Sofio Wine Lounge is a Parisian escape. The cozy room is a dimly lit bar tinged with red and decorated with large velvet chairs, antique tables and candles. Choose a drink from the collection of French wines that will transport you to the south of France.
Blind Barber
There are few speakeasy bars in Chicago where you can get a haircut during the day and dance to a DJ in the evening. The Blind Barber looks like a barbershop, but when you walk behind it, the space opens up into a 70s-style bar with cocktails and a spacious dance floor.
Drifter
Located under the basement of the Green Door Tavern, The Drifter is an authentic 20s era venue that exudes restraint while also turning into a showcase space. When you step into The Drifter, you step onto the same floor where drifters have been treading for over 100 years.
With a permanent list of more than 100 cocktails featured on tarot cards and nightly performances, this hidden gem is perfect for cocktail lovers and history buffs alike.