True neighborhood bar . During the day it reminds me a library (people reading and writing at their tables, bookshelves and maps on the walls) where you can order delicious draft beer or a coffee to go. I imagine the atmosphere is different in the evening, but I'd love to stop by and check it out. read more

The Map Room - On Tour Loose with the truth - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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A specific bartender went out of his way to be incredibly rude. Multiple people in our group were having the same issues with him. Beers were fine but we didn't stick around for more than one round. read more

Very cool beer bar with maps all over- only con would be that the name/bar theme is deceiving..they certainly are not as diverse with their beer origins. Mostly American and German beers. Not much else, but definitely a variety within those two countries! Pretzel rods for those that sit at the bar. read more

Fun place to have a few cold ones. The bartenders are very cool and provide excellent service. Great selection of anything you could want to drink. read more

This is a great place to grab coffee and get work done in a friendly environment. Elias always has a friendly smile and makes getting over the work day onto happy hour a joy. A+ read more

Covid update: they are open now for patio dining, and to go coffee/teas- DEFINITELY CHECK THEM OUT!!! right across from Starbucks you can support a local business and save so much money. We got a donut, muffin, large cappuccino, and medium latte for only $10.75!!! Everything was delicious, they brew inteligentsia coffee and their treats were actually very fresh and tasty I was pleasantly surprised. Our barista was SO nice and friendly, he really made the experience feel genuine. I would definitely recommend trying this spot- the prices are unbeatable and the flavor is out of this world. Plus, the inside is very interesting to look around read more

The Map Room appears on nearly every list I've seen of "must visit" Chicago bars, and I can't figure out why. The Map Room's decor is surely interesting. Opposite the bar, the wall is lined floor to ceiling with National Geographic magazines. The ceiling fans are unique and anchor the look. Other walls are wall-papered with various maps and flags from around the glove. A nice look, but hardly warrants a special visit. The beer list is extensive. Each pour is served in its prescribed glassware, a nice touch to be sure. I believe the Map Room's appeal must be for folks that want to be able to have a beer in a coffee shop. It's a nice place to open a laptop, drink a beer or two, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. read more

The Map Room - a glass of beer on a table - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Bar with interior that has map and travel decorations all over it. On a Saturday night there is no line to get in, but table space is limited (it is possible to reserve a table in advance for a large enough party). The beer selection on tap is large, and then they have even more bottle options available. And this is before mentioning that they offer a full bar and can make any cocktail you can name. The internal noise is reasonable (one major complaint I have about most other bars), so you can have a meaningful conversation at The map Room. As someone who enjoys a wheat beer, the on tap selection was limited to Allagash White, but there were bottle options I chose to forgo. read more

The Map Room - Allagash White - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Chicago has a million bars, probably. Amidst the plethora of options is The Map Room, my favorite spot for coffee, beer, and good music, especially while I work. Don't get too excited, it a Pandora playlist, not a live jam band, but if you like Motown, alt-country, bluegrass, and non-rock tunes, this is the place. I go to The Map Room once a week. They're open early, have a terrific breakfast sandwich, coffee, and good wi-fi. The bartenders are kind. Drew, one of the bar tenders, is friendly and provides excellent service, always. They serve Intelligentsia coffee. The beer list is extensive, and bouchée. There is something for every palate, from beer to liquor. If you want a break from the traditional coffee shop. If you like Chris Stapleton, Gillian Welch, or Jason Isbell. If you want coffee at 8am and a bourbon aged vanilla bean stout at 11am. The Map Room's for you. No children. No animals. read more

The Map Room - Vanilla Bean Stout, aged in a bourbon barrel, 10.2%. Excellent. - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Bartenders were very rude. They let me order a drink and then proceeded to tell me after I paid that I couldn't have my six month old inside the bar. Then when I was standing outside the bar talking to my family through the window they told me I couldn't be there either and that I'd have to leave my baby outside. Just very inconsiderate and unaccommodating to a new mom. Will not be going back and will no longer recommend to our friends. read more

