The Absolute Best Upscale Bars in Chicago [Updated 2024]

With 12 meticulously curated venues, this list showcases the finest spots that blend elegance with exceptional service and unique cocktails.

From the intimate ambiance of hidden gems to the lively energy of rooftop lounges, each bar has its own distinct personality.

As a Chicago native, I’ve spent countless evenings exploring these establishments, soaking in the atmosphere, and tasting the exquisite offerings.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a sophisticated night out, this guide will help you discover the perfect upscale bar for your next adventure.

The Berkshire Room

Highlights
Top cocktail bar in Chicago
Extensive custom drink options
Cool and sophisticated atmosphere
Talented mixologists and bartenders
Great date night spot

The Berkshire Room is nothing short of a hidden gem in the heart of Chicago. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was enveloped in a cool and sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. The low-key yet chic decor invites you to unwind, making it an incredible option for a date night or a casual catch-up with friends.

What truly sets this bar apart is its extensive custom drink menu. The talented mixologists are artists in their own right, crafting cocktails tailored to your taste. I opted for a bespoke concoction that seamlessly blended unexpected flavors—each sip was a delightful surprise. Every drink tells a story, and you can even work with the bartenders to create your own masterpiece.

With its inviting vibe and exceptional service, The Berkshire Room definitely earns its title as one of the top cocktail bars in the city. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this upscale haven should be on your itinerary. After all, what better way to immerse yourself in Chicago’s nightlife than sipping a uniquely crafted cocktail in such an enchanting setting? Cheers!

You might also want to check out the best bars in Schaumburg.

The Violet Hour

Highlights
Hidden gem without signage
Ethereal atmosphere
Professional and friendly service
Unique cocktails with neat extras
Memorable visits and personalized care

The Violet Hour truly embodies the essence of an upscale bar while delighting guests with its enchanting decor and intimate ambiance. Tucked away behind an unassuming façade, this hidden gem invites you into a world of ethereal charm—no signage needed to understand its allure. As you step in, the enchanting atmosphere wraps around you like a luxurious shawl.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Violet Hour is the professional and friendly service. The staff here seem to possess a sixth sense for knowing exactly what you need, whether it's a drink recommendation or a napkin subtly offered as you settle in for the evening. Speaking of drinks, the cocktail list is nothing short of spectacular. Each concoction is crafted with incredible precision, resulting in unique cocktails that are both delightful and surprising. What’s more, they often feature neat extras that elevate the experience.

In my visits, I felt like a valued guest, not just another patron. The Violet Hour is where memorable memories are made—where every sip feels like a celebration. For anyone looking to dive into Chicago’s upscale bar scene, this spot is a must-visit!

You might also want to check out the best bars in Oak Park.

Vol. 39

Highlights
Luxurious vibe
Skilled bartenders
Hidden location
Owner involvement
Great for couples

First of all, the luxurious vibe of this hidden gem blew me away. The dim lighting and plush seating gave off a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere that made me feel like I was a regular at a private club.

But let's talk about the drinks - the skilled bartenders at Vol. 39 know their stuff. They mix up some seriously delicious cocktails that are both creative and classic. I tried their signature drink, the "Vol. 39," which was a delightful concoction of gin, elderflower, grapefruit, and other secret ingredients that left me wanting more.

The location of this bar is definitely unique - tucked away in the lower level of a historic building in downtown Chicago. But once you find it, you'll be rewarded with an intimate setting that's perfect for couples or small groups.

One thing that sets Vol. 39 apart from other upscale bars is the involvement of the owner. He takes pride in his establishment and it shows in every aspect - from the impeccable service to the attention to detail in the decor.

Overall, if you're looking for a top-notch upscale bar experience in Chicago, then Vol. 39 should definitely be on your list. Just make sure you don't miss out on this hidden gem!

You might also want to check out the best bars in Naperville.

IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge

Highlights
Food on point
Great vibes
Incredible lamb shanks
Good sushi
Best servers

First of all, the food on point at this place is truly something to rave about. I had the privilege of trying their incredible lamb shanks, and let me tell you, they were so good that I almost shed a tear. And if you're in the mood for some sushi, IO Godfrey's got you covered there too with their good sushi.

