The 16 Best Cocktail Bars for Rent in Chicago, IL

Q: How can I reduce the cost of renting cocktail bars in Chicago?

Compare Prices : Research and compare prices from multiple cocktail bars to find the best deals. Off-Peak Bookings : Make your reservations during off-peak times such as weekdays or non-holiday seasons when rates are usually lower. Package Deals : Look for bars offering package deals that include food, drinks, and venue rental at a discounted rate. Negotiation : Negotiate with the bar management for a better price or added perks. Happy Hours : Host your event during happy hours to take advantage of lower drink prices. Cash Bar Option : Opt for a cash bar instead of an open bar to reduce costs. Smaller Guest List : Limit your guest list to a smaller number to keep expenses down. Lesser-Known Venues : Consider newer or less well-known cocktail bars that may offer competitive pricing to attract customers.

The Parlour at The Albion

75 guests

The Albion Manor

(15)

Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL

#Supervenue

K

Katherine N.
“Johanna provided excellent service with the room set-up and managing the bar.”

from $3000
minimum spend / per session
Private Party Room

50 guests

Claddagh Ring Pub

(22)

Ravenswood, Chicago, IL

#Supervenue

E

Eugene B.
“The bar was excellent. It was really one of the only ones I found that was reasonably priced to rent.”

from $75
hire fee / per hour
Rooftop Bar

80 guests

The Pony

(12)

Lakeview, Chicago, IL

A

Abigail R.
“Our bartender, Bekah, was incredibly lovely and we had such a wonderful time!!”

from $40
per person / per session
Second Floor

35 guests

The Dandy Crown

(12)

West Town, Chicago, IL

M

Megan D.
“My husband and I had never rented out a venue or bar to host anything before.”

from $1650
minimum spend / per session
Top Deck

50 guests

Howl at the Moon, Chicago

(5)

River North, Chicago, IL

A

Alex S.
“Katie was incredibly responsive as an event planner for the venue, and the experience was a ton of fun.”

from $2000
minimum spend / per session
Bar Room

66 guests

Port and Park Bistro

(6)

Lakeview, Chicago, IL

A

Alex H.
“The bartender was very good. We were provided with the equipment we needed (mic).”

from $1000
minimum spend / per session
Private Party Room

75 guests

Barcocina Lakeview

(8)

Lakeview, Chicago, IL

#Supervenue

Discover the perfect setting for your next special occasion in the private party room at Barcocina, where great vibes and a spacious, beautifully designed interior await.

from $35
per person / per session
The Event Space

50 guests

Uptown Taproom

(14)

Uptown, Chicago, IL

#Supervenue

M

Matt B.
“Great venue, the food was excellent, and the service was good too. Would definitely recommend!”

from $250
hire fee / per day
First Floor

40 guests

The Dandy Crown

(12)

West Town, Chicago, IL

K

Kailyn S.
“Such a great spot for a birthday party!”

from $1650
minimum spend / per session
Private Party Room

75 guests

Barcocina West Town

(9)

East Village, Chicago, IL

Discover the Private Party Room at Barcocina West Town, an elegant space designed to host unforgettable gatherings for up to 75 people. The warm lighting casts a cozy glow, creating an inviting ambiance that is perfect for

from $35
per person / per session
Entire Bar

300 guests

The Country Club

(2)

Lakeview, Chicago, IL

Chicago Country Bar in the heart of Wrigleyville. Southern Inspired Pub Fare and Impressive Beer and Cocktail List. The Country Club throws down everything a country bar should do, just without the slurred stories and muddy

from $40
per person / per session
Bistro Room

100 guests

Port and Park Bistro

(6)

Lakeview, Chicago, IL

T

Tyler N.
“The bar staff were incredible and added to the energy of the evening.”

from $200
hire fee / per hour

FAQs about Cocktail Bars in Chicago, IL

What are some great themes for a cocktail party in Chicago?

Hosting a cocktail party in Chicago offers a wonderful opportunity to get creative with your themes:

Chicago Jazz Era: Step back in time with a 1920s jazz theme, celebrating Chicago's rich history in the jazz scene. Think flapper dresses, feather boas, and swing music to get everyone dancing.
Windy City Elegance: Embrace the sophisticated side of Chicago with a sleek, modern theme. Use minimalist decor, a black and white color scheme, and serve contemporary cocktails.
Sports Fanatic: Decorate with the team colors of the Bears, the Bulls, or the Cubs and serve local beers and stadium-inspired snacks.
Chicago Blues Night: Dive into the blues music that Chicago is famous for. Create a moody ambiance with blue lighting and soulful music, and serve classic cocktails like whiskey sours.

For even more inspiring party themes, check out our comprehensive list of the 170 Greatest Themes to Rock Every Party.

Is outside catering allowed in cocktail bars?

Outside catering is often allowed at cocktail bars, though policies can vary by venue. For example, the Golden Years Cocktail Bar on West Chicago Avenue allows you to bring in an external caterer for events accommodating around 60-70 people. However, they do not allow you to bring your own alcohol; beverages must be purchased from the bar itself. Remember to check with your chosen venue beforehand to understand their rules regarding food and drink arrangements.

How can I reduce the cost of renting cocktail bars in Chicago?

Compare Prices: Research and compare prices from multiple cocktail bars to find the best deals.
Off-Peak Bookings: Make your reservations during off-peak times such as weekdays or non-holiday seasons when rates are usually lower.
Package Deals: Look for bars offering package deals that include food, drinks, and venue rental at a discounted rate.
Negotiation: Negotiate with the bar management for a better price or added perks.
Happy Hours: Host your event during happy hours to take advantage of lower drink prices.
Cash Bar Option: Opt for a cash bar instead of an open bar to reduce costs.
Smaller Guest List: Limit your guest list to a smaller number to keep expenses down.
Lesser-Known Venues: Consider newer or less well-known cocktail bars that may offer competitive pricing to attract customers.