We originally came to Ghost Donkey as paranormal investigators, after being hired to locate the missing ghost donkey belonging to a local agave farmer. The case had gone cold--or perhaps mezcal-hot--until we received a clue pointing us toward River North. Ghost Donkey is spacious, colorful, and full of energy, with plenty of bar seating and tables. The music can get loud, but it fits the atmosphere perfectly. The bartenders were constantly interacting with guests, swinging the lights, encouraging the crowd, and turning the entire room into a neon-lit fiesta. They do have a food menu featuring items such as tacos, nachos, quesadillas, and guacamole, but we mostly came for the drinks. Many of the cocktails are tequila- or mezcal-based, which is exactly what we enjoy. The menu is creative, the drinks are strong, and the bar does an excellent job making agave spirits approachable--even for guests who may not consider themselves mezcal experts. After two drinks and an argument with a decorative donkey, we finally found the missing spirit hiding behind the bar. He was translucent, smelled faintly of roasted agave, and appeared to be carrying a tiny map. We followed him through a glowing hallway, down a staircase, and into a secret chamber where he revealed the legendary piñata of Quetzalcoatl, the ancient feathered serpent god. Naturally, we attempted to break it open. Instead of candy, it released a cloud of mystical dust, three lime wedges, and a receipt for nachos. The ghost donkey brayed with laughter, the lights began swinging, and the entire bar erupted in applause. The bartender handed us another drink and told us this happened all the time. Ghost Donkey is a fantastic place to hang out, pregame, and enjoy inventive tequila and mezcal cocktails in a lively setting. Just be warned: you may arrive looking for a ghost donkey and leave having helped recover an ancient Mexican god's piñata. That's simply the sort of evening this place encourages. read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Food: ok -- we got a carne asada quesadilla to share and we were glad we were able to customize it a bit to meet allergens/preferences Drinks: not for me AT ALL -- the paloma was okay at best, the chispa was AWFUL (worst drink I have EVER had, had two sips and left it there), and the spicy drink was also not our cup of tea Service / Ambiance: i loved the LED lights, and staff was friendly. The music was good but kind of all over the place in terms of genre, vibe, and order The best thing about Ghost Donkey in my opinion is that it has a cute photobooth read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ghost Donkey was so cool! This place was really hard for us to find, and the only reason we ended up finding it was because we saw the ceiling lights from a window on the street. The overall vibe was so fun! We came for happy hour before dinner and it was vibey, and the happy hour drink prices are really good. $4 modelo and $8 glasses of wine in Chicago is a steal. I had a frozen marg which was really nice with how hot it was outside. We also had some chips and guac which were good and fresh! I loved the lighting and the touches the restaurant had, super cool. I'd go back for sure. read more

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Food was ok, drinks ok. Not a lot of choice for happy hour. The service was good and staff friendly. The decorations were cool. read more

Ghost Donkey - Entrance - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My friend and I decided to grab quick drinks and a snack at ghost donkey. After multiple failed attempts in the past, we finally reached at the time and day when there was no wait. Overall, the ambience was dive bar ish but very Mexican. They even have a big donkey structure at the entrance. The server was quick to come and take our order. We got some cups and guac, mushroom margarita cocktail and the highland picnic cocktail. The cocktails were great and chips were under slayed but the guac made up for it. Overall, the place wasn't expensive. I will def be back when there is no wait :p read more

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What a cute space!! I believe this is a hidden speakeasy but it's not too hard to get to. They have a fun and inexpensive happy hour that extends weekends too! The guacamole was tasty and I enjoyed the marg! read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We did not care for the drinks at all. Overly sweet, I could barely finish mine. We only had drinks, they have a happy hour with great deals on food. Maybe their food is better. We were disappointed as we like tequila. Better options in Chicago, sorry! read more

Stopped by Ghost Donkey on a whim and so glad we did as it ended up being a blast! Even on a quick visit, the energy was contagious as the bar was filled with upbeat music, bartenders spraying drinks through water guns, and everyone just enjoying their lives there. I grabbed a round of margaritas, and the bartender threw in a complimentary slushie which was surprisingly refreshing. The place looks amazing at night and not to mention they even have a photobooth. Definitely a spot I plan to visit next time I am in Chicago and ready for good night out! read more

