Ever since I came back from a trip to NOLA a couple years ago (and subsequently moved to Chicago), I've been looking for a place like Green Mill. A spot where someone could walk in, maybe order a drink, and listen to some music without first opening Ticketmaster and shelling out half your paycheck to their junk fees. Some of their performances are free, and some have a reasonable cover of $10-20. There are also performances every night, sometimes even in the afternoon. The vibe inside is dimly lit and very old-timey. Even the bathroom had a bar of soap! I haven't seen a bar outside of a private residence! For sure, the vibe fits the history. Green Mill used to be a spot visited by Big Al himself. Yes, there are still connected tunnels used by the mob, no, you cannot see them. In terms of the bar, do not expect anything special. Their menu is limited to the beers, wines, and champagnes they have. They have spirits, but no cocktail menu - while they *might* be able to mix something simple like a Manhattan, be prepared for basic drinks along the lines of a gin & tonic. The service was fine, but a little abrupt. Not the best welcoming or inviting, but gruff and surly in a way that is probably cute to regulars, but less so to newcomers like myself. Final verdict: Green Mill is a place one comes for the music and the vibe and to get away from life for a little bit. It appears to be a third place for many regulars. It's worth giving a shot, as long as one is ready for an experience that's a little rough around the edges, arguably by design. read more

Live music for your ears and soul. Vibe is just right with some fun drinks to accompany. I got an old fashioned to get the mood right with great jazz music. Supposedly, this used to be a speakeasy back in the day. Extra pro tip is to get there early if you want a seat closer to the band. read more

The Mill is unapologetically a 100 year old bar for people who like great jazz (and swing, poetry slam, variety) and there are plenty of us who do. Ancient cash registers, (cash only,) no updating. If you want more modern decorum try Andy's in River North, also a great space with fabulous musicians but a very different vibe. read more

This is a historic Chicago icon. Yes, Al Capone used to hang here and there are underground tunnels where they store their beer! On Saturday they have free comedy shows which are great, but get there early for good seats. This is a cash only establishment with great cheap drinks and it's such a vibe. read more

Green Mill - front stage and seating - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I'm just a tourist who is not biased and is generally easy on the authentic, hole in a wall type of establishments that deserve high praise for staying afloat. It's rare for me to say much negative comments since the world is full of criticism without constructive merits. However, this bar once frequented by the worst gangster in Chicago history needs some decent criticism. First: the place is dirty Second: entire staffs are rude Third: the manager lady is the rudest one of all Fourth: cash only-highly suspicious for the tax evasion that Al Capone was incarcerated for life-don't mess with Treasury Agents Fifth: poor population control-various people come in with different cover charges Sixth: unsafe due to no emergency exits and only very small entrance Seven: expensive drinks for small servings Eight: poor acoustics-small stage behind the angled bar counter Nine: poor bathrooms upkeep Ten: extremely poor decor and lightings Compliments One: Best Jazz Performance and amazing Musicians Two: Surprise guest performance by probably one of the best crooner Three: Historic place rarely preserved Four: Cool, old decor Overall Historic Place with excellent Virtuoso Jazz Club. Just don't mind the insane Matriarch who just can't shut up. read more

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Loved the live jazz, the musicians were phenomenal. During breaks, they would disperse and talk to guests which was awesome. On the other hand, The setup is not the best, it's almost like they don't want you to see the stage. The bartenders came off as rude and pretentious. We were respectful, quiet, and tipped handsomely, so it was off putting that they acted like we were burdening them by being there. This was by far the most unhygienic establishment I have ever been too. I witnessed one bartender in particular grab the inside of every glass with his fingers. I also saw those fingers touch his phone, his pants, picked things up off the ground, his hair, face, and only god knows what else. When "washing" the glasses (if you can even call it that) he haphazardly dipped them in lukewarm, used water and put them back up to dry. The bathrooms were somehow worse. I noticed a pungent smell-- underwear with skid marks soaked in urine hung from the toilet. I wish I was kidding. I was so disgusted I couldn't finish my drink. What you get with free live music, you pay for with endless health code violations. read more

