The Absolute Best Bars in Arlington Heights [Updated 2024]

Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to explore, this list has something for everyone.

I've personally reviewed 12 unique bars, each with its own distinct vibe, menu, and atmosphere.

From cozy, neighborhood hangouts to lively establishments perfect for a night out, you'll find a wide range of options to suit your mood.

Get ready to discover hidden gems and beloved staples that serve up delicious drinks and great company.

Arlington Ale House

Highlights
Great bartending by Eric
Safe and enjoyable atmosphere
Friendly and personable service
Homey vibe for patrons
Knowledgeable staff

Arlington Ale House is a gem that perfectly captures the spirit of Arlington Heights' nightlife. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the homey vibe that enveloped the space, making it feel like an inviting haven for both locals and newcomers. The atmosphere bubbles with a delightful energy, yet it also offers a sense of safety and comfort—essential qualities for any bar experience.

What truly stood out, however, was the exceptional bartending by Eric. Not only was he knowledgeable about the extensive drink menu, but his engaging personality made each interaction a pleasure. Whether I was asking for a recommendation or striking up a conversation, Eric was nothing short of personable and friendly.

The staff’s familiarity with their craft was impressive, with every drink prepared with care and expertise. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail or something a little more adventurous, Arlington Ale House has you covered. This bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a spot where you can unwind, connect with others, and truly soak in the spirit of the community. Overall, I highly recommend making a stop at Arlington Ale House for a memorable night out!

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Sports Page Bar & Grill Arlington Heights

Highlights
Cozy booth seating
Delicious Black Jack Burger
Refreshing pitcher Mai Tais
Efficient and attentive service
Reasonably priced menu

When you step into Sports Page Bar & Grill Arlington Heights, you're instantly welcomed by a cozy atmosphere that invites you to kick back and unwind. I nestled into one of the inviting booth seats, perfect for a casual outing with friends or a spirited game night. The highlight of my visit? The mouthwatering Black Jack Burger—it's a culinary masterpiece that I can't recommend enough! Juicy, flavorful, and paired with crispy fries, it was the ultimate comfort food.

As I sipped on a refreshing pitcher of Mai Tais, the ambiance around me buzzed with excitement. The bar's vibrant energy seemed perfectly matched with the delightful cocktails on offer. What truly stood out was the efficient and attentive service; my server ensured I had everything I needed without missing a beat.

With a menu that's both reasonably priced and diverse, I found myself eagerly scrolling through options. From classic bar bites to hearty meals, there's something for everyone. If you’re searching for a spot that combines great food, sharp service, and a lively environment, don't hesitate to make Sports Page Bar & Grill a part of your night out in Arlington Heights. This charming local gem is definitely worth a visit!

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Cortland's Garage Arlington Heights

Highlights
Great food and service
Spacious outdoor seating
Huge portions of tasty food
Ice cold beer
Baby table in men's bathroom

First off, I have to say that this place deserves a round of applause for its great food and service. The staff was attentive and welcoming, making me feel right at home. And let's talk about the food! The portions were huge, and the taste was superb. As someone who appreciates good food, I was impressed with their menu options.

If you're looking for an outdoor spot to enjoy a drink or two, Cortland's Garage has got you covered. They have spacious outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying cold beer while soaking up some sun. Speaking of beer, they serve it ice-cold - just how I like it!

But wait, there's more! One thing that really caught my attention was the baby table in the men's bathroom. Yes, you read that right - a baby table! Now dads can change their little ones' diapers without having to leave the restroom.

Overall, Cortland's Garage Arlington Heights is definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a place with good food, great service, and an excellent atmosphere. Don't forget to bring your appetite because their portions are no joke!

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Peggy Kinnane's Irish Restaurant & Pub

Highlights
Friendly staff
Great corned beef sandwich
Reasonable prices
Beautiful color scheme
Excellent service

First of all, I must say that the staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. They made me feel like a regular from the moment I walked in. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to feel like Norm from Cheers when they walk into a bar?

