Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Green Mill

    3.6 (1.2k reviews)
    Open 4:00 pm - 1:00 am (Next day)

    Green Mill Photos

    GREEN MILL ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Live music
    Loud
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Green Mill

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    front stage and seating
    Diana K.

    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.

    Fran L.

    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.

    Maria A.

    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.

    Interior
    Andrea D.

    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.

    Outside views
    Genie L.

    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.

    Post the stampede, hard to see but it's slammed
    Laura P.

    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.

    Bar
    Jessica L.

    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.

    The Alan Greshik swing orchestra plays every Thursday night.
    A D.

    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.

    inside

    See all

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Fran L.
    159
    601
    5070

    7 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 3
    Love this 4
    Oh no 1

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 3
    Love this 2
    Oh no 2

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of A D.
    63
    69
    28

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rpisces G.
    893
    388
    58

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nina H.
    119
    636
    6939

    2 years ago

    Helpful 18
    Thanks 4
    Love this 23
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Gaby H.
    106
    13
    22

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of R M.
    6
    29
    0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 2

    10 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 2

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Terry L.
    150
    23
    9

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 3
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

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

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 2
    Love this 4
    Oh no 6

    1 year ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 3
    Love this 1
    Oh no 3

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 30

    Green Mill Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Green Mill

    How loud is music? Can you come here for a first date and have a conversation?

    NO! The staff is rudely and continuously shhhing everyone as if this were a library vs a bar. Ridiculous.

    Is there food?

    No.

    They open at 12pm so if I come at 12pm what do we do if there aren't any live jazz nor food serving? We can just have a drink like a bar?

    Yes you can get a drink and in my experience there is usually always music going (except for intermissions)

    Would Friday night or Saturday night be the best day to attend? What time? Thanks!

    I would suggest weekdays vs. weekends, less people. Friday and Saturdays are packed. But if you decide to go, I would say 8-9pm.

    Are 18+ allowed to enter (not buying drinks)?

    No...they card

    Can you enter, not drink, if you are 18? Or do you have to be 21+?

    Must be 21+

    If you go before the show starts do you still pay cover charge? There's a show 3-5 and then 8-12. Just curious if i go at 7 if i still pay? Anyone know?

    Yes they will walk around and collect the cover

    What is the poetry slam scheduel?

    Poetry Slam is every Sunday from 7-10 pm

    View All 12 Questions

    Review Highlights - Green Mill

    Our server was a little rude and I honk just tired from answering where Al Capone's favorite table was located.

    Mentioned in 114 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Elixir Lounge Andersonville

    Elixir Lounge Andersonville

    (50 reviews)

    $$

    Andersonville, Edgewater

    Another fantastic cocktail bar! The drinks here are unique, interesting, and nuanced…read more I'd ordered the Sage Society, and it took slowing down, but I did detect the light whisper of Ancho Reyes. It was also approachable, lightly herbaceous, with a little sweetness and acid. Between us, was this among my favorites? No. However, this is more a matter of personal taste than something technically or otherwise wrong. I prefer cocktails that are bolder and more spirit forward. My advice is to talk to your bartender and find something you will enjoy most. To help not drink on an empty stomach, I ordered the Crispy Shrimp Tacos. As far as bar (gastropub?) food, these were extremely respectable. The shrimp was cooked very well, and the use of greens and onions helped offer a balance and freshness. As a note, the space inside is small and intimate, and I've no complaints about the service. Final verdict: If you're looking for a unique cocktail, in a small and intimate space, the Elixir Lounge fits the bill. The menu has a couple food options too, so you won't be drinking on an empty stomach.

    This is a nice, dimly lit lounge tucked in Andersonville with great drinks and food! We tried their…read moreseasonal Peachy Green and RHU-mance drinks, and they were really good. The Peachy Green reminded me of a green tea shot in drink form, perfect for spring and summer. I got my favorite mac and cheese with crispy chicken, and my friend got Brussels for her appetizer, which were delicious. For our entrees, we had the teriyaki burger and shrimp tacos. They were pretty good, just get a side of teriyaki if you love sauce like I do. We ended the night with a cookie skillet and brownie, perfect! Chris was an amazing server, can't wait to return.