I slipped into booths at this red velveted cash-only curtained lounge for years. I even performed poetry here in college. How surprised was I to revisit years later in a group and have such a great time. I'm so grateful places like this are still alive. The waitresses were aware as always. read more

Green Mill - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I was so excited to visit this historic Jazz club. I went to see a swing band. There's a small space for dancing between the bar and the entertainment. Lots of people dance. People generally walk around and ask someone to dance if they're looking for a partner. Was able to get a place to sit at the bar. read more

Green Mill - Interior - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Such a cool spot with so much history. We've had this joint bookmarked forever and I'm really glad we were finally able to stop in for one drink. Next time, we'll stay for a show. read more

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An elder statesman of Chicago's Jazz bar scene. Come for the history, stay for the music. Enjoy the cocktails. Its a good time. read more

We went on a Friday night and the bartender was extremely rude. He basically bullied us into giving him a tip, which is the literal opposite way to being deserving of and earning a tip. We overheard how he was talking to his colleage throughout the night too, and he just seemed to have a bad attitude in general. This person should not be working in customer service. Also the drinks he made were mid as hell anyways, so that and the attitude did not justify any tip. The music is the only redeeming point. The jazz and dancing that night made the vibes really nice. But honestly that bartender spoiled the entire experience. read more

I've been in Chicago for well over a decade and somehow never found myself at the Green Mill. I decided it was time to change that and went with a new friend for a happy hour hangout. We got there not long after it opened, so it was not very crowded yet. No jazz band, but there was a solo guitar player making a really nice ambience. I knew to expect an authentic, vintage interior, but nothing can really prepare you for the stunning style of the Green Mill. I loved it. You don't see places like this anymore, and I love that the outside still matches the inside. The heavy woods, the murals, the dark and intimate lighting, it's just great. It feels like stepping into a movie. I had a sidecar and an old fashioned thanks to the fellow Yelpers' recommendations. Of the two I probably preferred the sidecar. I don't think I've ever had one before, and the Prohibition vibes hit with it. The old fashioned was fine, not really remarkable to me, but I enjoyed it in the context of the bar. I thought the drink prices were pretty fair--nice to find a cocktail under $15 these days. I'm guessing the cash-only policy helps with that, but that policy is part of what kept me away for so long. I'm not a cash-carrier these days, but I'm always willing to plan ahead for a good time. My only other note for The Green Mill is I wish they had a cocktail menu. They could put together something really cool and of the period to enhance the already great vibes. read more

1) As a room - atmospheric and evocative. Dark rich nineteenth century woods, thick built in wood picture frames that would not be out of place holding Dutch Masters and frescoes imitating European romantic landscapes. You can't beat Green Mill for Eye Candy. 2) As a jazz club - Unimaginative and middle class respectable. The dance band playing the night we were there was playing Isham Jones white dance sides from the twenties. At a jazz store, I bought some CDs of other bands playing at the Green Mill. Straight ahead swing/bop standards that challenge no boundaries. You are here to be entertained - not to hear something exciting or new. 3) As a bar - meh. They will have something you can drink but the holdings are thin. 4 As a single sex dance club - OMG. Fantastic. Everyone dances here regardless of gender but same sex couples rule. The jazz couples dancing to the 1920's Isham Jones group were knock your socks off good. These were people who dance all the time and the Green Mill is their venue (or one of their venues.) Smooth fast moves by svelte beautiful dancers who totally know what they are doing. I fell in love with about six people dancing on the floor. If I had stayed longer I probably could have found even more people to fall in love with. * * * So Green Mill definitely has its charms. But if you came to Chicago to hear some jazz, Move on. read more