I arrived at Map Room after escaping the madness that is downtown Chicago on St.Patty's day (or whichever day around the holiday that's celebrated). When I arrived around 3pm, there was a guy at the door that said they were at capacity and to wait in line. So, the 7 people standing outside weren't just smokers, they were waiting to get in. We decided to wait since several people were walking out of the bar, and luckily, we were inside within 5 minutes. The bar wasn't too crowded, which was a pleasant surprise after having to wait in line. We picked up a sticky beer menu at the bar, & began to narrow down my craft beer selections. Map Room has a great menu of craft beers, and they are at really decent prices! I had a Three Floyd's pale ale that was citrusy and delicious. After grabbing a beer, we mingled with some friends and hangout for a little while. Maybe it was the super busy day, but I felt like the bar was just ok. Overall, I would definitely go back if I was in the area, but I don't think I would make a special trip just to grab a drink here. read more

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This place was cool enough that I would come back whenever I'm in the area, which is saying something in a city with so many neighborhood bars!! It's pretty spacious and not too loud or busy with the exception of really late Friday or Saturday. Great list of beers and some cool cocktails. And the decor inside is nice. Affordable prices too for the area. read more

Loved this place. Was in Chicago for work with a sprained ankle. Hobbled my way into this bar and was greeted by two of the coolest bartenders on Earth. I can't remember either of their names, so I'll call them "cool ass black dude with braids" and "short, energetic white woman." Both were a blast to talk to and poured great drinks. The place has a cool vibe to it and is decorated with various globes and, as the bar's name suggests, maps. Bonus points for the guy that came by selling tamales (six for seven bucks). I thought that only happened in Houston. Turns out, not the case. Seemed like a great place for a laid back drink or five. I'll be going back the next time I'm in Chicago. read more

Love the inside. Back patio was nice. Tables were spaced out, staff practice social distancing/had masks. Nice selection of taps! read more

Decent selection and decent service but if you're not regular don't plan on anything special.

After all these years, I FINALLY made it. Did not disappoint. A real bar with real good beer.

The beer selection is solid. The bartenders attitudes could improve a lot. My friends and I were out late on a Friday and one of the women in the group wanted a shot because we always do a mixed shot the couple of times we see each other a year, its a sort of tradition. The bartender did say he even though he has bartended a lot, he didn't know shot recipes because that wasn't his experience. Fair enough, but these were pretty straightforward well known recipes and I explained the three ingredients and they were in equal parts. Then he says, what do you mean equal parts? I explain we've ordered three shots, that is one ounce of each ingredient. He still isn't following so I tell him its a three count of each as that is how I measure liquor as a bartender. He scoffs at this and walks away. Bottom line is that it is ok not to know something, but don't tell me how good you are and then not know basic skills like how to measure or get salty when I explain how it works. Find another job if you want to be rude and dismissive of customers. read more

Bumble date #2 blew up in flames at this fine establishment, located conveniently around the corner from my apartment! Despite the questionable company, the bar itself was great! It is a combo of coffee shop meets full bar with an extensive draft list. Bar has a really cool atmosphere and is much larger than expected with a lot of seating. Bartenders were attentive and knowledgeable about the beer list, which is important when its so vast! Beer...check. Next time I will definitely be trying the coffee, or even better, maybe an early morning bloody mary. As for the date, lets just say he didn't get as many stars as Map Room did.... read more

The Map Room - Shiegl Goldbrau - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Bartender was a douche for no reason, was mad that different people ordered individual drinks even though the place was dead on a Saturday night, and was rolling his eyes when we ordered a beer that was out as if we should have known this a priori read more

Omg what a hidden gem! My hubby and I stopped here on a rainy Sunday and I'm so glad we did! Belgian beers galore! A kick ass Bloody Mary! And endless travel literature to boot! You better believe we will be back. Bonus - you can get food delivered there! read more

