Looking for the best new bars in Chicago? One of these new spots might be just what you're seeking. Here are the newest places to check out the next time you're in search of a new watering hole near you.
The River Kitchen and Bar
2909 N. Sheffield Ave., Lakeview
The River Kitchen and Bar is a sports bar serving New American fare. Check out menu options like braised pork meatballs, housemade mozzarella sticks, chicken wings and avocado toast.
Libations include signature cocktails, red and white wines and beer. Look for the vodka-centric #2 with lime and lemon; the boozy bourbon #3 with bitters and orange; or the tequila-based #6 with grapefruit. The full menu can be seen here.
The River Kitchen and Bar has one Yelp review, which gives it five stars.
Yelper Danny H., who reviewed it on June 27, wrote, "Great food. Quality cocktails. Incredible service and staff. The atmosphere is so much different from the old Mad River but still has those same awesome party vibes."
The River Kitchen and Bar is open from 5 p.m.–2 a.m. on weekdays, 11–3 a.m. on Saturday, and 11–2 a.m. on Sunday.
Maillard Tavern
494 N. Milwaukee Ave., River West
Maillard Tavern is a bar and traditional American spot. Created by Tony Priolo and Ciro Longobardo of Piccolo Sogno and Nonnina, this offering pairs bar grub with libations.
Look for menu options like The Maillard Burger with bacon and onion jam; the Sloppy Giuseppe with wild boar ragu and crispy onions; and classic clam chowder soup. Thirsty? Pair your fare with a draft or bottled brew, glass of wine or signature cocktail, like the Good Vibes, complete with gin, cucumber, lime and Kombu syrup. The full menu can be seen here.
Maillard Tavern has received positive feedback from diners with a current Yelp rating of four stars out of 55 reviews.
Yelper Dori S., who visited on June 20, wrote, "As I ate at Maillard Tavern I asked a profound question of the universe, 'Wow! Really? Could this be true? Can a simple meal of a burger and fries be elevated to this level?' Evidently it can."
Yelper Olivia M. wrote, "A great local burger bar! It's no Au Cheval but if you don't want to wait for two hours to eat dinner you can walk down the street to Maillard Tavern and grab yourself a pretty decent burger."
Maillard Tavern is open from 11 a.m.–11 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday and 11–1 a.m. on Thursday-Saturday.
Vapiano
222 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 101, West Loop
Vapiano is a wine bar and restaurant that's serving up traditional Italian fare with a curated wine list. With locations around the world, this is the European chain's third outpost in Chicago.
Look for pasta dishes like the classic pomodoro, Caprese (mini meatballs with cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and basil) and the Thai Italy (salmon, mango ginger and curry sauce). Pizza menu options are in abundance. Grab a bottle or glass of white or red vino to pair with your meal. The full menu can be seen here.
With a three-star Yelp rating out of 13 reviews on Yelp, Vapiano is still finding its way, but it's early days.
Yelper Damian S., who visited Vapiano on June 6, wrote, "We ordered drinks first and were pleased with the strawberry basil spritzers and the margarita was extremely well made. The bar is highly recommended."
Kristen K. noted, "The food is good, I'll start with that. Vibe and concept is cool. I have been here twice now and both times they were slow and messed up my order (added cheese to a vegan pasta)."
Vapiano – Chicago Riverside is open from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. on weekdays and noon–8 p.m. on weekends.
Crawford's Food and Spirits
3938 W. School St., Avondale
Crawford's Food and Spirits is a neighborhood pub whose name is a nod to an early 20th century landowner named Peter Crawford, according to the business' website.
Draught beer, spirits, wine and cocktails are all on offer. Look for the house special Crawford Fizz with gin, lemon and rosemary; the rum-based Old Cuban with lime and mint; and the Tequila Daisy with lemon, agave and raspberry. The full drink menu can be seen here.
Expect menu options like beef and barley soup or jumbo wings to start; a signature Crawford Burger or pot roast sandwich for lunch; and entrees like the Surf n' Turf burrito or grilled chicken pesto panini.
Crawford's Food and Spirits is off to a strong start with a current Yelp rating of 4.5 stars out of 33 reviews.
Yelper Kymberly J. wrote, "I am really impressed with Crawford's. I came in on a Saturday at 1 p.m. with a group of about 15 people. The staff went into action immediately moving tables around, getting pitchers of water and and menus. We got our drinks and food right away. Water refills kept coming and they even gave us separate checks without us asking!"
Yelper Amoli P. wrote, "Great bar/restaurant addition in the Avondale area right off of Milwaukee Avenue. We're always looking for a relaxed lunch spot on work from home days, and Crawford's was a great place to duck in."
Crawford's Food and Spirits is open from 11–2 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday and 11–3 a.m. on Saturday.