    The Baton Show Lounge

    The Baton Show Lounge

    (277 reviews)

    $$

    Uptown

    A friend and I went here last night…read more I wouldn't recommend it at all. The performers overall were just meh. It was entirely over-priced for what it is. $15 cover charge per person plus there's a 2 drink minimum ($12-15 per drink for weak rail drinks) with an 18% automatic gratuity. You're also expected to tip every single time a new performer comes around for each song. If it was top notch performers, I'd have no problem at all with this but overall, they were ok to meh to just not good. The worst thing about this place though and what really even prompted me to leave a review at all was our server. She was horrible and flat out rude! She came around after about 35 minutes and asked if we would like another drink. We replied "We're good for now. Thank you." And she snapped back, "You need to buy two drinks each. There's a 2 drink minimum." We were like, "Umm, ok. When we finish these drinks we'll order another one." And after she walked away my friend and I both looked at each other and were like, "WTF was her problem?" ZERO customer service skills. Uhh, maybe inform us of that fact without being a complete female dog? I have no problem with a two drink minimum and we planned on getting another drink anyway, but when we're not quite ready for our next drink, don't treat us like a misbehaved child and scold us. She could have simply stated, "Just to let you know, there is a two drink minimum per person. Just let me know when you're ready for your next round," or something similar that didn't scold or reprimand us. Her bad attitude just really pissed me off. When ordering our second round of drinks, I had ordered a long island iced tea. She brought me the wrong drink. So in addition to her attitude, her attention to detail also sucked. I said nothing and just drank it as it was a screwdriver, which I ordered the first round. But to be rude and bad at your job? Truly check yourself, lady. We're customers who did nothing wrong. Can you maybe put forth a single ounce of effort to not be such a See You Next Tuesday? The second star is for the effort that 4/5 of the queens at least put forth. Overall, save your money and go somewhere else or just stay home and use the money to order take out.

    I love visiting this place with friends that come from out of town and because our friend Barbie…read moreworks there and is always so good to us when we visit. So we went this past Friday night with our group of friends visiting from Texas. Lizzie and her parents enjoyed the 9:30pm performance, and our friend David and Lisa joined us too. As always, the performance and experience performers were very intertwining. This is definitely a great place to celebrate birthdays, bachelor's, and Bachelorette parties. I was happy to say hello to the owner and our friend Barbie. Please come one night for the food and drinks and most of all for the show you won't be disappointed at all. Parking is a little hard, so plan ahead because there are other theaters nearby. We Uber here so that we can drink and be responsible and safe.

    Elixir - Montage of images from Elixir

    Elixir

    (119 reviews)

    $$

    Lakeview

    We have been to Elixir a few times and it is always a great choice for unique and delicious…read morecocktails! It is a cozy little bar with dim lighting perfect for a date night drink. The bartenders are always very friendly and check in often which is always appreciated. You're always immediately given little pretzels to snack on which I love as a unique touch. This time we both chose a more standard cocktail, but they also always have very unique and delicious seasonal cocktails which are always amazing! I would definitely recommend Elixir to anyone looking for a spot to grab a quick and delicious cocktail!

    On our first night in Boystown, Jamie W and I were pretty overwhelmed by the crowds at Sidetrack…read moreand Roscoe's, so we ended up coming here to make Jamie's virginal gay bar debut. It was the right move because it had the kind of chill vibe we were seeking after a long flight from SFO. Fortunately there were two seats at the bar with our names on them. Figuratively speaking. They had quite a signature cocktail list on hand, and we felt it was our obligation to try as many as we could. At least that was what we said to ourselves as the evening wore on. Each cocktail was $14. We started with a couple of familiar libations. Jamie ordered the Mint Julep, a delightfully Deep South mix of bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint (photo: https://yelp.to/u-td8LdPLj). I went further south with the Pineapple Margarita which was emboldened by a tropically potent mix of pineapple infused tequila, lime juice, and agave (photo: https://yelp.to/V-Sf6Q_2qK). We got a bit bolder with our second round and found mixed results. Jamie had the Not Your Mom's Daiquiri which amped up the margarita by blending pineapple-infused tequila with Bacardi 8-year rum. Along with fresh lime and simple syrup, this one definitely had more of a kick (photo: https://yelp.to/1ZijDf6wMV). However, my order, the Pontiac Pony, was a spicy miss for me. It was a rather oddball mix of apple-cinnamon infused vodka, pear liqueur, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and ginger beer (photo: https://yelp.to/5dQoFdzG98). There was just a harshness that didn't sit well on my tongue. Oh well, the mellow vibe was cool. COCKTAILS - 4 stars...three out of four cocktails were aces, just one clinker AMBIANCE - 4 stars...very chill, fairly quiet for Boystown SERVICE - 4 stars...cool bartenders TOTAL - 4 stars...check it out when you take a break from your Boystown cruising RELATED - Exploring Chicago? Here's my collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/44c4CZO