Ghost Donkey - Environment - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ghost Donkey is a cute bar that gives off club vibes. We were able to reserve seats but the bar was open on my second visit there. I thought they had more food options but it is really limited for this venue. They are attached to Blue Sushi so make sure to get some yummy food downtown stairs before venturing up here for good tequila and music. On this occasion my besties were in town and we indulged in some yummy food downtown cocktails. In addition we played around in the Photo Booth. The DJ was on point when we were there and kinda bummed that we had to roll to our next location. Ghost Donkey is a some good vibes with reasonable priced cocktails. Check this place out if hanging in River North. read more

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The three stars are for the HH, vibes, and chicken tinga tacos. Other than that, I don't really get the hype and I've been here several times. The happy hour prices are decent, but I just really don't like the drinks. I feel like the options are limited and just not that good tbh. Reservations are encouraged, but you can also chill at the bar if there's room. This is a spot I'd go to after the main event, not one that I'd specifically leave my house for. Everyone else in my group always seems to enjoy, so maybe it's just me! read more

What a cute little "find" we were totally NOT going here until a simple "A" frame sidewalk sign piqued our curiosity.. and boy I'm glad it did. What a great vibe & ambiance . Great cocktails (I love mezcal) and great food! And to top everything off..WONDERFUL HAPPY HOUR Specials. Definitely a must visit spot. read more

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Had was a time! And a time was had! Ghost Donkey is the place to go for fun, good music, amazing drinks and fun photos. I came here for happy hour with a dear friend and we made the right choice. I love that their HH is during the right hours of 4-8 and they offer true HH prices. I wish I'd gotten the name of our server. She was a true gem and knew the importance of quality service. I do plan to return and suggest others get there too! read more

Ghost Donkey - Inside - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Fun space above a sushi place. Secret speakeasy vibe. Limited menu. Chips were super salty. Salsa was blended into a paste and had a nice kick. Mixed drinks We're small and weak. A lot of groups went for the shots which seemed to make People happy. read more

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Came here the other day with a group and was immediately annoyed because their happy hour deal in the menu is not what's posted on their website. On the website, drinks are $7 and quesadillas are $9-10. My group paid $13 per drink and $13-14 for each quesadilla. They need to update their website or honor their deals bc that's deceptive pricing. On top of that, the quesadillas were not very filled, the salsas were thick and just ok. Margs weren't impressive. Overall: wouldn't go back bc their happy hour isn't what is advertised and the food is very mid. read more

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Doorway to enter from street. Up the stairs to a super cute bar that's a great spot for happy hour! The bartenders make it a good time. The drinks weren't consistent but they were still all good. Had 3 margaritas made by 3 different bartenders. The steak quesadilla was filled with cheese but could have used a little more meat. Chips and salsa was good as well. read more

Speakeasy vibes on the heart of River North. Bartenders are welcoming and the drinks are strong. The ambiance is really unique with a Latin flair. It's not been too busy either time I was there but apparently it's more of a late-late night scene. read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Happy hour was a great time! Their specials are really good and their service was too, my only thing was the limited seating. reservations are encouraged for sure! Would definitely come back again. $2 chicken tinga tacos, 5/5 $10 carne quesadillas 3/5 $7 casa marg, 3.5/5 $7 Paloma, 4/5 **not on happy hour candy shots 4/5 frozen shots 1.5/5, that's cucumber was too strong read more

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Didn't get food, service was great! The waiter was a really sweet girl & the ambiance was giving, period loloh and get the shot my man is pointing to in the picture! Literally our new favorite!! read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love the vibe of this place and the way it's decorated but I didn't like the service. Our server kept forgetting things and then her or maybe who seemed to be the manager would seem annoyed when we asked for things. The margaritas were just ok. I bought shots of tequila to make mine stronger. Don't know if I'll be back read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Since January, I've been seeing ads for this place on my social media, so I felt compelled to try it out. A friend and I went for happy hour last week, and we were really impressed. We ordered the ceviche, guacamole, chicken quesadilla, and steak and mushroom tacos. The food was excellent! My friend had a margarita and a paloma; she preferred the margarita over the paloma. I tried the rosé, which was a generous pour for happy hour; it had a lovely aroma and taste that reminded me of enjoying a summer patio. The decor features a lot of pink and dark colors, giving it a nightclub vibe. The staff was fantastic, from the moment we were greeted by the host to the time we cashed out. I will definitely be back! This place is great for catching up with someone, having a coworker gathering after work, or entertaining family in town. read more

