Best-of list · Neighbourhood Guide
Discover the best bars in River North, Chicago. Premium cocktail lounges, rooftop bars, and upscale drinking destinations in the heart of downtown.
The short answer
10 ranked rooms follow. How we picked is at the end of this guide.
River North has long been Chicago's premier bar district, a neighborhood where polished cocktail lounges sit alongside rooftop terrace bars overlooking the city skyline. Located in the heart of downtown between the Chicago River and the Loop, this district pulses with energy from morning through late night. The bars here represent the pinnacle of Chicago's drinking culture, combining sophisticated service with world-class spirits programs.
The neighborhood's character is distinctly upscale yet accessible. You'll find everything from slick hotel bars serving classic cocktails to modern gastropubs serving innovative small plates alongside carefully curated beer selections. River North caters to those seeking elevated drinking experiences without pretension.