Now on to the important stuff - the drinks and food! I ordered their famous corned beef sandwich and it did not disappoint. It was so good that I couldn't help but order another one for the road. The prices were also very reasonable, which is always a plus.

The decor of Peggy Kinnane's is also worth mentioning. The beautiful color scheme really sets the mood for a cozy Irish pub experience. You'll forget you're in Illinois and think you've been transported to Dublin.

Last but not least, the service was excellent. My glass was never empty, my sandwich arrived promptly, and my server even recommended some great local spots to check out after my meal.

Overall, Peggy Kinnane's is definitely one of the best bars in Arlington Heights. If you're looking for a place with friendly staff, delicious food and drinks, reasonable prices, and great service - this is your spot!

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Lola's Pizza & Tiki Bar

Highlights
Best tiki bar
Friendly staff
Superb drinks
Unique artifacts
Changing menu

First things first, I have to say that Lola's is hands down the best tiki bar I've ever been to. From the moment you walk in, you're transported to a tropical paradise with all sorts of unique artifacts lining the walls. It's like being on vacation without leaving Arlington Heights.

But what really sets Lola's apart from other bars in the area is their friendly staff and superb drinks. The bartenders are knowledgeable and always happy to help you choose the perfect cocktail. And let me tell you, their drinks are top-notch. Whether you prefer something sweet or strong, they've got something for everyone.

One thing to note is that Lola's menu changes often, so it's always exciting to see what new pizzas or cocktails they'll come up with next. But no matter what they're serving up, everything is always delicious.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun night out with great drinks and an atmosphere that can't be beaten, Lola's Pizza & Tiki Bar is definitely worth checking out. Just don't blame me if you find yourself booking a one-way ticket to Hawaii after a few too many Mai Tais!

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Mago Grill & Cantina

Highlights
Fresh, delicious food
Warm & crispy tortilla chips
Must-try live guacamole
Huge portion sizes

First of all, let me tell you that this place is not just a bar, it's a full-blown restaurant with some amazing drinks. The interior decor is impressive and creates a lively atmosphere for all the patrons.

Now let's talk about the food - oh my goodness! The chips were warm and crispy, and the guacamole was out of this world. If there's one thing you have to try here, it's their live guacamole. You'll see why it's called "live" when they make it right at your table. It's so fresh and delicious that you'll be tempted to order another round.

The portion sizes are huge, which was perfect for sharing with my friends. We tried several dishes like fajitas and enchiladas, and everything tasted fantastic. The chefs really know how to cook up some authentic Mexican flavors.

If you're looking for an upscale dining experience with great drinks, Mago Grill & Cantina should definitely be on your list of places to visit. And don't forget to try their must-try live guacamole - trust me, you won't regret it!

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Blitz Sports Bar & BBQ

Highlights
Amazing barbecue
Excellent margaritas
Casual sports vibe
Fast and friendly service
Variety of tasty dishes

Upon arriving at Blitz, I was immediately drawn to the casual sports vibe of the place. It had a welcoming atmosphere with TVs playing different games all around. The staff were fast and friendly, making sure I was comfortable and well taken care of throughout my visit.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh boy, this place has some amazing barbecue! The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection. They also had a variety of tasty dishes that will satisfy any craving you might have. But what really stood out were their excellent margaritas - they were spot on!

Overall, Blitz Sports Bar & BBQ is an excellent choice for those looking for a great time with friends or family while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Don't miss out on this gem in Arlington Heights!

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Somebody's

Highlights
Friendly patrons
Welcoming staff
Neighborhood vibe

First and foremost, the patrons at Somebody's were some of the friendliest I’ve come across in Arlington Heights bars. It felt like a community gathering where everyone knows each other's name.

The staff was incredibly welcoming as well. They made me feel comfortable right from the start, offering me a seat at the bar and engaging me in conversation. The bartender even made some great drink recommendations that suited my taste buds perfectly.