The Map Room - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It's probably not fair for me to be eviewing Map Room because I'm not really a beer type of gal. Wine gal? yep. Martini gal? Hell yeah. But beer...not so much! And The Map Room is ALL about beer. For those who are into beer...The Map Room is pretty awesome because they have dozens and dozens of unique brews. My husband and I arrived here around 8pm on a Saturday night to meet a bunch of friends. We were immediately told by the bouncer we'd have to wait (in the cold!) cause they were at capacity. My bar waiting days are waaay behind me so I was just about to protest when a few peeps left the bar...making room for us. Phew! The hubby hit the beer list immediately while I decided against ordering a drink. They do have drinks besides beer here at The Map Room, but I felt a little silly ordering something else...and I had my fair share of sake at Mirai earlier in the evening. All of our drinking companions seemed to be enjoying their beer and one of our friends claimed that his beer tasted like meat. And he seemed excited about that? Hmmm... I'd much prefer a night at The Violet Hour, but have to give them props for being a beer lovers heaven. read more

This place has to be the worst bar on the map. Went in here and there was a guy literally passed out cold on the bar next to me. Eyes closed, dead to the world. Never to return. read more

The Map Room's atmosphere is perfect on a cold Chicago night when you are looking for a place to escape the cold in a cozy atmosphere. Also great for a summer day with the windows open and enjoying a game on tv with friends. Prices are cheap. CASH ONLY. No food served here. The Map Room is a destination spot for any fan of great beers in Chicago. Excellent selection of Belgian, European, and American craft beers. About 30 or so draft beer selections but over 200 bottled beer choices. If you are looking for a great neighborhood beer place in Chicago check out the Map Room! read more

Best people, best bar. And don't be afraid to ask questions! Lots of regulars but newcomers always welcome.

Did you guys see the review bitching about not being able to keep a newborn with them.. WTF? Why do people think they can bring babies to a bar? If I have to listen to a baby crying in a movie theater, I sure as hell don't want to hear that baby crying while I'm enjoying one of many awesome beers they've got available here. If you love beer you need to stop by and check out a few of what they've got. They offer nightly specials, but I don't think people are walking in for that. At least I'm not. I'm here for the selection of beers. If I have the chance to come in, its early week. When it's easier to get a bartender over with my next cold one and their not playing music, cuz their sound system blows. (In my opinion) Plus: Their bartenders are learned in their product and can offer advice on a beer you might like. read more

Good ol' Map Room. Kind of randomly, I've been there on both of my last two birthdays. This more recent time, I was a little worried about the place, because around 2pm it was totally dead. But sure enough, around work-letting-out time it started to fill up. Whew. The weekday specials are nice and help me to make decisions (e.g. Belgian bottles, non-Belgian drafts, etc). Their Friday special made me laugh out loud--"$5 MGD and Lite bottles." On Saturday--"You're already special." I'm going to keep them at five stars for sentimental reasons, but as much as I love the place, it's not as special as it used to be. Bars with great imported beer selections have become a mini-trend, so we brewphiles don't have to bounce between Map Room and Hopleaf anymore. However, I still love that I can come here on any afternoon, in any season, on any occasion, and get a table and enjoy conversation, or work on my laptop, or play Scrabble, or whatever. read more

I have gone here several times to work during the day. They have great coffee and an amazing atmosphere. My girlfriend and I met there the other day to have a beer. The bartender is friendly and knowledgeable. They also had a little meat and cheese spread that was complimentary. Last but not least, you can order food from an outside vendor (free delivery, but the price for each item has a dollar tacked on). Highly recommend and will continue to go back! read more

I drove an hour an a half to visit with Rogue Ale's President Al on his final stop on the Rogue Tour 2015. The Map Room is awesome! Its located on the corner of Armitage and Hoyne. Its one of those classic bars with the windows that are open and you can see the world from your vantage points. They have an active and current draft beer menu. I had the stickee monkee from Firestone Walker. It was delicious. I spent time with President Al and showed off my rogue nation card as well as Logan's rogue nation card. Worth the drive and I cannot wait to visit again. read more

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IS THAT A VAJAYJAY? I'm not kidding. I took me a few minutes to realize that their logo is actually some guy with a hat reading a map and not some sort of abstract caramel colored Fleshlight. I will chalk it up to blurred vision on account of the 300 incredible beers I consumed that night or hysteria induced by not being able to use my credit card. That is all. read more

