Friendly and lively dive bar (4/5 Green Stars) Waiting for take-out from nearby Lou Malnati's, we wandered into Rossi's for a quick drink. It's a reasonably-priced busy dive bar in the heart of Chicago. I asked the bartender if she had a beer + shot deal and she said "no, but you can order a beer and shot." And so we did! Noise level is fairly high, thanks to a lively crowd plus a jukebox. They don't normally serve food but I think are fine with customers bringing in your own food, and you can also place an order from a nearby restaurant (I don't recall which one). And yes, it's cash only so bring some money if you don't want to pay ATM fees! 4 out of 5 Green Stars for social and environmental impact. I like bars that allow customers to bring (or order) their own food - it allows for all diets! The one thing I'd like to see is more beer on tap - even just one good rotating local beer (e.g., Goose Island). Draft beer has smaller environmental footprints compared to bottled or canned. read more

Rossi's Liquors - PBR and Bulleit rye - reasonably priced :) - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Recently stopped by Rossi's Liquors and this place is the definition of a dive bar, in the most authentic way possible. After a quick ID check at the door, the bouncer let us know it's cash only (thankfully we came prepared). From the moment we walked in, dim lighting, loud music, and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds gave the vibe of a full-on frat party, but not in a bad way. It's chaotic, energetic, and unapologetically no-frills. There's even a self-serve cooler with drink prices clearly listed underneath. I grabbed a Sapporo Premium, brought it to the counter, and our friendly bartender broke our change and offered a chilled glass to pour it into. Simple and efficient. That said, it was loud, so loud that even whispering-distance conversations were a struggle. The space is small, seating is limited, and since we couldn't snag a spot, we ended up leaving shortly after finishing our drinks. This feels like a better weekday hang than a packed weekend night. Still, if you're looking for a classic, gritty, no-frills dive experience, Rossi's delivers exactly that. read more

This place has great vibes and bartenders! Only downside is the place is small and can get really crowded. Otherwise I would always recommend coming here for a drink and a good time! Keep in mind it is CASH ONLY which the doorman will remind you if which is a nice touch. First time here but feel like would be better on a weekday so easier to get a seat but even on a fri night only waited 10min for a bar seat. Come on over and bring some drinks xtra cash for drinks and tipping the amazing bartenders!! read more

Rossi's a great time for dive bar lovers, almost like a hidden gem amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown / River North Chicago. You walk up to the fridges, pick your hoppy and bottled (or canned) poison, and check out at the counter. Do note it's cash only. There's no food options but I read you can bring outside food in. read more

Probably the true definition of Dive Bar, Rossi's is worth at least a fly-by. It is a bit dark, a bit small, but still fun. Limited seating and even limited standing room. You can grab you own beer from their refrigerators, however, you'll need to pay and have the bar open them for you. I was impressed by the variety of the selection. Keep in mind it is cash only and swing by for a drink! read more

Great downtown dive bar! I have a strong affinity for dive bars and this one did not disappoint. I'm only upset that it took me this many years to find this place. With a huge selection of beers, ciders and seltzers including a large selection of imports in a cooler with 4 different doors for access. The uniqueness of this bar is that you grab what you like, DO NOT OPEN IT and bring to the bar. The tender will open it and charge you. Don't grab that credit card because they only take cold, hard, cash! The Cubs game was playing on the tubes and it was busy with a fun crowd and standing room only. Walking in made me reminiscent of my college days with the smell and feel of many patrons drinking on a warm summer's day. Not off-putting, just a noticeable "feel." read more

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Great little hole in the wall bar. A first for me getting my own beers from the coolers but it was a blast. Seems like it can get a bit packed inside when super busy but if you don't mind crowds you will love this little quirky gem of a bar! read more

Epic dive bar!!! Bring cash and select your beverage from the fridge. So fun and chill. If you lucky you can get your songs played on the jukebox too! read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Stopped in for a drink the other night. Small tavern that gives you the warm fuzzies. Good service at the bar, June box was rocking. Worth a try if you don't mind a dark, noisy, small bar read more

Love the ornery old bird. If you close the place out, she might make you drink the Malort. Have one but avoid more if you can.

