There are a lot of things Chicago does right—sports and pizza are no-brainers—but they absolutely nail happy hour, too.

Whether you’re wrapping up a long day of work in the financial district, want to unwind with a glass of wine by the river, or are just looking for the best deal during your vacation to Chi-Town, we’ve rounded up all of the top spots to catch happy hour in Chicago.

While we do our best to keep this list updated, rates and menu items are subject to change. Check each location's website for the most up-to-date offerings.

The Best Happy Hour Deals in Chicago

RIVER NORTH

Diver

River North

Wait, is this Chicago or Tulum? This trendy Mexican restaurant is like a tropical hideaway in the middle of the city, and it’s the perfect spot to forget your worries while soaking up the good vibes. From 4 to 6 pm on Tuesday through Friday, there are plenty of great deals, but the best of the best is their margarita and taco bundle—a marg and a taco of your choosing for just $10. 

Happy Hour: Tuesday–Friday from 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Where: 601 N Wells St, Chicago, IL
More information.

Bar Cargo

This colorful Roman pizza bar is a can’t-miss spot in River North. Try their next-level Italian fare, and wash down your pie with $5 drinks Wednesday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. 

Happy Hour: Wednesday–Friday from 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Where: 605 N Wells St, Chicago, IL
More information.

The Smith

This bright American brasserie offers some truly unique beverages as part of its happy hour special. On weekdays from 3 pm to 6 pm, patrons can try their tasty French 75 slushie, make their own mule, or taste their cucumber loco or Gatsby concoctions. One thing to note: the happy hour deals are only at the bar, so skip the table and keep it casual! 

Happy Hour: Monday–Friday from 3 pm–6 pm
Location: 400 N Clark St., Chicago, IL
More information.

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! bills itself as Chicago’s original tapas bar, and its Spanish food still remains some of the best in the city. You’re going to want to try one of everything at this legendary spot, and their awesome happy hour allows you to do just that on a budget! Taste the pintxos for $1.50, tapas from $2.50-$3.50, and red sangria pitchers for $20.

Happy Hour: Every day from 4 pm–6 pm in the bar and lounge area only.
Location: 2024 N Halsted St., Chicago, IL
More information.

LOOP

City Social

City Social prides itself on having “something for everyone,” from modern bar food to classic drinks with a twist. If you stop by this upscale-but-casual theater district hang on Monday through Wednesday between 4 and 6 pm, you can snag $4 Draft Krombachers, $6 glasses of bubbly, $4 City Pale Ales, and $5 mini black & tans.

Happy Hour: Monday-Wednesday from 4 pm–6 pm
Where: 120 N LaSalle St., Chicago, IL
More information.

WICKER PARK

The Perch

This industrial-yet-airy grill has an onsite brewery, so, naturally, their happy hour is the perfect time to taste-test some incredible house brews. On Monday through Thursday from 2 pm to 5 pm, pints are $5, and flights are just $8. Oh yeah, and you can also pay just $10 for a snack plus a beer and a shot. 

Happy Hour: Monday-Thursday from 2 pm–5 pm
Where: 1932 W Division St., Chicago, IL
More information.

WEST LOOP

Trivoli Tavern

Stepping into Trivoli Tavern feels like stepping into a different world with its dim lighting, lush palms, and unique antler chandeliers. The ambiance screams “Old World,” and their happy hour prices feel like a throwback, too! Every day from 4:30 to 5:30 pm, tavern dwellers will find $5 deals on everything from mussels to sliders to mixed drinks and brews.

Happy Hour: Monday–Friday from 4:30 pm–5:30 pm
Where: 114 N Green St., Chicago, IL
More information.

Kinton Ramen

Authentic Japanese grub with a killer drink deal on the side? What more could you want? Kinton Ramen offers Sapporos for $2, sake for $3, glasses of wine for $4, and cocktails for $5 every weekday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. 

Happy Hour: Monday–Friday from 4 pm–7 pm
Where: 163 N Sangamon St, Chicago, IL
More information.

Punch Bowl Social

This massive former meatpacking factory offers everything from shuffleboard to ping pong to bocce to bowling and even virtual reality games, but most importantly, it has one of the best happy hours in the city! From 4 to 6 pm every Monday through Thursday, Punch Bowl Social offers a wide selection of snacks ranging from just $6 to $11 and a slew of beers, wines, and mixed drinks like punch (naturally) for just five bucks! 

Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday from 4 pm–6 pm
Location: 310 N Green St, Chicago, IL
More information.

NEAR NORTH SIDE

Gilt Bar

Near North Side

Unwind from a long work day at this sultry library-themed spot. The $5 happy hour specials include everything from tasty high-end bites to delicious drinks. Wanna lean into the vintage vibe? Order the old-fashioned.  

Happy Hour: Every day from 4 pm–5 pm
Where: 230 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL
More information.

Sparrow

This sophisticated art-deco Cuban restaurant will have you feeling fancy while sipping on rum cocktails and craft beers. From Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 7 pm, grab $5 drafts and $10 wines by the glass! 

Happy Hour: Wednesday–Friday from 4 pm–7 pm
Location: 12 W Elm St, Chicago, IL
More information.

Happy Camper

There is no better spot for a casual (and extremely fun) happy hour than Happy Camper. This funky industrial pizza shop knows how to start the party with half-off glasses of wine, espresso martinis, and salads from 3 to 6 pm Monday through Friday, plus a killer charcuterie board for a mere $10 and a few other tasty $5 sides. 

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday from 3 pm–6 pm
Where: 1209 N Wells St, Chicago, IL
More information.

SOUTH LOOP

VU Rooftop

This whimsical yet modern rooftop lounge comes with incredible views of the lake and all of downtown, but if the ambiance isn’t enough for you, the happy hour sure will be. Some of their lighter bar fare is just $5 a plate, and they all pair perfectly with their drink deals, like $8 sangrias and $5 Miller High Lifes.

Happy Hour: Mondays–Thursdays from 4 pm–6 pm
Where: 133 E Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL
More information.

ANDERSONVILLE

Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar

Uvae’s upscale American fare is delicious at any price, but $2 oysters and shrimp is hard to beat. Pair those with a $5 draft prosecco and stylish bar, and you’ve got the makings of a truly fantastic post-work nosh that will make you feel more than a little bougie.

Happy Hour: Wednesday–Friday from 5:00 pm–6:30 pm; Saturday–Sunday from 3 pm–6:30 pm.
Where: 5553 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
More information.