Cheers to good wine, cheers to life! Our editor and concierges weigh in on their favorite wine bars in the city.
CHICAGO WINERY
After having launched successful locations in New York and DC, Chicago Winery opened its brand new hot spot in Chicago’s River North neighborhood last fall. Chicago Winery is proud to differentiate itself by focusing on chef-driven cuisine, the onsite winemaking process, and serving neighbors with genuine Midwest hospitality. Enjoy some great food and wine at LIVA, a community-inspired restaurant for locals and visitors alike, with a menu curated by Midwest native Chef Andrew Graves. The goal is pretty simple: a cuisine and beverage experience that pairs with all of life’s moments.
OUTSIDE VOICES
Flor Sigaran (Senior Experience Concierge, 110 N Wacker):
“Outside Voices is a funky little wine bar with interesting woodwork and artwork on the walls. They have a great hidden outdoor patio. Try the Fossil and Fawn Willamette Valley Pinot Gris.”
ESQUIRE BY COOPER’S HAWK
Esquire by Cooper’s Hawk’s 50-foot glass-enclosed wine tower is home to one of the best wine collections in Chicago and its Tasting Room offers some of the city’s most exquisite wine tastings. Take a cellar tour with the sommeliers and peek behind the curtains!
POMPETTE
First meeting in the kitchens at acclaimed Chicago restaurants Wood and Salero, an impressive team of three industry dynamos introduced Pompette this fall. The community-forward gathering spot focuses on a curated Old World wine list, low ABV sippers, and an easygoing menu of wine-friendly food and shareable plates.
CITY WINERY
This venue has it all: live music, comedy, good food, and a great wine list. Complete your visit to the trendy West Loop with a wine tasting dinner or enjoy a late night sip after a Bulls or Hawks game at the United Center.
SOIF
Hidden below Roman-style eatery Testaccio in Logan Square, Soif Wine Lounge is a French speakeasy-inspired wine bar. At Soif (French for ‘thirst’) you will find an extensive French wine list with a broad selection of rare and hard-to-find classic varietals, natural wine offerings, pétillant naturals, orange wines, and grower Champagnes.
WEBSTER’S WINE BAR
Open since 1994, Webster’s must be the OG of Chicago’s wine bar scene. Focus is on small, family-owned producers who make great wines and care for the environment. Bonus: the kitchen is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
