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    The Meadowlark

    4.5 (114 reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (Next day)
    Updated 1 month ago

    The Meadowlark Photos

    THE MEADOWLARK ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Intimate
    Romantic
    Classy
    Upscale

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    Recommended Reviews - The Meadowlark

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    Cady D.

    (Review from my visit back in late February. I read somewhere their Ad Astra menu is going away soon, so you should go asap if you want to try it!) I went here a couple years ago for their composition book menu, but had to come back to try their new Ad Astra space themed menu. I absolutely love the concept. All the cocktails are inspired by a planet. We tried the moon, mars, saturn, earth, and pluto. Loved all of them! They were all super inventive. Meadowlark is definitely in my top 5 cocktail bars in Chicago because I love the speakeasy aspect and also how unique their menus always are. Can't wait to see what they do next!

    Joan N.

    Expensive drinks but overall great vibe. Drink menu is a little overwhelming but bartender made something simple not on the menu

    So fun!
    Susie D.

    I have found what will be my newest favorite date spot in Chicago!! Although you have to have a party of four to make a reservation, so it must be a polycule outing or a double date to score a reservation. I went with my kids and had a blast in this richly decorated and beautifully lit speakeasy! I mostly stuck to the non-alcoholic options, the other three tried 2-3 of the regular cocktails and all were a hit! Our servers we're wonderfully attentive and knowledgeable, which was great since half the party has severe food allergies and the drinks all have nearly a dozen ingredients including butter, nuts, and eggs. So we had to be careful. Loved everything about Meadowlark and I can't wait to return.

    The moon
    Anita P.

    They rotate between themes! This night was solar system and I got the moon cocktail. There was a ton of variety on the menu and I thought my drink was just the right amt of sweet. Wait was abt 30 mins and the bartenders were very friendly. Will be back!!

    Kyle P.

    Excellent experience from top to bottom. Great ambience, from the speakeasy style front room to the cozy ambience of the bar itself. And the drinks, well... Expert level cocktails with some extremely impressive bites from Union/Lardon - the mushroom cabbage skewers are about as good a pure mushroom dish as I've had. The cocktails are delightful, tons of options on a rotating, thematic menu. Very thoughtful, with pairings you wouldn't expect and may never have come across. Very impressed, and looking forward to what their next theme will be.

    Lana T.

    We came on a Saturday night and surprised that it was full. They just put down your number and we waited over 2hrs to get in but it worth it because they give you 2hrs while you are inside. It was a dark ambiance but it had some couches on the side and we got seated by the bar. The drinks were really unique and good. We got the mercury, Jupiter, ceres and the moon. Their menu is rotating and this time based on the Adler Planetarium it's Ad Astra or To the stars! Our server and bartender were so nice and everyone is so attentive. They gave us recommendations based on what we liked and absolutely love it! This is such a great place for couples for even a girls night out.

    Mercury
    Vikalp D.

    The Meadowlark is a fantastic cocktail bar in Chicago that offers an intimate, low-light atmosphere perfect for a cozy night out. The constantly changing menu keeps things fresh, and the planet-themed offerings add a fun, creative twist to the experience. The cocktails are thoughtfully crafted, and the kimchi fries were especially standout--bold, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. A great spot for anyone looking for a unique, immersive cocktail experience with excellent bites to match. The service is great with ample paid street parking.

    Andre W.

    I am a new, big fan of Meadowlark! Some new friends put me onto this place earlier this summer while enjoying the patio at another establishment nearby. Been here a couple times, both on Mondays in which they have amazing mixmasters/bartenders working...Alison & Scott. They take good care of ya with some humor involved. When you enter there is a young lady sitting there waiting to open the big door for ya to enjoy this amazing place. Its dark like your typical speakeasy and the menu changes with a new theme every 6 months I was told. Current theme is Outer Space which is very cool. Some interesting drinks on the menu and Scott always says, dont let the spirit drive your selection, look at the ingredients. Very delicious cocktails named after planets such as Mars, Mercury, Venus, Saturn & Jupiter as well the Ganymede and Phobos & Demos were all very good! They offer small bites and snacks as well. I got the sticky toffee pudding and it was delicious as well. The bar itself is a nice size and there is seating for groups as well. Place is good for groups, dates and solo sips. Its located on a side street, but very easy to find.