    Barra Ñ - Drinking Quilmas

    Barra Ñ

    (319 reviews)

    $$

    Avondale

    Overall it's fine. Music was loud, so a little hard to have a conversation while eating. Service…read morewas decent. Food was just ok, definitely overpriced. Probably best to stick to the steaks for the mains, which is their specialty I believe. The steak sandwich (lomito) was fine. Fries are fine. The milanesa was just ok--didn't have enough seasoning. Drinks can vary, and have specific descriptions, but they are not all made how the menu says, like ice and garnishes. El chato was tasty, but the Buenos Aires de Noche was missing something. Empanadas are fantastic BUT they were out of a bunch of them and they just opened for the evening, which was unfortunate. Desserts are solid, including the flan, alfajores, mil hojas, and the vainilla y coco pastel. I recommend saving room for dessert!

    Really great neighborhood spot for dinner or drinks…read more I went here last night for my birthday with my best friend.. we always do a little dinner just the two of us. This was my first time at Barra Ñ even though I've heard about it many times. It's a dark and moody vibe inside, the bar was lively and busy, and yet the table areas were pretty quiet and chill. Service was solid, all of our requests were handled quickly and pleasantly. Dani, who greeted me upon arrival and checked in on us several times, was a real sweetie. He brought a wonderful levity and energy to the entire feel of the place. He was also very helpful and constantly keeping an eye out for anything anyone needed. The food was solid. The filet was excellent and a very generous portion. Perfectly cooked to my request. The mashed potatoes were great and I ordered a side of the mushroom sauce that comes with another dish to enjoy with the potatoes and that was a great call. That mushroom sauce is so savory and delightful! Hoping to come back soon to try different drinks and more apps. The birthday dessert was very kind of the staff and really lovely!

    Guild Row - Po Boy Catfish

    Guild Row

    (4 reviews)

    $$

    Avondale

    I wish more people knew about how amazing Guild Row is! My husband and I sort of stumbled upon it…read moreone afternoon. They have a huge outdoor patio, and we decided to eat lunch there. What a calming space - both indoors and outdoors. There are plenty of tables to sit and do work. There are numerous outlets outside so that your devices will never die on you! The bar opens at 3pm. We were there earlier so we grabbed an espresso and enjoyed the sunshine. The patio is dog-friendly! I can't wait to go back this week and get some work done!

    Got to visit Guild Row and their new LTO ("LIMITED TIME ONLY") which is a patio bar and restaurant…read more LTO features Po'Boy, Wine, Live Music and soft serve ice cream. This restaurant is only available for a limited time through the summer months of 2024. We were fortunate to attend an After Party Popup sponsored by Motorshucker with complimentary food samples and wine from Regalis & Cream. We were able to divulge in some yummy caviar (Regalis Ostera Noir) and oysters. In addition to some lite bites of salami, meats, cheeses and peppers. These all came from Regalis and were delicious. I would definitely like to try their full size charcuterie board this summer. I may even try to order some charcuterie meats and cheeses from Regalis. They were premium quality. LTO also had for purchase their full menu. We ordered the Catfish Po Boy and Kettle Chips. Very impressed with this sandwich. They did a good job of frying the fish and the hoagie bread was perfect. The kettle chips compliment the sandwich. The Raventos i Blanc was the favorite wine tasted on this occasion. Guild Row itself is very cute co-working space. Lots of tables, couches and comfy areas to work. This space serves also as a social club. I could see how combining the two are a perfect pair. The members only lounge had a full service bar: liquor, wine, and beer. Our evening was awesome. We enjoyed the sounds of the live music, the divine smells coming from the fire pit. Would definitely consider a membership as a person that WFH and will be on the look out for more opportunities to visit LTO (no membership needed).

    Green Mill - jazzandblues - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...