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You must come ready to dance the night away! The DJ will keep you moving, and the food is affordable. Sit by the bar and ask for Mel--she'll hook you up. If you're on a date, grab a booth or sit by the bar. Wait for the bubbles and the swinging lamps--I promise you'll have a great time. And if you're lucky, you might get a donkey... or end up being the donkey of the night yourself! read more

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I really like this place! I think that it's one of the best Happy Hours out there right now honestly - especially in the area! I came here with my good friend (twice - once just ourselves and the second with 2 other lovely ladies as well) and we all thought that the pricing of the drinks and tacos were reasonable. The drinks were also good and strong - thanks to our great waitress (unfortunately didn't get her name but i will next time!) It is absolutely a party atmosphere in here but we noticed a lot of folks coming post work so it's a good mixed crowd. I recommend getting reservations around happy hour time! read more

I really love the vibes in here and that they're staying true to their other locations around the country. I came here for happy hour and was pumped to see they included both margs and tacos! The vibe is very loungey so the tables (at least by the bar) are super low, like a coffee table rather than a dinner table which is fine for just drinks, but probably a bit of a hunch over if you are eating food off of it. It looks aesthetically pleasing but not the most practical. read more

Ghost Donkey - Inside - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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As a bar - I love this place so much. It is so vibey, the music is fire, and the happy hour is to DIE for. They have happy hour from 4-8 pm with foods ranging from $2-$8 and drinks ranging from $4-$8. Cannot be beat. The food itself was decent - nothing to rave about but I definitely will be coming back for the happy hour. read more

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8 of us Stopped in a few weeks ago for the after party to my friends belated birthday celebration. We had an absolute blast in the lounge area. Lucky as we were seated right next to the bar in that area and the service was super prompt. Plus BIRTHDAY SQUIRT GUN SHOTS and shots shots. Hahah! The cocktails were really good and well balanced. I loved the unique twist that they put on their version of an old-fashioned and loved the burro cocktail that came with the super cute mini donkey in it! I definitely kept that as my souvenir for the night he's adorable and sits on my desk at work. While the space is not extremely large. It does provide enough space for you to dance if you want to to sit and mingle to grab drinks and to hang out the decor is super fun and we had a great time chatting and dancing and hanging out great space can't wait to go back! read more

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I'm surprised how many times I've passed this place without noticing it's pretty hidden. I thought it was a very cozy spot, but I wasn't a huge fan of the drinks (I usually like things on the sweeter side). Still a good try though read more

Ghost Donkey - Mezcal Sun-Risa, Vodka Mami, Moda Antigua - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Fairly new spot in river north, tucked away in between restaurants like a little alley. They have great happy hour options with $2 dollar tacos and cheap drinks! The food is also delicious and you can't go wrong with any of the selections. The decoration is bright and buzzy and they also have a DJ perform on weekends from what I've heard! read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Good people and margs for the prides. HH is solid. Steak quesadilla was good. Can tell this Place is run well you can tell read more

Fun new bar in River North! Drinks are very good, each around 15 dollars. They also have happy hour all day Sunday. We got the chicken tinga tacos, 3 come in an order. Tacos were flavorful, spicy, and the sauces were a great additions. Service is friendly and prompt. The bar itself is very cool, nice decorations, fun lights, and good music. read more

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I went here randomly for the first time this past Sunday. It was Happy Hour all day-yes ALL DAY. That may be changing soon but for the time being, you can't beat that! Food: I had Carne Asada Tacos and Chips and Guacamole. The tacos were good and the Guac was Guac-ing! LOL! The tacos were also $2.00 (Happy Hour) Drinks: I had a Casa Mezcal Margarita that was GOOD! I do recommend that. I also had a Stealth Margarita which was cool but it's blended fyi. I'm not a huge fan of blended drinks but it was good. Service: The service was great!! Thank you to Brittany/Brittney!! (apologies I didn't get the spelling of your name) Atmosphere: Loud but not loud where you had to yell to get your point across. Final thoughts: Go check it out and get you some margaritas! I recommend the place and I would return. read more