    The decor
    Anna N.

    This place is SO cool. As an avid cocktail drinker, I was very impressed with the menu and service. Right now everything is spaced themed. Here's what we ordered: The Moon: If you like dessert drinks, I highly recommend. Two different kinds of gin, topped with a blueberry whey foam. My favorite on the table. Phobos & Deimos: Made with Siete Misterios Mezcal, this somewhat-bitter yet strikingly smooth cocktail was to die for. 10/10 presentation. Titan: Out of the three we ordered, this was the most spirit-forward. Made with Ron Zacapa 23 and a variety of rums (most of which I couldn't pronounce), this was a rich drink made for people who really enjoy the taste of alcohol. Our bartender was very sweet and you could tell he knew what he was making. The speakeasy vibes were super cool, and I could've stayed there forever. Thanks Meadowlark for a wonderful first experience -- I'll be back.

    Monisha P.

    Been on the hunt for a good cocktail bar since my favorite VH in Wicker Park closed down. I was recommended this place by a friend and this place did not disappoint. My husband and I were able to walk in and be seated immediately. The bar is very cosy with lounge chairs and perfect for a date night. They even have a great collection of books to read! They have a rotating menu, while we visited it was a Solar System themed menu. My husband got the Sun and I got the Moon. Both were absolutely delicious. We also got some bites - deviled eggs and fries, which did not disappoint. Will definitely be coming back!

    Heena J.

    This place is such a vibe with the cocktails and craftsmanship. The only thing is come early to grab seats/table. We came at 7pm on a Friday to get on the waitlist and they called us 2.5 hours later. We didn't know this but if you sit there and wait, they take you in faster versus going somewhere and waiting. We were not told this but overheard the receptionist say this to others.

    Neptune and Titan
    Claire C.

    Brought my space nerd boyfriend in specifically for their Ad Astra menu. Every part of the experience was exciting -- beginning with what felt like a pretty secretive entrance. The ambiance was so cute, and the interior felt like an elevated cozy living room. The details of the menu were so impressive, and I can totally see how they sell so many of the menus on their site. The drinks were delicious, strong, and honestly looking through the options was just as fun as drinking the drinks! Excited for the next concept!

    Henry O.

    Meadowlark is a pretty solid spot. The planetarium menu is such a cool touch, makes picking a drink feel like a little event. If they still got it going on, definitely go for the Saturn, it's really good. Great low key vibe energy in there, staff was super cool, the waitress especially. Watching the bartenders pour drinks was honestly half the fun, they got their whole thing going on behind the bar. Drinks hit the spot and looked pretty too. No complaints at all. Everything was great, would definitely come back!

    Menu as of 7/25

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    I hesitate to write a good review for this place because I love it so much! I want it to stay my little secret!

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    Ask the Community - The Meadowlark

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    The Bassment - Chicago - The Bathtub

    The Bassment - Chicago

    4.0(249 reviews)
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    I came here on a late Saturday night after attending another event; this served as the groups…read morenightcap before we ended the night. I'm so glad that I happened upon this place because it's one of the best late night live music spots that you can come across. I'm not sure if there was an established band that was on stage beforehand, but while I was there, it seemed like there were a lot of local acts and just super talented folks who were there jamming on stage. I loved every minute of it. There's a small bar there which I could imagine could get easily packed and overrun during a busy night but overall the drinks were fine. They do have seating areas, low chairs like the speakeasy vibe to enjoy the entertainment, but they also have a lot of space to dance and stand if you need to. I'll be back for sure, but you should also check it out.

