“Now that fall officially begins tomorrow, this is a great time to explore some of the best bars and taverns in the city. My favorite spots include:
“Twin Anchors: Located at 1655 N. Sedgwick, since 1932, it is known for its great burgers and ribs. A favorite spot of Frank Sinatra’s, this is great place to go on a cold Chicago night.
“Up the street a block at 1756 N. Sedgwick, is Marge’s Still, which is one of the oldest continually running pubs in Chicago having opened in 1885. After many years, I went back for lunch and enjoyed the food and atmosphere.
“Located in Old Town, near Division at 1202 N. Wells, is Glunz Tavern, next to the House of Glunz, one of Chicago’s oldest wine merchants. Originally opened in 1888 by Louis Glunz, the popular neighborhood gathering spot sat vacant for more than 90 years following its closure just prior to Prohibition. It was reopened in 2012 by his family members. It is known for its selection of beer, wine and European influenced cuisine from the owner’s French, German, Alsatian and Austrian heritage. It has a casual, old-world atmosphere. The Old-World Tasting Room, behind the store, is a treasure trove of hand-carved furniture and drinkware from the neighborhood’s German past. Oktoberfest is a great time to go.
“Located at 678 N. Orleans, is the famed Green Door Tavern that has been there since 1921. It is known for its burgers, salads and sandwiches. Thanks to a Prohibition Walking Tour I found The Drifter. It is in the basement of the Green Door Tavern and was the original speakeasy space from the 1920s. Today it is a dark, cozy space where you can have a great cocktail and see a fun show. The performers can be singers, Burlesque dancers, magicians or other acts. They open at 5pm and don’t take reservations, so go early to ensure you get a table. They are open Wednesday through Saturday. I highly recommend it. It was one of the most fun experiences I have been to in Chicago. 676-8 N. Orleans.
“Old Town Ale House at 219 W. North Ave.: This Classic Chicago neighborhood bar from 1958 is the perfect spot for a Manhattan or other cocktail. The music on the juke box is great. Anthony Bourdain was a big fan and featured it on his television show Parts Unknown in 2016.
“Located in the Loop is the popular Miller’s Pub at 134 S. Wabash. It has been a Chicago institution since 1935. I went back after many years and enjoyed a great turkey Reuben for lunch before a matinee of the Joffrey Ballet. I really enjoyed the traditional atmosphere, the excellent service and the great food. The rooms are decorated with autographed photos from many of the celebrities from Frank Sinatra to Marilyn Monroe, who have dined there over the years.
A block south of Miller’s Pub is the Exchequer Restaurant & Pub at 226 S. Wabash. This is an historic bar and restaurant that opened in 1969. Prior to them taking over, it was The 226 Club in the Roaring 20s and frequented by Al Capone, the Wonder Bar and Brown’s. I loved the historic articles and pictures on the walls featuring people like Al Capone and Frank Sinatra. I enjoyed talking to the owner’s daughter who filled me in on the history. (Glaze, Classic Chicago Magazine, 9/20/25)
Read the full story at Classic Chicago Magazine
- CHICAGO LEGACY BUSINESSES: My Favorite Bars and Taverns in Chicago, Bob Glaze, Classic Chicago Magazine, 9/20/25
- Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern, A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1932, 1655 N. Sedgwick, Chicago
- Marge’s Still, A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1885, 1756 N. Sedgwick, Chicago
- Glunz Tavern, A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1888 and reestablished in 2012, 1202 N. Wells, Chicago
- Green Door Tavern / The Drifter, A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1921, 676 N. Orleans, Chicago
- Old Town Ale House, A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1958, 219 W. North Ave, Chicago
- Miller’s Pub, A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1935, 134 S. Wabash, Chicago
- Exchequer Restaurant & Pub , A Chicago Legacy Business established in 1969, 226 S. Wabash, Chicago