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Such a fun new spot to get some cool mezcal or tequila drinks and enjoy good music. Chicken nachos were excellent too. Some of the drinks were a hit or miss, but I overall loved the vibe and decor here. read more

Ghost Donkey - Chicken nachos - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Randomly came across this place on Instagram and decided to check it out on a Sunday. Pro tip: they have an all day happy hour on Sundays! The ambiance and music were on point! Super cute place for friends or a date, to grab a quick drink or sit and have some food! Our server was wonderful, she came by to get orders and check on us just enough! We all ordered off the happy hour menu and got margs (which were delicious) and tacos and guacamole to share. The food was surprisingly much better than we expected!! The guac was fantastic and the salsas were actually spicy! The only draw back I'll say is clearly the portions and sizes of the drinks are smaller for the happy hour menu so beware of this. Definitely good deals for River North! read more

I loved Nancy! She gave me good recommendations and took great care of me! Love her! She was so cute read more

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Good cocktails but rude and bad service. They have signs saying see host to sit which is fine, but they told us 2 hours to sit. Meanwhile we stood at the bar and no one sat for 35 min. We put our coats on the empty chairs to have the bouncers move them. Rude and not how to treat customers when seats open. read more

Ghost Donkey, a new mezcal-focused bar in Chicago, falls short of expectations despite its unique concept. While the Mexican-inspired ambiance and music create a lively atmosphere, several issues mar the overall experience. The bar's main draw, its mezcal-inspired cocktails, is unfortunately its biggest letdown. The 1 oz pours are disappointingly small, offering poor value for money. More concerning is the apparent lack of alcohol content in the drinks, as multiple cocktails failed to produce any noticeable effect. This raises questions about the quality and quantity of mezcal used. The server's lack of knowledge about mezcal varieties and flavor profiles was particularly frustrating. Her recommendations often contradicted the menu descriptions, leading to confusion and disappointment. The food menu, while decent, is overpriced for its quality and lacks flavor. A major issue arose when our tacos were mistakenly served to another table and left sitting for 15 minutes. The staff's failure to offer a fresh replacement, leaving us with cold tacos, was unpleasant. The bar's decor, while attempting to create a unique atmosphere, feels haphazard and lacks cohesion. The thrift store aesthetic fails to justify the premium pricing of the establishment. For a new venue with apparently low demand, the $50 cancellation fee seems excessive and off-putting to potential customers. read more

Ghost Donkey - Carne Asada Tacos + Esquites - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Fun music, moody vibe, not a lot of actual tables but the bar was a great place to sit and the staff was friendly. Happy hour deals are epic: 4-8 every day and all day Sunday, and the $2 tacos (especially the chicken tinga) were amazing and a really good size! read more

Ghost Donkey - Chicken Tinga taco - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Get here early if you're doing happy hour. I'd recommend the frozen margarita , especially during summer. Good music, not too loud. All of the bartenders are nice and this spot is a good vibe . I'd also recommend reservations . read more

I went in for happy hour! Service was excellent! $2 tacos and $7 margaritas and other drinks! Happy hour is from 4-8pm. Honestly it reminded me of eating in Mexico City. One of the waitresses kept walking around with incense which really made it feel like we were in Mexico City. Cumbia sonidera like Ángeles Azules was playing in the background and it really brought the vibe together! I am going to go back with friend for sure!! read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The ambiance was great, the service was a bit ok we were a full vegetarian group and they accidentally messed up or order and gave us meat tacos which is ok mistakes happen but they didn't even reimburse us. The mushroom and corn quesadilla and chips were a bit saltier. The hh prices are great tho. read more

Ghost Donkey - Mexican Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had never heard of this place until a friend invited us. Located in a prime location right on Hubbard, you might miss it walking by. You enter via a long staircase up a couple flights, and are greeted by loud music and a strong incense aroma. There's the bar, tables, booths, and couches. It can be loud and crowded, but the happy hour is generous and the food is quite good. I'd come back on a less busy night! read more