But it's not just about the food here - the great vibes will make you feel like you're on top of the world. Well...you kind of are since it's a rooftop lounge! The ambiance is perfect for a night out with friends or even a romantic date. Plus, it doesn't hurt that their servers are some of the best servers I've ever encountered.

Overall, IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge definitely deserves a spot on any list of the best upscale bars in Chicago. So if you're looking for delicious food, great vibes and an amazing view, head on over to IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge and thank me later!

You might also want to check out the best bars in Joliet.

M Lounge

Highlights
Good vibes
Great service
Delicious drinks
Non-alcoholic options available
Great music

First off, let me just say that the vibes at M Lounge are amazing. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The service is top-notch as well! The staff was incredibly attentive and made sure my glass was never empty.

Now, let's talk about the drinks. M Lounge serves up some delicious cocktails that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or something strong, they've got you covered. And if alcohol isn't your thing, don't worry - they have plenty of non-alcoholic options available too!

One thing that really stood out to me was the music. The DJ played a great mix of old-school classics and modern hits that had everyone on their feet. It's definitely a spot to dance the night away.

Overall, I highly recommend checking out M Lounge if you're looking for a great upscale bar experience in Chicago. With good vibes, great service, delicious drinks, non-alcoholic options available and great music - what more could you want?

You might also want to check out the best bars in Evanston.

Drawing Room

Highlights
Cozy atmosphere
Great food & drinks
Spectacular space
Attentive servers
Happy Hour specials

Firstly, I was pleasantly surprised by the cozy atmosphere of this upscale bar. The dim lighting and comfortable seating made for a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of work. As I settled in, I perused their menu and was blown away by the great food and drinks on offer. I ordered their signature cocktail, "The Drawing Room", which was a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors that left me wanting more.

The space itself is nothing short of spectacular, with its elegant decor and stylish furnishings that make you feel like you've stepped into a different era. The attention to detail in every corner of the room is truly impressive.

But what really stood out to me was the service - the servers were incredibly attentive without being intrusive, making sure my experience was top-notch from start to finish. And if you're looking for a deal, they have some great Happy Hour specials too!

Overall, if you're looking for an upscale bar that ticks all the boxes - cozy atmosphere, great food & drinks, spectacular space and attentive servers - then Drawing Room is definitely worth checking out.

You might also want to check out the best bars in Elmhurst.

Lazy Bird

Highlights
Knowledgeable bartenders
Customized cocktails
Menu of 20+ cocktails
Live music events
Popular dating spot

Firstly, I was impressed by the knowledgeable bartenders who were able to create customized cocktails that catered to my specific taste preferences. The menu boasts over 20 cocktails, so there is something for everyone's taste buds.

What sets Lazy Bird apart from other upscale bars in Chicago is its live music events. As a musician myself, I appreciated the live jazz performances which added an extra layer of sophistication to the ambiance.

It's no surprise that Lazy Bird has become a popular dating spot. The cozy atmosphere and carefully crafted cocktails make for the perfect setting to impress your significant other or simply enjoy a night out with friends.

Overall, my experience at Lazy Bird was exceptional. The combination of customized cocktails, live music events, and cozy ambiance makes this upscale bar stand out from the rest. If you're looking for a sophisticated night out in Chicago, I highly recommend giving Lazy Bird a try.

You might also want to check out the best bars in Deerfield.

The Aviary

Highlights
Unique, flavorful drinks
Minimalistic and elegant interior
Great service
Delicious food options

Firstly, let me just say that The Aviary is not your typical cocktail bar. From the moment you step inside, the minimalistic and elegant interior design will make you feel like you've stepped into a modern art museum. But don't be fooled by the simplicity of the decor, because once you try their drinks, you'll see why The Aviary is considered one of the best upscale bars in Chicago.

The drinks at The Aviary are nothing short of perfection. Each drink on their menu is crafted with precision and creativity, resulting in unique and flavorful concoctions that will leave your taste buds begging for more. I highly recommend trying their signature drink, "The Jungle Bird", which is a delightful mix of rum and pineapple juice with a hint of lime.

Aside from the amazing drinks, I also have to give credit to their staff who provided excellent service throughout my visit. They were attentive and knowledgeable about each drink on the menu.

And let's not forget about the food! The Aviary offers delicious food options that perfectly complement their drinks. If you're feeling adventurous, try their foie gras funnel cake - it's an interesting twist on a classic carnival treat.