I'm visiting Chicago this Feb and a friend suggested this spot for live music. It took forever to find parking and the walk was so brutal and cold only to decide to turn back around immediately because the guy collecting the cover was extremely rude yelling and the customers and swearing at us before we even got inside. It was very disappointing experience and it's sad that we had to turn back. read more

Where is the fire marshal when you need one? We had a friend recommend the Green Mill because of the history and connection to Al Capone. When in Rome! We decided to come in the evening for the 8pm show. We got to the Green Mill at 7:30 and after paying a $20 cover (each), we got a decent seat at the bar...or so we thought. Our corner seat at the bar gave us a great view of the stage, until the stampede. How many people are you going to let into this small jazz bar? What once was a decent view of the band, quickly became the Great Wall of china. GOOD LUCK! Wall to wall people AND they kept coming. By 8:30, we couldn't see anything. People were elbow to elbow and barely any room to exit. Gosh forbid something happened and people need to exit quickly. Anyways. For the cover ($20 each) + mediocre expensive drinks + no view...this place is not worth it. We hope for everyone else's sake this is just a Friday/Saturday issue but you've been warned. If you don't like crowds, go somewhere else. read more

Green Mill - Post the stampede, hard to see but it's slammed - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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VIOLENTLY RACIST EXPERIENCE. DO NOT VISIT. We visited on a Thursday night during a packed set. We're familiar with how crowded it gets and stood near the bar because there was nowhere else for a group of six without blocking staff. A white woman at the bar immediately tapped us and told us to move. We explained that moving would just block someone else since the bar was full. She kept arguing, but we stayed. A nearby regular told us not to worry and agreed her attitude was uncalled for. Later, she escalated. She forced herself into the small space where two of our party (Friends #1 and #2) were standing, screaming, pushing, singing, and coughing in their ears to make them move. When that didn't work, she intentionally spilled a full glass of wine down Friend #2's back, soaking her. When we told the bar manager, he said "This lady has been a nuisance all night." and then told us to "Stand somewhere else if it's a problem." She was not removed. We did not move. She continued mocking my friends afterward. Eventually, she and her acquaintance left their seats for around 20 minutes. Another group took the acquaintance's seat without issue. When someone from our party, Friend #3, sat in the woman's empty seat -- the bartender immediately told him to get up. He calmly said he'd move if she came back. Less than a minute later, the bar manager got in his face and yelled "GET OUT!" loud enough for the whole bar to hear. Friend#3 did not immediately get up and asked why he was being asked to move. Wine lady reappeared at this point and the bartender and bar manager wouldn't allow Friend #3 to directly ask if she wanted her seat back. She did not say anything during this back and forth. The bar manager continued to shout at the top of his lungs while grabbing Friend #3 and pulling him toward the door, with security helping. Outside, things escalated further. The 6'3 bar manager continued aggressively pursuing him despite the fact that Friend #4, a 4'11" woman, was in between the two and trying to block him from getting any closer. Finally they split apart and a shouting match ensued. When we asked why throwing wine at other customers didn't warrant removal while our friend was physically ejected for sitting in an empty seat, the bar manager just said "Well, I can't keep track of the entire bar" despite previously admitting the lady had been causing issues after we immediately notified him of the incident. He quickly retreated back into the bar when we tried to press further. About 5 minutes later, Friend #2, who had the wine spilled on her, tried to approach him outside of the bar to talk about what happened. He immediately re-treated again. Friends #1, #2, and #4 are Black women. Friend #3 is Latino. No one in our group was white; everyone involved on the other side was. A white customer was allowed to harass and assault a black woman without consequence, while white staff escalated aggressively and physically against a Latino man over an empty seat. From the moment we walked in, we were treated like a problem. Staff admitted her behavior, admitted they didn't see everything, and still chose to side against us and threaten police involvement. This was an extremely horrifying experience, mainly due to the complete unfairness and lack of transparency on account of the staff. The bar manager was clearly on a power trip and blindly assigned blame to our party without consulting anyone else in our vicinity on what had happened. The entire night, other patrons were commenting on wine lady's absurd behavior towards us and could clearly tell she was the sole aggressor. The bar manager's escalation in reaction to her vacant seat being taken was both illogical and violent. This was blatant racism and was traumatic to experience.We are all reeling at the bitter irony of an establishment built on a genre of music that played such a vital role in advancing the civil rights movement in America, yet here it perpetuated the very behavior its founders fought against. read more