I've been back to Rossi's a few times in the past months while going to concerts in Chicago, and maybe as I've gotten older being ignored at the bar for 20 minutes has gotten old. I used to love coming here with friends when I lived in Chicago, and the atmosphere is still lively, dive-ly. I'm a fan of their craft and European beer cans selection in the coolers- take the can to the bar and do not open it- but the wait to be noticed will be long, it's not even worth it. Just get a High Life or Lite for faster service. Still would go back with a group of friends, Rossi's is at least a breath of fresh air in River North. read more

Rossi's Liquors - a man at the bar - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I was visiting Chi-town for a work related functionand asked my buddy who lived there for years for a dive bar suggestion before my arrival. I was there with a friend who made me go to a few of his places, and this was my first spot I chose. I wanted divey, and this place delivered. It's a shot and a beer kind of place and it's a liquor store originally that's been around for a while. It was pretty crowded and took a bit to get a shot and a beer, but we were tourists so I get it .. ( I don't do a shot and beer often, but felt compelled at this rowdy joint). Music was loud and it was a mixed crowd dive. I loved it. When I go back to Chicago I'll hit it up and grab an Italian beef somewhere in the neighborhood :) read more

Everyone should go at least once in their lives here. Grab your friends, struggle through a Mallort, and play chaotic music choices. Came here with a group of coworkers that were mostly out of towners because of a conference we were all at. It was a nice vibe with great beer selection and pretty reasonable prices all around. Not much space and extremely short staffed. It's cash only with an ATM, but with only one bar tender working, you might wait to get a drink (or if you get a drink from the fridge, you have to wait for the bar tender to open the bottle for you lol). It's loud in there and a bit tight in space so not good for large groups, but we managed to make it work somehow. Bartender could occasionally get cranky (to be expected since she was the only one working). Chill crowd and a nice vibe overall read more

We went to Rossi's yesterday to pre game the Blues Fest... let's just say we ended up staying a lot longer then intended top 5 best dive bar I've ever been too. Good music, good people, cheap beer, cold beer. Can't beat it. I'm already looking forward to the next time we go. read more

Rossi's Chicago is the real deal if you're looking for a true dive bar experience in River North. I stopped by while in town for the Blackhawks/Kings game, and it was busy but had a great atmosphere. The bartenders were friendly and efficient, keeping things moving even with the crowd. Definitely a solid spot to grab a drink if you want something unpretentious in an area full of upscale options. Would absolutely return! read more

Went to Chicago on a guy's trip and went to Rossi's based on a Google search. This is such a great bar and has an incredible vibe. We spent hours here and had a great time with our bartender, Cynthia. read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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So this is not a liquor store, it is a small bar with many beer choices. Do kit open needs from the cooler, take them to the bar. Super tiny; super fun. I loved the 80yr old woman running the bar. read more

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When in Chicago, Rossi's is my kind of dive bar / liquor store. All walks of life - service industry- ceo executive - truck driver - who cares. All welcome. Good drinks. read more

Just a classic no-nonsense bar. Bring cash as they don't a accept plastic. With everything around it changing and developing, Rossi's is a throwback. I love the beer cooler in the back, a solid offering and selection of beers. Pick what you want and bring it to the bar for it to be opened. Just a classic spot read more

Rossi's Liquors - Classic - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A server down the street at a restaurant highly recommended this dive bar and said it's likely one of the last of its kind in the River North area. My parents were visiting from out of town, and we came here after dinner based off of that recommendation. The bouncer was nice and actually was the one who poured us drinks. Very much so giving dive bar energy lol. The place was great for a quick drink to go elsewhere. Bathroom is typical of a dive bar. read more

Perfect dive vibes. We've been for evening cocktails and an early morning post-late night bloody. Incredible bartenders and the most chill space, it's small and cash only so be cool about it. read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Amazing. What a hidden gem! Frank quality service. Murph is yer man, lots of famous people hear. Grab a pizza and a great pint. Music jamming. Not shure about dogs...didn't sea any. read more

Rossi's Liquors - Ally Hambo has bean hear. - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

An awesome "dive bar" with a very friendly atmosphere and great drinks. If you're an adventurist, try a shot of mallört. I simply love this place and felt "at home" the moment I walked in. Cash only!! read more

We stopped in while in town for our work Christmas. Fun little dive bar. Grant the bartender was grrat

Great bar, super chill overall with a great vibe. The bartender was really kind and super easy to talk to as well which made the overall experience even better! read more

such a cool dive bar! they make it clear that they are cash only and they have an atm inside. friendly staff, friendly vibe, diverse individuals, good music (i like a little bit of everything) and affordable drinks! as a dive bar lover from california, i would 100% come back. read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

When friends suggested a downtown locals-type bar after a play, I was, of course, an enthusiastic, "Yes." I could see how Rossi's could get very crowded, but our group of six nabbed a table and eventually stools when another group left. They have a rock-solid beer selection with a few on tap and many more bottles and cans in the cooler. You will find plenty of both local and non-local libations. Patrons make a selection from the cooler and bring it to the bar for the bartender to open. Customers are not to open their own. I've never seen this before in any bar, but it worked well since it was not too crowded. I do not think I would favor the setup if the place was packed. Not sure I'd roll the dice on the place with a group again, just because space could be an issue in the small space. I would certainly love to return with just my husband or a friend. read more