Overall, The Aviary is an upscale bar that truly lives up to its reputation. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind drinking experience with exceptional service and delicious food options, then this is definitely the place for you!

You might also want to check out the best bars in Aurora.

Sparrow

Highlights
Amazing bartender
Friendly atmosphere
Great cocktails
Cuban-inspired drinks
Huge sugar cane selection

First and foremost, let me tell you about the amazing bartender who served us. They were like a magician with a shaker, whipping up some of the best cocktails I've ever tasted. The friendly atmosphere only added to the experience, making it feel like we were old friends catching up over drinks.

The drink menu at Sparrow is truly something special. They have a selection of Cuban-inspired drinks, which are not commonly found in most upscale bars. The flavors were exotic, and I felt like I was transported to Havana with every sip.

One thing that stood out to me was their huge selection of sugar cane-based drinks. If you're a fan of this unique ingredient, Sparrow should definitely be on your list of bars to visit.

Overall, I would highly recommend Sparrow if you're looking for an upscale bar with great cocktails and an unforgettable atmosphere. Don't miss out on their Cuban-inspired drinks or their impressive sugar cane selection!

You might also want to check out the best bars in Arlington Heights.

Adamus Lounge

Highlights
Co-located with Silversmith
Stylish and posh lounge
Great for large groups
Decently priced drinks
Happy hour specials

First off, let me just say that Adamus Lounge is stylish and posh. It's co-located with Silversmith Hotel, which makes it a great spot for those looking to impress their guests. The ambiance is perfect for an intimate date or a night out with friends.

What I loved about this bar is that it's great for large groups. You don't have to worry about finding a table or getting lost in the crowd. Plus, they have happy hour specials that won't break the bank. Who doesn't love a good deal?

The drinks are decently priced and the bartenders know how to mix them perfectly. I recommend trying their signature cocktails like the "Adamus Manhattan" or "Silversmith Sour". They're so good, you'll want another round.

Overall, Adamus Lounge exceeded my expectations. It's definitely one of the best upscale bars in Chicago and I highly recommend checking it out.

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The Office

Highlights
Personalized cocktail experience
Astonishing selection of spirits
Truffle popcorn and tasty menu
Unique and well balanced drinks
Reservation required and expensive

Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the sophistication and elegance of the atmosphere. The dim lighting and plush seating created an intimate ambiance that made me feel like a VIP.

What really sets The Office apart from other bars is their personalized cocktail experience. The bartender worked with me to craft a drink based on my preferences, and it was amazing! The selection of spirits is truly astonishing, and they have some rare finds that will impress any liquor connoisseur.

I couldn't resist trying the truffle popcorn - it was the perfect salty snack to complement my drinks. And speaking of drinks, each one was unique and well-balanced. It's clear that the bartenders here take pride in their craft.

It's important to note that reservations are required at The Office, which adds to its exclusivity. However, be prepared for a hefty bill as this upscale bar comes with a steep price tag.

Overall, if you're looking for a fancy night out or want to impress someone special, The Office is definitely worth checking out. Just be sure to bring your wallet!

Le Bar Chicago

Highlights
Chic city bar
Exceptional staff
Amazing cocktails
Great wine
Fantastic food

First off, let me tell you that Le Bar Chicago is hands down one of the chicest city bars I've ever been to. The decor has a perfect blend of sophistication and modernity, making it an Instagram-worthy spot.

But what really sets this bar apart is the exceptional staff. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality that made me feel like royalty. They were knowledgeable about every drink on the menu and offered great recommendations.

Speaking of drinks, let's talk about their amazing cocktails. Le Bar Chicago offers an extensive list of unique cocktails that are crafted to perfection by skilled mixologists. Each sip was a burst of flavors that left me wanting more.

For those who prefer wine, they have a great selection to choose from. Their sommelier can guide you through the wine list based on your preferences and taste buds.

And if you're feeling peckish, their food menu is just as impressive as their drinks. The dishes are artistically presented and made with only the freshest ingredients. My personal favorite was the charcuterie board which paired perfectly with my glass of red wine.

Overall, Le Bar Chicago exceeded all my expectations and left me wanting to come back for more. If you're looking for a fantastic upscale bar experience, this is definitely worth checking out!