aliveOne is my favorite bar in Chicago for several reasons: the friendly staff, daily happy hour specials, a cozy atmosphere, the staff debate on what the bar’s name means; I could go on and on.

The front room is painted red and the walls are covered with black and white photos of rock musicians and vintage concert posters. Above the front bar, a decorative, eye-catching American flag takes center stage. It’s the kind of bar where you’ll notice something different each time you’re there. aliveOne also has a pool table, comfy couches surrounding the space, and a backroom stage that hosts local musicians, literary readings, comedy shows, and other event varieties.

Perhaps my favorite aspect of aliveOne is that whether it’s a Monday night or a packed Saturday evening, the bar never feels overwhelming, too crowded, or rowdy. Any visitor can find a space to occupy themselves and enjoy a pint of cold beer while chatting with a friend or dancing the night away in the back space on weekends. Also, while aliveOne doesn’t serve food, it’s in a prime area for nearby restaurants of various cuisine, making it a great before or after dinner stop. It’s a Lincoln Park hidden treasure.