Side Street Saloon Chicago – Dive bar with pizza
I don't think there's a more quintessential dive bar than Side Street Saloon in Lakeview, Chicago. It's one space that juxtaposes two very common Chicago spots; there's a dive bar in the front and an Italian restaurant vibe in the back. Side Street Saloon, as its name implies, is a corner bar in a residential neighborhood. It's oblong and houses a pool table, jukebox, bar stools, and booths to chow down on cheese curds, affordable thin-crust pizza (that may be my favorite pizza ever), or "beer buddies" aka stuffed potato skins.
This bar has no frills but draws in all kinds of people looking to relax after work or on the weekend. It's a quirky space where you may find a pumpkin-flavored beer on the menu in July or a group of friends playing Connect Four at the table during the winter. At Side Street Saloon, you won't find "Instagramable" moments, but rather it's a great spot to unwind, put your phone away, and chat with locals or whoever you may be sitting with!
If you're here in the fall, consider stopping by to watch a Bears game and order their consistently succulent pizzas that easily wash down with a cold pint.
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in Chicago
Marty's Martini Bar – MAR-teeny-tiny bar
"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...
By
Erin
Stevens
Vegan Plate – Hearty Thai food
I'm not vegan but I do think that "Vegan Plate" in Lincoln Park is one of the best bang-for-your-buck restaurants in Chicago. Try the curry combo plate!
By
Sophie
Amado
Annette's Italian Ice – Walk-up window Italian ice
"Annette's Italian Ice" Chicago offers an array of ice, ice cream and smoothie concoctions. I always try something different which becomes my new favorite!
By
Sydney
Epstein
AlleyCat Comics – Speakeasy meets bookstore!
"AlleyCat Comics" in Chicago is a colorful wonderland hidden in a classic 'coach house'. It's really a secret gem where speakeasy meets bookstore feeling.
By
Erin
Stevens
Cornelia Arts Building – Local artist studios
"Cornelia Arts Building" in Chicago is a converted industrial studio right by the train tracks -- it's been decades ahead of this art trend...
By
Erin
Stevens
OMI Cafe – Japanese Dessert Café
OMI has many good menu options, but their Japanese dessert toast is their all-star. Think of it as a fluffy French toast served with vanilla ice cream.
By
Lydia
Schultz
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...
By
Sophie
Amado
La Creperie – Chicago's staple French restaurant
I've been going to "La Creperie" on Clark in Chicago since I was a kid and it has never disappointed me...
By
Sophie
Amado
Verzenay Chicago – Fabulous French Bakery
Their chocolate croissant is flakey while still being chewy and buttery without being heavy. Verzenay also has a selection of macarons, quiches and more.
By
Lydia
Schultz
Eleven City Diner – Retro breakfast spot
"Eleven City Diner" in Chicago is a chic, retro-themed diner with checkered tiles and plastic booths. I love it for brunch - leave the candy for later!
By
Sydney
Epstein
Smack Dab Chicago – Great Breakfast Sandwiches
They are known for their breakfast sandwiches, particularly the "Bestest Seller", made with sausage, garlic chive mayo, and cheese on a homemade biscuit.
By
Lydia
Schultz
Download our app now and know your way!
Our Spotters' Local Favorites Only. Skip the Tourist Traps.
Find Nearby Spots and Navigate with Ease
Save Your Favorites and See Them on the Map
Know your way in Bars and navigate with ease!
✓ Full access to 0 local favorites. Zero tourist highlights.
✓ Get to know our 0 Spotters and ♥ their recommendations.
✓ Save favorites and show them on the map.