This the the definition of jazz! It feels like a cozy speakeasy where everyone can enjoy music and dance. My friend and I sat at the bar, and we could still hear the music from our seats. The bartenders are attentive and quick to get your order. Can't wait to go back. read more

Green Mill - Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This iconic jazz bar is a must-visit spot for any Chicagoan, or anyone visiting Chicago. The Green Mill has been offering up excellent live jazz and drinks for 100 years. Al Capone was a regular here! These days, the Green Mill still has some old world charm--it's cash only, the staff will "shush" you for talking during a set, and it gets crowded as the night goes on. You can come here in finery or vintage clothes or just torn up jeans and you'll feel right at home. This is a great spot for: dates, taking out of town visitors, drinking alone, drinking with friends, or generally vibing. This place offers drinks only but will let you carry in food from next door. If you want to be sure to get a table arrive at 7 or 7:30 for an 8 o'clock show. read more

Green Mill - The Alan Greshik swing orchestra plays every Thursday night. - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great live music, friendly staff, strong drinks. It was a fun atmosphere. The only reason it didn't get five stars is how difficult it was to get a seat, so we ended up sitting at a dirty table and it took quite a bit of time to get the table cleaned and drinks ordered. I think that problem is easily solved with more wait staff as I only saw two waiters and the place was packed. read more

The Green Mill is a fun night out every now and then! I believe they are cash only so be prepared for a cover when you get there. Also the seats fill up fast so you want to get there early if you want a good view of the live music. Fun music and tasty cocktails! read more

Everyday here is the best day. I love Green Mill so much. I can come in angry and find happy pleasant people joking around. They have a *free* show in the middle of the day Saturday that actual very famous comedians might drop in on. The host bands are always so talented and fun. Because this place is an amazing living historical icon with reliably talented performers, it is always very crowded. You need to arrive over 30 minutes before showtime to have a chance at finding a seat. They try to help you the best they can. They'll eventually put out a few more folding chairs. It's hard to get a drink because they are so crowded. Just wait for the waitress to come around (the waitress might even do a set, this is the best place). read more

Been wanting to try this place for a while. Me and a friend went on a saturday night for the 8pm show. Cash only, luckily there's lots of atms nearby. We showed up around 7:15 to get seats towards the front, it started to get pretty full by around 7:45/50. Was a little old fashioned for the interior but definitely a vibe. Cover was $20 which felt like a lot but it's worth it. Drinks were good, I had some chianti wine can't complain. Artist was the alexander mclean project, really enjoyed them! The band was having a great time, the audience was super into it, the people at our table were super friendly as well. Really had a good time! Definitely hope to be back some time. read more

Green Mill - inside - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Music was great, waiters are incredibly rude and don't care to even try with customer service. Waiter tried to argue with me because my husband and I decided to go to the bar after they took twenty minutes to come back for our order. Would probably not go back which is a bummer because I enjoyed everything but the service. They need new staff entirely because these people don't care about their jobs obviously. read more

The Green Mill is a Chicago classic and one of my favorite spots for live jazz. The atmosphere is timeless--dim lights, vintage decor, and incredible musicians every night. It's cash-only at the bar, but the drink prices are surprisingly good for the quality and setting. If you're looking for real Chicago charm and smooth jazz, this place delivers every time. read more

Horrible bartenders. Shitty music The place stinks. Used to go when Dave owned the place but it's gone downhill ever since he departed. read more