    I turned to ChatGPT for recommendations on live music with good vibes near my hotel, and The…read moreBassment was at the top of the list. I decided to live a little and give it a try. I arrived a little after 9 and was greeted with no line. Since I didn't have a reservation, I paid a $10 cover. Walking downstairs, I was immediately impressed with the British décor, lots of IG-worthy spots. Because it was still early, I was able to head straight to the bar for a drink. The bartender mentioned the band would start at 9:30 and that things usually pick up around 10. He also let me know the couches were open seating until reserved groups arrived. The band was fantastic and had people dancing not long after they started. By 11, the place was standing room only. I tapped out around 1 and walked past a long line waiting to get in. I'm happy I trusted ChatGPT's suggestion. The Bassment delivered a fun night with great music, drinks, and energy. I'll definitely visit again.

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    The Office

    The Office

    4.4(323 reviews)
    3.4 miFulton Market, West Loop, Near West Side
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    After my birthday dinner, my friends and I went to The Office, the intimate speakeasy in Fulton…read moreMarket, and it was such a great experience! The atmosphere is beautiful, cozy, and intimate, which made it perfect for continuing my birthday celebration. Our bartender was incredibly attentive, kind, and welcoming, and the drinks were absolutely delicious. We made a reservation and paid a deposit in advance, which was applied toward our final bill. I really appreciated how seamless everything was. They even surprised me with a little birthday treat and a candle, which was such a thoughtful touch and made me feel celebrated. We had a wonderful time from beginning to end. Great drinks, great service, and an amazing vibe. I would absolutely recommend The Office for an after-dinner experience, a pre-dinner cocktail, date night, or a special celebration. I will definitely be back!

    The Office is a nice speakeasy! I had wanted to get a floral drink at the restaurant upstairs…read morecalled "the Aviary" but they were actually totally full, whereas the speakeasy wasn't. I sat at the bar downstairs and can confirm the place has a classic speakeasy feel -- the the basement of a place behind a locked door, very dark inside with mood lighting/glass cases and leather chairs/couches around small low tables. It's definitely a great date spot! I took off a star because it's pricey -- I got the "milk punch" on their classic cocktail menu which was $25 and is pretty small, but it's a nice drink and tasted very much like a milk punch drink I got at a speakeasy back home (in Austin, TX). The bartenders were super nice and provided excellent service, no complaints there! The bathrooms were also immaculate. Overall, this is a very nice speakeasy! I've been to many in my day and the ambiance is definitely on par with the best, but I gotta say some other unique ingredients (ideally more floral options!) would really take their menu up a notch! Nevertheless, I would def rec a visit to those visiting Chicago, and would go again even just for vibes :)

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    The Office - Twas a combination of a black manhattan & a vieux carré  Delicious

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    Bordel - Lemon drop at the bar

    Bordel

    3.6(287 reviews)
    1.9 miWest Town, Ukrainian Village
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    Came here for less than 10 minutes. Ordered a single drink that I took two sips of. I signed for…read more$20.91 for said ONE drink after their 18.88% surcharge that they allege (Bordel) keeps their business fully staffed, give healthcare benefits, and a livable wage. BUT somehow Chey S. Still decided to alter my receipt and give her a $10 tip. Which I did not give her. To which is also illegal. If this surcharge that they claim allows for them to take care of their employees - then why are they stealing from their customers? Anyone who comes here or has been here- take pictures of your receipts after you've signed and totaled them. I see in the reviews Chey S. Is a commonly denominator in bad reviews. Not sure why she's still employed here. Committing crimes and businesses letting it slide isn't a good look. Still waiting on my refund of $10 for that check 72 from Thursday the 23rd at 11:39pm that I have yet to receive! Idc to pay the $20 for one mediocre drink, but stealing is completely unacceptable. And it being excused even more so. Unfortunately I don't live in Chicago or I would've filed a police report, since this is FRAUD AND THEFT. Just beware of anyone who visits. I SIGNED to pay $20.91 not $30.91. There was a big fat ZERO tip for a reason. SO for check #72, I'll be waiting for that refund.