What I really liked about Somebody's was its neighborhood vibe. It felt like a place where locals come to hang out after work or catch up with friends over drinks. The ambiance was cozy and casual, which is perfect for winding down after a long day.

Overall, Somebody's is definitely one of the best bars in Arlington Heights for those looking for a laid-back atmosphere with friendly people and great service. So if you're in the area, be sure to stop by and enjoy some drinks with the locals!

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Hideout Pub & Grill

Highlights
Homemade, delicious
Handmade chips
Fun atmosphere
Reasonable prices

First of all, let me tell you that their food is amazing. Everything is homemade and full of flavor. I couldn't resist ordering a basket of their handmade chips which were crispy and perfectly salted. The menu offers a variety of options, from classic burgers to more sophisticated dishes. Trust me, you won't leave hungry!

But what really caught my attention was the atmosphere at Hideout Pub & Grill. It's just fun! They have plenty of TVs showing all kinds of sports events and the bartenders are always up for a chat. It's the kind of place where you can go alone or with friends and feel right at home.

And let's not forget about the prices! Compared to other bars in Arlington Heights, Hideout Pub & Grill offers very reasonable prices without sacrificing quality. Who says good food and drinks have to be expensive?

Overall, I had a great time at Hideout Pub & Grill and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxed yet exciting experience. Don't miss out on this gem!

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Big Shot Piano Lounge & Restaurant

Highlights
Live music
Talented pianist
Friendly staff

Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the live music and the overall ambiance of the place. The talented pianist played a variety of tunes that had everyone tapping their feet and singing along. It was clear that he was experienced and knew how to get the crowd going.

The staff were incredibly friendly, greeting me with a warm smile and making sure I had everything I needed throughout my visit. They were happy to recommend drinks and food options, which made me feel welcome.

I ordered one of their signature cocktails, which was expertly crafted and tasted amazing. The menu offered a great selection of appetizers and entrees as well, so I decided to try a few dishes while enjoying the music.

Overall, Big Shot Piano Lounge & Restaurant is definitely a place worth visiting in Arlington Heights. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or just want to enjoy some great music and drinks, this bar has got it all. Make sure to check it out!

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House of Music & Entertainment (HOME Bar)

Highlights
Live music venue
Good food
Great atmosphere
Friendly staff
Worth a visit

As soon as I walked in, I knew this place was going to be great. The atmosphere was electric and the crowd was buzzing with excitement. HOME Bar is a live music venue, so it's no surprise that the stage dominates the space. The sound quality was top-notch and the bands were fantastic.

But let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness, the food! It was absolutely delicious, and I'm not just saying that because I had a couple of drinks beforehand. The menu had plenty of options to choose from, but I highly recommend trying one of their burgers.

Another highlight of my experience at HOME Bar was the friendly staff. They were all so welcoming and accommodating, making sure everyone had a good time. Even though it was busy, they still took the time to chat with me and make recommendations.

Overall, I'd say that HOME Bar is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a fun night out with friends or family. It has everything you need for a perfect night: great music, tasty food, and friendly people. So next time you're in Arlington Heights, make sure to stop by HOME Bar!

Jimmy D's District

Highlights
Friendly staff
Good food
Strong drinks
Lively atmosphere

Upon entering the bar, I was greeted by a group of friendly staff who were ready to serve me. The lively atmosphere immediately caught my attention, and I knew immediately that I would have a good time here.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the delicious food options available. From juicy burgers to crispy fries, Jimmy D's District has got it all covered. And let's not forget about their strong drinks! Their bartenders sure know how to make a drink that packs a punch.

The highlight for me was the lively atmosphere; there was never a dull moment at Jimmy D's District. You can always find people dancing and having fun here. The music selection was great too and had everyone tapping their feet.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a bar with good food, strong drinks, and a lively atmosphere, then Jimmy D's District is definitely worth checking out! It's perfect for those who want to have some fun after work or on the weekends - just be sure to bring your dancing shoes!