The Map Room - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Wandered into this oasis with very low expectations. I had already heard that it was cash only) so I was prepared for that. Beyond that, I had no clue what to expect. People I talked to seemed to like it but no one really sold it. I am prepared to sell it a bit better. This place is a great spot! Yes, it's cash only. And, yes, that's kind of inconvenient. But, c'mon! We are a city that has proven willing to stand in long lines for a hot dog stand. We can't make a stop at an ATM for a worthy watering hole?? Of course we can! It was a very lovely day out when I went and all the windows were open to the street. My main regret was not snaring one of the stools at the window so I could people watch on the street AND people watch in the bar. National Geographics and old travel books line the walls everywhere. Perfect conversation starters if needed. The draft beer list is updated daily and they have a ton of bottle options. The beer prices are typical - not cheap but not higher than any other bar in the area. The vibe of this bar is totally relaxed. I could have hung out here all day quite happily. Free Wi-Fi too...so maybe I should have stayed there all day... So what do you need to know before going? - Cash only - No food (But apparently they have menus available of restaurants that will deliver there) - No kids. A woman came in with a baby carrier and I'm pretty sure I saw her turned away. (I felt bad for the mom and dad who were denied a beer in a comfy bar. But I also understood that this was a bar and not a restaurant. So maybe babies and kids shouldn't be there anyway.) I will be back Map Room! read more

The Map Room - Beer, beer, beer :) - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This place has an amazing selection of beer- none of which I was familiar with but by the end of the night I had found a new favorite! Note to all who go- your favorite American beers do not exist at this place. Shudder at the thought that I actually asked for a Miller Lite! The bartender looked at me with horror and dismay and then tossed a list at me of about 100 other beers that I could have. Hmm . . .decisions. .decisions. I finally gave up and let him pick something for me as it was a bit overwhelming! I didn't care too much for the first choice, but his second recommendation was great so I then spent the next 4 hours tasting it again and again and again!! The best time to visit this place is on a Summer night as they open the window walls to the street and it's almost like drinking outside. Since the windows face west, even on the gloomiest winter day- you can feel like Summer is coming. It's a bit smoky when those walls are not open but the people are fun and everyone wants to get in on helping you pick your next beer. The pool table in the back is also a great place to strike up a conversation. Tuesday night is International buffet night. Stop by after 7 and make sure to get a free dinner coupon. Buy two drinks- have the coupon stamped and you can eat free at their International buffet! What could be better than free?? Order a Belgium Beer, order a German beer, order an Irish ale, but never, ever even think of ordering a Miller Lite! read more

I love the Map Room! On nights that it's not overly crowded, it almost feels like home....except they have a bigger beer selection than I have at home. Lots of great beers on draft and tons of different bottled beers. There are usually 25-26 beers on tap, including some belgians. I would guess that there are probably over 200 bottled beers on their beer list. International night (Tuesdays) is kinda fun, although I admit I don't attend it very often. I'd also like to add that as a woman I feel comfortable wearing most anything to the Map Room. Sometimes my husband and I will stop in for a few beers after dinner and I'll be wearing a dress or skirt. I've never felt awkward or overdressed, but it might help that I know a lot about beer. I don't think it's possible to feel under dressed at the Map Room, unless you show up in a bathing suit! I'd recommend avoiding the Map Room on Friday and Saturday nights. It is usually very crowded and there will be a line to get in. The crowd is also different and the atmosphere overall is not as pleasant. If you plan to go to the Map Room and just order $5 Miller Lights, please do the rest of a favor a go elsewhere, you and your bad taste in beer are only taking up space. read more

The Map Room - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

It took forever to get here by public transit. This isn't the bar's fault, however it will definitely make me think twice about returning. Since they are working on the blue line, Saturday night we had to take the blue line shuttle to get here. It took and hour and a half to get here from Clark & Lake. I would have rather been drinking for that hour and half! The bar was okay, but I was in a pretty foul mood by the time I got here. I'm not a beer drinker, but I had out of town friends that I thought would be impressed by this place. One was, he was amazed they had several beers on tap he had never heard of. I was happy that they still had a full bar, even though they specialized in beer. read more