Must stop dive bar if anywhere near. Great vibe with great bartenders and awesome patrons! Should have stopped a day I didn't have a flight to catch, as I didn't want to leave. Despite being from out of town, I felt right at home and wanted to spend the whole day there! Super reasonable prices and cash only. Bring your cash, leave the BS at home, and spend the day !! read more

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Best dive bar in Chicago'! Desiree is awesome! Tip your bartender well and take care of them so they'll take care of you. Super divey little spot that's welcoming to everyone. Don't skip it! read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We had fun the bar tender was great. Music was good. Service was fast. I would stop back!!! I'm read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Wow! What an unpleasant experience! My husband and I got in to Chicago late late yesterday, and popped by. We had a lovely experience. It was close to our hotel, and my husband and I had a lovely two beers. (It was was a extensive beer selection.) The bar tenders were beyond nice, and the locals were lovely. There was no bouncer yesterday. We were visiting my husband's sister who is visiting from India and we met up the next day. After a nice dinner, we suggested going to a fun local dive bar that was close to our hotel. We were literally chased out of the bar by the bouncer. He appeared to be drinking in the bar. He yelled at us as we walked in the bar and insisted we walk out. We promptly , stepped out. He yelled at us repeatedly to step back once outside, which we did. After screaming at us again and again to step back, he insisted we showed our vaccination cards. Everyone in my party was fully vaccinated with boosters. In fact, my SIL and her boyfriend are doctors. Afer screaming at us to step out, he insisted my SIL was drunk. We had shared a pitcher of lager at dinner among 4 people with 2 pizzas. We were thrown out of the bar by the bouncer. I was quite ready to leave. It was a really upsetting end to the evening, and put a damper on the next place. We walked a block down to a bar a block away. Everyone there was lovely. Pretty much the same prices without the drama, and a fancier atmosphere. I do not know what the problem was, perhaps tourists are not welcome. I would not recommend this place to anyone. I would recommend that management tell the bouncer to stand somewhere near the door, and not scream at guests. Also, it might help if the bouncer wasn't drinking/drunk himself. The bar was quite empty when most of the other places in the area were 100% full. read more

This is exactly what we were looking for and randomly stumbled upon it! Serious Dive bar environment (which we love ) but great spirit selection and service. 5 read more

Definitely a great spot if you are into dive bars. Great music, great bartender, great affordable drinks. The plan was to stay for one, but we had three and then Kevin bought us a shot. Cheers! Cash ONLY...plenty of cans to choose from in the cooler, beers on tap and basic mixed drinks. Seems like the locals frequent this bar. read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Cash only bar, they do have an atm inside. Ambience is everything I excepted for a dive bar with reasonably priced drinks. They have a huge fridge of canned drinks like wine, cider, and beer. They have a dart machine in a corner by the bathroom but everyone is considerate when you are playing. You do need quarters for the machine! Bar has multiple tvs. Bartender was great! Would definitely come back. read more

Rossi's was my favorite dive bar on my visit to Chicago. It's dingy, worn, and dark. They have a great selection of micro-brews, top & bottom shelf liquors, rock and roll playing along with a friendly bartender. Cash only but they have an ATM read more

Rossi's Liquors - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place is what they say it is, a dive bar. The BEST dive bar. The ambiance is great. They have a wall of beers you can choose from along Miller High Life! Great service and prices. Read the rules! CASH ONLY. read more

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By far my favorite bar in all of Chicago. Don't tell anyone because I like to roll in here, have a couple bevies, chat with some locals, and get the hell out. Prices are amazing. Bartenders are awesome. The folks who sit down next to you...each have a story and each is more interesting than the next. These my friends are the reasons you belly up to a bar. Do it. Say hi. Don't be a dick...they will bounce you out and I might help em. read more

This bar is exactly as described. The bar tender was great and the beer was cold. They only take cash so plan ahead! If you are downtown Chicago and looking for a dive bar with no frills & the company is great, definitely grab a drink here! read more

Rossi's Liquors - Bar area - Dive Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Was really excited to visit this dive bar with some friends who are Chicago natives. Cash-only, reasonable prices, not super crowded...all good so far. However, the staff ruined the entire vibe in the first 5 min. Rude behavior, especially towards women, is something that I can't tolerate. Not returning to this bar. read more

Great atmosphere, affordable drinks, chill bartenders, low key and divey. Couldn't have asked for more on a warm day.