This place has a lot of history, once Al Capone's favorite hangout. We got a drink at the bar without charge and listened to some bluegrass music. Once the other musicians were setting up, they walked around asking if we planned to stay; if so, we would have to pay the $10 cover charge. We decided to leave at that time. read more

It was my first visit to this historic Chicago icon and we had an excellent time watching Sheila Jordan's set. A jazz legend with sass and class, Sheila was a delight to behold. Her show was standing room only. Although we arrived later in the evening, with space being tight, the experience was overall enjoyable. The Green Mill definitely has dark lounge vibes. I love the period décor. It's a very intimate venue with a small stage and a very long bar. You need to arrive early to get seated. Drinks are solid and made well. There is no drink menu. Order what you want. Often times the bartender will make it for you with a few exceptions (listed on their website). Depending on the popularity of the show, cover charge can vary but the cover charge for 2024 ranges anywhere from $20-25 per person on a weekend. Cover is probably cheaper on weekdays when they host unknown stage acts. Parking is challenging in this neighborhood as there is no dedicated parking lot. If driving in, you'll need to resort to the streets for parking. We opted to Uber to and from. I would recommend a rideshare if you live relatively nearby, plan on drinking and wish to avoid the hassle of finding/walking to your parking space at night. The area can get seedy at times. Don't let that deter you from visiting though. It's a nice place to catch a jazz set or a variety show. I think it would be a ton of fun to come during their swing nights when they open up the floor for dancing. For a taste of Chicago nightlife and history, make the Green Mill a part of your itinerary. read more

Green Mill - The scene on 2.10.24. Standing room only for Sheila Jordan. - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Doorman was rude and when I asked how long he thought it might be he told me "until there's room". I said, pardon me as someone visiting from out of town and based on his experience what he thought. He told me to just wait. Overall, he was the most rude person I've met thus far. Find another bar, avoid the jackass at the door. read more

Visited on a rainy Monday night with friends, which was still packed to the brim! The cover was $10/person. The entire business is cash only! read more

Green Mill - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Ambiance was amazing and music was great. The only downside was how passive aggressive the waitre was. It was our first time and we didn't know you got served at the table, we told her our boyfriends were getting drinks at the bar and she cut us short saying "no no no you don't do that this is how I pay my rent". My bad for not knowing how it worked?? It was my first time in here read more

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Swift bat service, excellent respect for musicians and the music-loving patrons. If you want to chat it up, this isn't the one for you if there is a band playing. read more

Green Mill - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I had given up on yelp, but I'm so frustrated and sad I have reinstalled it just to write this review. So strange. This place is one of the legendary must- visits in Chicago, I have sent so many friends here through the years, and have always adored it. It's been one of my favorite spots on the entire planet for 40+ years. Now, though, not so sure. Somehow the owners have hired a manager who's literally washed-up trailer trash, and she's brought in all her friends to hang out and work there. It's so truly awful, it's unspeakable. You're in this legendary bar with insanely talented musicians and happy customers and then just the worst possible support staff -- the bartenders are still lovely -- it's a real mess. So disappointed and sad. Everyone suffers. Please, please get rid of that terrible terrible manager, she'll be just as successful cleaning the toilets at KOA (Kampgrounds of America) sites. She'll be happier, too. read more

LOVE THIS PLACE but the heavy set woman by the door is absolutely bonkers. This place is a total gem and incredibly beautiful with amazing talent. Drinks are amazing, staff was great aside from the heavy set woman that seems to manage the place or have some strange hold on it. She is absolutely bat shit crazy. This nut was yelling at me and kicking me out for absolutely no reason whatsoever. I did nothing wrong and was a respectful, paying patron. She had a problem with me when I walked in and didn't even utter a word. Total whack job. Get on a treadmill and find happiness, creep. Taking your unwarranted misery out on innocent bystanders is terrible all around aside from poor business practices. You need therapy. Take your manipulative control and abuse issues out on yourself. To be unnecessarily abused for no good reason is disgusting behavior. Terrible business practices. Now I understand why some of Chicago's top jazz musicians complain about Green Mill and refer Andy's Jazz. Get it together Green Mill. read more