I like a place that is not pretentious. The Map Room fits the bill. Everyone is so laid back. Lots of different brews. Pretty reasonably priced. And when I was not sure what to order, the bartender let me sample the two I was considering, lest I make a choice I would not enjoy. read more

A friendly, neighborhood bar that attracts a variety of people: older couples, college-aged pals, people interested in watching sports -- even someone studying -- yet no one feels out of place. I prefer this vibe over the shoulder to shoulder, scream to the person next to you atmosphere that it apparently turns into at nights on the weekend. We could've stayed here for hours tasting the large variety of beers and flipping through the pages of National Geographic and planning future vacations. Just don't forget your cash! read more

This bar has character. It feels like stepping inside the pages of a national geographic... with a beer in hand. It's covered wall to wall with maps and flags, and features bookshelves stacked with national Geographic's throughout. Usually it's packed! Hard to find a seat after 9pm. Before that it's pretty relaxed. I most enjoy coming here early for some hearty stout and friendly conversation or studying with a lager in hand. Selection is great. Constant rotation of mostly Midwest microbrews. Why Midwest? They are the best! Last I indulged in a Founders Curmudgeon a most enjoyable libation. It was perhaps the most flavorful beer I've tasted. It's a strong 9% ale very sweet to the palate. read more

The Map Room - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Loved the very well-assembled selection of domestic local craft brews and notable international offerings, but in all honesty I was a bit put off by the bartender. I kindly asked to sample a few beers before deciding on a pint only to be unnecessarily informed that they don't do tasters. It was probably just a misunderstanding, but I'd appreciate better service especially when I already made it clear that I'd be getting a pint. Despite that, I enjoyed my glass of Central Waters Broken Window and would not mind coming back to relax with friends over more quality beer. read more

The bartender was really sweet, we were so happy with the fun atmosphere and will definitely be back to hang out some more!

On the third and likely final Map Room visit of my current Chicago stay, I was happy to find the Monday cold meat and cheese buffet back in operation. From the beer side, three more new items: - BuckleDown Shady Aftermath Robust Porter. 6.3% ABV. Dark but clear red-brown; one-finger tan head, lacing the glass. Coffee and raisin nose. Caramel-y roast malt; nutty; bitter burnt-coffee finish. - Pollyanna Nose Over Tail Maibock. 7.0%, 28 IBU. Clear amber; light white head, with lace. Weak malty nose. Nice balance of sweet bready malt and noble hops. Slight caramel and peach notes. - Deschutes The Dissident 2016 Reserve (bottled). Ale brewed with cherries, 40% of it aged in French oak pinot noir barrels. 10.9%, 30 IBU. Clear chestnut, light tan halo head. Winy nose, with a definite cherry presence. Tastes of sweet malt, Candi sugar, and cherry; ethanol warmth, and a slight funk, from its wild yeast strain. Overall, rather sherry-like, and delicious. read more

We had a grand time, yes, a grand time at the Map Room. Parking is located on the street outside, we got lucky with a spot outside the front door. My only, only complaint was that the bouncer outside could have been alittle more friendly while checking my ID. After looking at the ID and examining my face, he handed back my ID and "stared me down", like gangster stare down, while I walked inside. Not that I was intimidated, but I did take brief offense. Once inside, you'll see that the bar wall is lined with beers from around the world. Map bar has about 15 or so beers on tap, good choices too. We tried the Three Floyds which I am now a huge fan of. They also have the hard to get beers, one being my favorite which is a doppelbock, Celebrator. I can't see why people have complained about their service. Tom, a bartender at Map Room, was super friendly, offered us samples and suggestions of beers that might suit our tastes. **Make sure to bring cash, they no longer accept cards. We really had a great time and left feeling very good =) Next time we visit Chicago, we are hands down coming back again. read more

The Map Room - Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois