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    Three Dots and A Dash

    4.1 (4.2k reviews)
    Closed 4:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)
    Updated 2 months ago

    Three Dots and A Dash Photos

    THREE DOTS AND A DASH ATMOSPHERE

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    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Three Dots and A Dash

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    Tracy A.

    We came here as a part of 4 on a Friday night. It was PACKED. We thankfully had reservations which to me is a must, but they will accommodate you at the bar without them. The drinks were so good! They were good size and simply delicious. Well balanced. Not too sweet and not artificially sweet. It's clear those making them knew how to make real cocktails. The ambiance is true tiki. It is large but there were people surrounding our table because it was close to the bar. If you make a reservation and pay a deposit, make sure to make your server aware. The quickly made adjustments for us, but this was an issue in ensuring we got our credit. I would recommend getting a reservation in their smaller internal bar for a more intimate experience and more commonly crafted drinks. I would definitely come back but likely on a weeknight or earlier in the day.

    Bryn S.

    1 word. Phenomenal. Wow. I loved this place. Their fries are fantastic. They had a nice seasoning to them. The drink was great. Next time I need to try the sharable drinks.

    Steak skewers with chimichurri
    Evora H.

    The absolute best loaded fries I've ever had in my life. The layers of flavor were so incredible that I still can't stop talking about them. I have no idea what they did, but it was next-level delicious. The steak skewers were pure perfection--tender, buttery, and practically melted in your mouth. Paired with a chimichurri sauce that complemented every bite, they were unforgettable. The cocktails were equally impressive. I had a passionfruit and rum creation that was dangerously good and far too easy to drink. Despite not having reservations, the hostess found us a cozy booth after only about a 10-minute wait. Entering through the alley added a fun sense of mystery and charm. House music drifted through the space, creating an energetic atmosphere. It's definitely lively--sometimes loud enough that conversations require a raised voice--but the vibrant vibe, incredible food, and outstanding drinks make it more than worth it.

    Leeza S.

    We had a few drinks, sweet potato fries and and popcorn chicken. Overall, the service was great and I loved the unique drink selection. This is definitely a fun place to go for girls night!

    1944 MAI TAI
    Ben K.

    My boyfriend wanted a speakeasy vibe to finish the night out in Chicago, so we headed on over to Three Dots and a Dash! The space is accessible via a "sort of" hidden alley entrance! Once you enter, you are quickly transported to the vibey, island oasis that is promised. There weren't any reservations or tables available, but we stopped into the bar and got lucky with a pair of seats. Our bartender was very social and friendly, even while constantly making drinks for the crowded bar area! We ordered a Mai Tai and a Strawberry Junglebird. Both we are excellent drinks, spirit-forward, and partnered well with theme of the space. Our only qualm was that the Junglebird didn't come dressed up at all...as almost all the drinks on the menu come in specific, themed glassware that adds to ambiance and effect of the experience...but that drink just came in a boring glass cup! Still tasted great, though! We will definitely be back to try more of the elaborate concoctions on this menu!

    Jenna B.

    While visiting Chicago some friends and I were looking for a lounge and saw this spot. Unfortunately I was not impressed, the ambiance is so dark that you can not even read the menu. Food was not good and drinks were just ok. Nothing exciting about this spot. Customer service was mediocre just like their food and drinks.

    Octopus shot
    Macy C.

    Very cool atmosphere. A little hard to find- made it more fun though in my opinion. Very nice bartenders. Very crowded even on a weeknight- we did not have reservations and got very lucky to grab 2 spots at the bar. Very neatly presented drinks. Flavor was ok but would go again for the experience

    Loaded Luau Cheese Fries
    Randa U.

    Came through on a weeknight for some quick apps and drinks. This is definitely a tiki bar vibe, dark, fun, and can be easy to forget the weather outside (especially if it's cold). It's a hidden speakeasy in an alley, giving the underground vibes. All drinks are tiki drink types. Coconut or fruity elixirs riddle the menu. You can get wine, champaign, or other cocktails if you ask. They aren't advertised though. I ordered the Aloha Felicia with Rum, coconut, pineapple, and lime. It was absolutely tropical and came in this gorgeous metal tiki cup. It was a short cup but wide, so it was a nice amount of drink. The menu also tells you how strong they are, as well. They don't really offer dinners, rather many types of appetizers. We ordered the loaded fries and the crab Rangoon dip. The loaded fries had a Teriyaki, Asian flavor and was quite filling and served beautifully. The crab Rangoon dip was also addictive. The crispy won tons were not greasy and it had another Asian style sauce to accompany the dip, that was a nice compliment to the flavor. This is a great place to meet up with friends for a cool tiki drink and apps.

    Mystic Lamp and Aloha Felicia
    Brenda S.

    Three Dots and a Dash was an amazing experience. The whole tiki vibe was great, dim lighting, tropical decor, and a lively crowd that sets the tone. Service was friendly and efficient, especially considering how busy it gets. Drinks were so delicious and beautifully presented. The menu also has levels of how strong a drink might be. I ordered the Mystic Lamp, Aloha Felicia, and the Coconut Sunset Sundae. They were all delicious!

    Shotstapus
    Whitney V.

    Amazing tiki bar in Chicago that's off the main streets and needs a reservation but the hit of the weekend. The drinks were amazing both in visuals and in taste. The bar allows for groups as well as pairs at the bar. Three Dots and A Dash is all theme whether it be the menu, drinks, and apps. We had so much fun it was an amazing experience. The staff was very nice and attentive. They do have a time allowance, but they were incredibly nice to us about our time in the bar.

    Mike P.

    When visiting Chicago this is one of the top places I had wanted to try. I'd heard about it for multiple sources on multiple occasions and knew it was one of my top priorities to visit while there. Of the first challenge of this place is finding it. I'm glad I read some reviews to talked about going down the alley and looking for lights because the GPS took me to the front of the building and I had no clue where the place was. After rounding the corner, I saw some lights and proceeded to walk down the alley and found three dots and a dash. When you go inside you, I was greater by a bouncer and then walk down the stairs to the bar. I was quickly greeted by the host that I just told them that I wanted to sit as far? So I can go in and find myself to see here when I had gotten there if the place was a little bit more packed but cleared out after a short while and I sat down and ordered some food and a drink. The bartender who helped me was super personable that I made some recommendations and talked about a few different drinks they had. I want you to make sure eyes picked wisely. I ended up going with their namesake drink three dots and a dash which I thought was really good. And I ordered the chicken bites as an appetizer that came with three sauces That I also enjoyed. I got in on the last night of the prior seasonal menu so I got to try one of the drinks before they came off and had the sweater weather as well. The drink was pretty good and I'm really glad it was recommended. Ed, they also have a merchroom with a bunch of different tiki glasses available. I picked up one of their newer glasses to take home which came on a little box in a nice little gift bag. All in all, I had a great experience here and I would definitely come back if I was in Chicago. If you're into tiki drinks, this is a must stop. But if you just enjoy a good cocktail and want to get away a little bit, this could be a great place to unwind.

    Cassandra D.

    Easily one of the most unique and fun spots we visited during our Christmas trip to Chicago. Whether you think of it as a former hidden speakeasy or a full-on hotspot now, it's a must-visit either way. The drinks were incredible... not just delicious, but clearly very thoughtfully crafted, right down to the custom Three Dots & a Dash glassware. And the food? Shockingly good. I wasn't expecting much food-wise given the speakeasy/bar vibe, but everything we tried was absolutely delicious. On top of that, the staff was so friendly and welcoming, offering great recommendations based on what we liked. Truly top-notch all around. We'll be back every single time we're in Chicago.

    The complimentary birthday Hot Buttered Rum shots!
    Scott V.

    Although it's been open for more than a dozen years, I visited the speakeasy, Tiki-themed Three Dots and a Dash for the first time last night to celebrate my husband's birthday--and what a treat it was. While the bar has a Clark Street address, true to speakeasy fashion you actually enter through the alley. A long flight of stairs, with walls covered in exotic plant material to set the Tiki mood, leads down to the host area and bar. The main bar is dark and atmospheric, with a lush tropical theme. Booths line three walls, high-top tables fill the center of the room, and a long bar backed by an impressive display of liquor bottles anchors the space. Since we visited in December, the room was decorated with festive silver wreaths, and there was a special menu of holiday cocktails. I ordered the Eggnog Grasshopper, while my husband chose the 1944 Mai Tai. Both drinks were refreshing and delicious, though on the small side. We also shared a Gingerbread Painkiller and an order of Prime Skirt Steak Skewers. The skewers were tender, moist, and full of flavor--absolutely delicious. Because it was my husband's birthday, our pleasant waitress surprised us with complimentary shots of Hot Buttered Rum, served on a charming platter complete with treasure coins and a skull mug bubbling with dry-ice smoke--a very nice touch. The Hot Buttered Rum shots were outstanding and much appreciated. I also loved that Three Dots and a Dash is a Lettuce Entertain You property, allowing me to both use and earn bonus points. If you're heading out for a night on the town and want to do something a little special, Three Dots and a Dash is an excellent choice--and a great place to linger for a while.

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    Page 1 of 105

    Three Dots and A Dash Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Three Dots and A Dash

    Do they have any mocktails on the menu?

    Yes, the menu has the HONEYCRISP NOMBIE and the SUNDAY SCARIES appear to be non-alcoholic.

    Can we bring our own personal Tiki mugs inside?

    You may take an empty mug in but they will not serve their drink in your mug.

    Could you bring a kid here?

    No. Everyone is carded at the door. It's not a kid-friendly environment; it's a bar.

    Do they accept apple pay?

    I'm very sure if you contact the restaurant ahead of time they can certainly provide you with that information.

    Could you bring a kid with you during the day on the patio?

    No, it's a bar. The age limit is 21 and over.

    Hi, i made a reservation but i want to reschedule, is it possible to do so?

    Yes. They use Open Table. Just reschedule

    Do they have gluten free food options?

    I'm on a Keto diet and I had no problem finding plenty of good food options. The drinks however, well that's a different story!

    Is this 21+?

    Yes

    What type of music is played?

    Very loud, thumping, rhythmic sounds with a vaguely Caribbean flavor. The only song I recognized was by Prince.

    Do they have non alcoholic drinks?

    Hey Tiffany, We sure do! We have one on our menu right now called the Con Artist. But we can… Read more

    Do I have to make reservations if I just want to drink?

    Yes.

    Is the reservation deposit used towards your tab?

    Yes!

    Do they still have the full menu?

    Hey Angie, our patio menu has 7 cocktails on it and the inside menu has 10 cocktails on it. The patio is open 7 days a week and we are open inside Thursday - Sunday. Head to our website threedotschicago.com for more details on our menus and hours… Read more

    Do they scan Ids here?

    No. They dont

    What kind of music is played?

    It was chill tiki music when we were there. Hawaiian tropical vibe.

    Where can I find a hour hour menu?

    Brooke, We are open… Read more

    Should you make reservations if all you want are drinks?

    Yes. Otherwise you have to wait forever at the bar and then won't have anywhere to sit.

    Do i have to make a reservation if I'm going for cocktails?

    Nope! You can always sit at the bar. Sometimes it's easier to make a reservation to be safe, but not needed.

    Do they sell souvenir tiki mugs with the "three dots and a dash" inscriptions?

    Yes they do! They have them in stock but beware they can be a bit pricey.

    Do you guys have happy hour?

    Yes they have happy hour

    View All 46 Questions

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    We absolutely loved trying this place. It felt incredibly exclusive, almost like a hidden gem…read moretucked away from everything else. From the moment we walked in to the moment we left, the service was exceptional, attentive, welcoming, and seamless. The drinks were amazing, and every dish we had was truly exquisite. Calling it Michelin-star quality almost feels like an understatement. Everything was crafted with such care and precision. To top it all off, we even got to see the chef, who took a moment to say hello.. it made the experience feel even more special and personal. We'll definitely be back.

    Stopped in on a Friday night and so happy we did! This place is hidden in the back through Frontera…read moregrill, down some stairs, but what a great find. We were lucky to come for happy hour and enjoyed every food option on the menu short list (yum croquettes, chicken and the chefs special taco!) as well as a strawberry margarita and Mezcal old fashioned. Flavors were fantastic and the margarita was not too sweet. Finished off with pulpo (what a fun, tender yet crunchy take!), bone marrow (so decadent and relatively large portion with crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside bread), and ceviche (I think it had sesame oil? What a delight). Not a surprise, since I've always loved chef Rick Bayless, and chef Jackie is great as well. Came with two kiddos and they were very accommodating with kids menu and coloring options.

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    Au Cheval

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    After what felt like 5 years to try this place, I FINALLY got to try the famous burger here! Spark…read morenotes: this place is definitely worth the wait! My friend and I dedicated a day where we would just put our name down and however long it took we would wait haha. We drove into the city which took and hour and we put our name down and waited an hour before we were called. The weather was great so we just walked around the west loop area. We started with a half size of the green salad and a half size of the roasted bone marrow. The house salad is super refreshing. A lot of vinegar in the dressing which I personally really like. Also tasted some fennel which was an interesting flavor. The roasted bone marrow is the winner of the night. I would come back to Au Cheval for this alone. It was paired with a thick slice of Texas toast and a beef cheek marmalade and it is seriously the PERFECT balance of flavors. Fatty. Sweet. Buttery. Literally insane and this is a must order! Then came the famous burger. My friend and I each ordered a single cheeseburger with the egg and bacon added. Something to note is that the single cheeseburger actually has 2 patties and the double cheeseburger has 3 patties (3/4lbs of beef). The presentation itself is beautiful and makes you just not want to eat it haha. The burger itself is so decadent and hefty with the burger patties, cheese, egg and bacon. I'll be honest, I needed some more pickles or just something to cut all the fattiness of the burger. There were pickles in the burger and it is served with a huge pickle spear. But I still was itching for some more bitterness/acid to balance the flavors. It was so decadent, I couldn't finish it all. All in all, I would definitely come back and order the burger again and would recommend it to anyone! We ordered a side of fries which came with their garlic aioli. The fries were cooked to perfection. Super crunchy on the outside and nice and soft on the inside and piping hot! The garlic aioli is perfect and have no notes for it. We also were treated to a vanilla scoop with chocolate sauce which was the perfect cap to our meal! Our waitress was so friendly and my friend and I loved her! She was so sweet and genuine. Hog Salt restaurants never fail with their service!

    Au Cheval is likely the most coveted restaurant destination for out-of-towners…read more "Best Burger" "it's so delicious with the egg" "I'm glad you're ending your trip with Au Cheval". I'd like to throw in my own quote into the gauntlet: "it's ok". It sounds harsh but Our burger patty was noticeably dry. The bread... was also dry. The egg and bacon add-ons were good but as a whole, the burger was missing the core aspect. The bread being dry I can justify by knowing that Au Cheval makes it a point to make everything gluten-free (or so someone told me). I think that's cool but not necessarily what I came looking for. I actually noticed prior to our trip from photos that the buns looked noticeably arid but I gave them no heed because of all of the praise. And I can give them the benefit of the doubt that we were there on a Sunday night, so potentially not the most quality inventory (although I personally don't think that's a great excuse). The service and the ambiance were on point! If you're wondering if there's a required attire (no shorts or flip flops) I wouldn't fret, the atmosphere is a lot more casual despite self-describing as an "intimate" setting. It's definitely more intimate than a normal burger restaurant, with dim lighting and isolated booths but what you're wearing isn't going to dictate how other guests and staff feel. I would cover up anyways just cause there was ac running. I told my friend who moved from Nyc to Chicago and he said he felt the same. And one of our couple friends were surprised to hear the patty being dry, so... off day?

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    The cooks were very attentive!
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    Wings (very sticky so they come with hot towels)
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