Keep Cozy by Chicago's Best Fireside Bars
Chicago winters can be a brutal time, and such frigid days necessitate the nourishing solace of fireside dining and drinking. Embrace the hearty vibes and fireside delights at one of these cozy Chicago spots.
Broken Shaker: At the risk of spoiling the bar’s coziest little secret, a favorite place to sit and sip in the lobby of the Freehand Hotel are the fireside nooks tucked away on either side of the bar entrance. It's a quiet little area alongside a small set of stairs in the back of the lobby, and most people don't seem to know it's there. Along with a fireplace, the little corner also has comfy chairs, a small table, and knick knacks indicative of a Latin American cafe. In general, the whole lobby space between Cafe Integral and Broken Shaker is a dark, comfortable cottage-like motif perfect for relaxing with coffee or cocktails.
Hopleaf: When it comes to toasty bar comforts, it doesn't get any better than Hopleaf. Chicago's preeminent Belgian beer bar is an absolute winter essential. Because beer-steamed mussels, crispy aioli-dipped frites, and a fireplace situated in a dining room that looks like a ski lodge is the ideal definition of winter respite.
Scofflaw: A gin-centric bar may not be the first place that comes to mind when craving cozy bars, but Scofflaw merits a visit this season thanks largely to its second room located around the corner from the main bar. Here you'll find a parlor reminiscent of an Alice in Wonderland tea party, complete with lavish, snug couches, chairs, and a roaring fireplace. It's the perfect setting in which to enjoy hot buttered rum, exceptional bar food, and enough gin to make you forget about the temperature outside.
Drumbar: Another stellar rooftop cocktail bar is this Streeterville stunner. The best part about this space is its ambience reminiscent of a Clue-like mansion, complete with an indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pits. Along with some of the most intricate and special craft cocktails in town, it makes for a wholly immersive drinking impressive to help you endure the winter months.
Sable Kitchen & Bar: The fireplace at Sable Kitchen & Bar is electric, sure, but it's just as comforting as the real deal. Plus it's nice to have zero chance of accidentally burning alive. The makeshift fireplace provides a comforting backdrop for Sable's bites and sips. Get cozy with one of Sable's impeccable hot cocktails, and pair it with some steak tartare, some lobster rangoon, and some falafel sliders.