Marty's Martini Bar Chicago – MAR-teeny-tiny bar

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.