Discover our locals' 114 hidden gems in Chicago

Let's hit it! Discover Chicago’s local favorites with Spotted by Locals! From jazz clubs tucked away in the Loop to the best deep-dish pizza outside the tourist zones, our Spotters reveal the city’s true character.

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City guides by those who know Chicago best!

Get to know our Spotters from Chicago

Check out our latest hidden gems in Chicago

Things to do in Chicago

Chicago Athletic Association

Library bar

The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...

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Art & culture
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Bars
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Snacks

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

Monk's Pub

Craft beer bar in the Loop

Monk's Pub is a snug beer bar suitable for anyone looking for a pint or their next meal. It's smack in the middle of Chicago, but you really can't tell...

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Bars

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

Long Room

A cozy long room bar

"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!

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Bars
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Restaurants

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

Four Moon Tavern

Dive bar with panache

"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!

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Bars

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

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!

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Restaurants

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

Pasta Bowl

Pasta to die for

"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.

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Restaurants

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

Bungalow

Natural wine meets fresh bread

I am always stunned by their appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.

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Restaurants

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 14, 2025

aliveOne

Cozy music bar

aliveOne in Lincoln Park offers rock vibes, local music, a cozy atmosphere, pool, comfy couches, and the perfect spot to unwind or dance the night away.

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Bars

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 11, 2025

Side Street Saloon

Dive bar with pizza

Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.

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Bars

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 11, 2025

Reggies Chicago

Bar with music and shuttles

Reggies Chicago is a grunge bar, concert venue, and shuttle hub with great eats, Sox game packages, a beach bar and unique events like a pancake art show.

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Bars

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 11, 2025

KOVAL Distillery

Craft distillery

KOVAL Distillery doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark — the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.

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Bars

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 10, 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...

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Coffee & tea
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Relaxing

By

Sophie

Amado

Feb 10, 2025

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