Chicago staple! Totally loved the vibe in that place, live jazz music! Different performers each night. I feel like I was transported back in time to the Capone/speakeasy days. Cash only!!! Be there early if you want a table, love that they shush the crowd so that everyone can hear the music! It can get crowded, if you are at the bar expect a wait for a drink. Service seems faster at table. read more

Green Mill - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Green Mill is super cool. It's super busy, even on week nights. Even if you're not a jazz fan, the ambiance is stunning. They really don't make architecture like this anymore. Such an old school Chicago glamour feel. Pro-Tip: CASH ONLY, but ATM on premise and a Chase less than 5 min walk Pro-Pro-Tip: Get there early so that you can have a seat, otherwise, you'll be standing. read more

Maybe I got particularly lucky on my visit but I was only in Chicago for a couple nights and this place was recommended by a local friend. I was initially hesitant to leave the downtown area where my hotel was by oh my goodness am I glad I came out to this. I can't review every aspect of this place as a tourist but the main reason I'm giving it 5 stars is because of the ambience and music. By some incredible stroke of luck I caught "The Mighty Blue Kings" and they did a Christmas-inspired set that was one of the most fun live music experiences I've had to date. The whole crew is incredibly talented. The crowd participation songs were excellent because the crowd was excellent. Lots of friendly folks. As far as drinks go, I tried a Sidecar on the rocks for the first time and it was excellent (especially if you like citrusy drinks). It does get hot (because it's so crowded) and they are cash only but those honestly weren't issues for me. ATM right down the street and the heat of the crowd and activity made it all the more authentic and fun. read more

Green Mill - The crowd density says it all. People don't mind being cozy here. - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Just went last night. Vibe seemed really cool, but every worker from the guy at the door to the barback to the bartender seemed to not care that we were there and were incredibly unhelpful and cold towards us. We ended up leaving before getting a drink or hearing any music because the bartender took at least 15 minutes to attend to us (bar was mildly busy, but come on) and once he did he walked away instead of helping us order I feel like it's unnecessary to be that antagonistic towards your patrons. I was disappointed because I'd heard great things from friends who had gone before read more

This joint is the real deal! Jazz club experience I always wanted to enjoy. And I did. Too bad it is cash only.

Unless you are spending time with someone you dislike tremendously (which, why would you?), I would not recommend green mill. Came here as it's a "Chicago staple" but what a disappointment it turned out to be. I should've recognized the tone was set by the aggressive, rushed, and blunt door man who said "IDs and $20 cover" and spoke no further words. He couldnt have been colder. Well - this is the tone of Green Mill. Agreed with the review from 13 years ago (!!!) saying they haven't been shushed since middle school. I was with friends and we just made very quiet remarks here or there - respectfully, due to the live music. However, this IS a bar, right? Never in a million years did I think we'd get dirty looks and SHHHHHHHd by not only 20+ patrons but their BARTENDER. Hard no from me dog. Oh - and I was DRIPPING sweat the entire time. Ac? Fans? Air flow??? Byeeee! read more

Wife and I both agree. F**k this place. Having a normal conversation with drinks after paying $40 to get in the door. Some A hole in a grey shirt says we're being too loud. I stand with the rest of the crowd applauding the band. Next thing I know I'm being man handled. My advice to him was to call the police. Instantly drops his hold on me. We would tell you to avoid this place like the plague! The best way we could describe this treatment was how fast can they turn bodies through the mill. As tourists we were appalled at the treatment. Please don't step foot in this sh*t heel establishment read more

Green Mill - Pizz poor service and hospitality - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Chicago, Illinois