Marty's Martini Bar Chicago

MAR-teeny-tiny bar

Erin from Chicago

""Marty's Martini Bar" in Chicago is the kind of bar where you know you're among adults. The atmosphere's great but what's even greater are the drinks..."

Marty’s is one of those places on a side street you might never know existed if you don’t live in the neighborhood. When you walk in, the lights are always low with just enough candlelight to remind you that this is no kids bar, you’re among adults, and adults who like a good drink. Marty’s delivers on ambiance. There are floor-to-ceiling, velvet curtains in the front window to keep it cozy, flanked by massive 1930s graphic art prints on the walls. The shelving behind the bar reminds me of a classy Parisian cocktail bar. It has rows of back-lit martini glasses and a gold and crimson decorative backsplash with a giant, gold-framed mirror peering over our juniper juice.

That leads us to the whole reason one goes to Marty’s, not just the atmosphere, but the drinks! Don’t fret if a dirty martini or olives aren’t your thing. I’ve tried several of their sweeter martinis and I often order wine or another kind of cocktail altogether. It’s full-service!

The majority of Marty’s patrons are gay men and the average age is probably 40, but all good people are welcome. My wife and I came to Marty’s after a successful first dinner date and we were probably the only two women in the bar, but we knew we were among friends. It’s a lovely, dapper joint not to be missed out on.

Bars

This week 25% off

with the code fall25

*on our yearly membership

Chicago Spotter Erin

About me For work, I am a custom prosthetics specialist known as an Anaplastologist. Our field focuses on creating highly realistic, life-like prostheses for the face and body as an alternative for patients who cannot (or choose not to) undergo reconstructive surgery. My professional community is very small and I have colleagues all around the world. Outside of work, my wife and I love to travel as much as possible. We are suckers for good ambiance, a healthy glass of wine. Life is short, we want to enjoy every second. Why Chicago I have lived in Chicago ...

About this spot

West Balmoral Avenue 1511

Most cocktails:

USD

Social

Oct 2, 2025

Our Chicago City Guide

Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Chicago guide.

Loved it? Join us!

Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Chicago

Luft Balloons

Decorating Chicago with balloons

Luft Balloons in Chicago isn't just a balloon shop – it's a female-operated & owned business that makes balloon sculptures specifically for marches...

Shopping

Sophie

Amado

Nov 24, 2025

Lincoln Tap Room

Dive with great drink specials

Lincoln Tap Room offers unmatched drink specials, retro vibes, and Steelers pride in a cozy, no-frills space on lively Lincoln Avenue.

Bars

Sophie

Amado

Nov 21, 2025

The Catcade

Cat cafe+arcade

The arcade-themed Catcade in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood has been a crucial stop for all cat lovers since 2017 — play games, cuddle cats, adopt!

Coffee & tea

Relaxing

Sophie

Amado

Nov 21, 2025

La Creperie

Chicago's staple French restaurant

I've been going to La Creperie on Clark since I was a kid and it has never disappointed me — don’t miss the dreamy back patio and cozy French classics.

Restaurants

Sophie

Amado

Nov 20, 2025

TARY Coffee House

Kazakh specialty cafe

There are many unique food options to try on their menu like Bylamyk porridge with raspberry jam, Baursak (fried dough bites) or Truffle Mushroom Soup.

Coffee & tea