    My friend and I stumbled upon this place while looking for something to eat. While they did not…read morehave any food, this place is absolutely a great time. We had no idea what we were walking into but I am so glad we decided to check it out. They play a vast variety of music and have live entertainment. Our bartender was so sweet and made sure everyone was able to place their drink orders despite having a packed bar. I will definitely be back and hopefully get a table the next time around to avoid awkwardly standing in front of the DJ lol

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    Bordel - Bordel

    Bordel

    Bordel - Such a vibe.

    Such a vibe.

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    The Aviary - Infused drink

    The Aviary

    4.0(1.7k reviews)
    3.4 miFulton Market, West Loop, Near West Side
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    My wife and I were on our anniversary trip to Chicago and decided to enjoy the cocktail bar The…read moreAviary before our dinner at their sister concept - Next. I'll start out by saying that the time in the Aviary was the best cocktail experience we have ever had. Not saying the best cocktails (even though they were very good), but the best experience as far as interesting presentations and overall service combined with good cocktails that when you were drinking them did not feel gimmicky at all, but that everything had a purpose. My wife did the 3 drink progression and ordered The Partridge, The 3 Martini Lunch, and the non-alcoholic version of the Kyoto Plum. I got three cocktails, but because I opted for one on their barrel aged part of the menu, my progression was basically a la carte, not the 3 drink $75 price. We also opted for one small bite of food - The Truffle explosion. My drinks were the Cereal Killer, the In The Rocks, and the Blood and Sand. As far as favorites went Joy's Partridge was basically a Mint Julep with some warming spices, but the presentation was great. Almost every table got that drink so it must be well received. My favorite was the Blood and Sand that was just a really well balanced cocktail. I think that part of the menu does not get the elaborate presentations. We both also enjoyed sharing the 3 martini lunch which was a small version of a Vesper, a Gibson, and a dirty Martini. Two things about this drink, we like our martinis with gin rather than vodka (obviously a Vesper has both), but their rules are that there are no changes to their menus, so both the gibson and the dirty martini were vodka based. The Gibson and the Vesper were our favorites of the three as the dirty martini was too dirty. There was even more olive brine if we wanted it dirtier. Bottom line, top notch experience, great friendly service, and the atmosphere was awesome watching the room being served some of the drinks we had, and ones that we did not order. The Truffle Explosion was also a very good bite, basically a truffle/parmesan infused soup dumpling that exploded in your mouth and helped out with a little food in our belly while having all that alcohol at the same time. The only disappointing cocktail was the Kyoto Plum mocktail, interesting presentation, but tasted just like grape juice - no real character. A hostess from Next came and got us and took us to our table in Next for the 1987 Manhattan meal. Thanks for a great experience Aviary!!

    What an entertaining experience. The Aviary is like fine dining except almost entirely focused on…read morecocktails. We made a reservation for their three course cocktail experience for four of us which required a deposit of $75 per person. Only one of us ended up doing the experience (the rest of us were too full and already tipsy from dinner) but it was nonetheless, a very cool experience. Service was top notch. My partner has admired this place for a long time, as a bartender himself, and he has even learned a thing or two from their Bible-like cookbooks. So when the maitre d offered to allow him to step into the kitchen and help finish one of their cocktails, he was absolutely giddy. This was such a memorable and special touch for us during our visit to Chicago. I loved seeing how the kitchen worked together in a traditional kitchen line but only focusing on cocktails. It was an impressive thing to see. Many of the cocktails are presented in an incredibly theatrical way featuring interesting glassware, dry ice, and even a plastic bag filled with flavored air. I actually wasn't a big fan of the cocktail I ordered (it leaned too heavy into the BBQ flavor for my taste) but I enjoyed trying everyone else's cocktails at the table. I would definitely recommend checking out The Aviary if you are a cocktail enthusiast hoping to try something you can't get anywhere else. It truly is a fine dining experience with mixology at the forefront.

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    Drink your medicine

    The Meadowlark - speakeasies - Updated September 2026

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