Discover the vibrant Irish pub scene in Chicago with our guide to the top establishments that seamlessly blend traditional charm with modern innovations. From classic Irish brews to inventive dishes, these pubs offer a unique experience in the heart of the city.
Emerald Loop
Located in a landmarked building in the Loop steps away from the Chicago River, Emerald Loop features a large selection of Irish and local brews on tap and–perfect during the winter–spiked hot chocolate, Jameson Irish coffee and hot toddies. The menu consists of traditional Irish and American pub fare as well as innovations like baked naan flatbreads, chicken shawarma salad and elote mac and cheese.
Timothy O’Toole’s Pub
All the way down a staircase in a basement is Timothy O’Toole’s, which has been Streeterville’s go-to Irish pub since 1992. Its eight flavors of wings, large selection of burgers and other entrees can be washed down with more than 60 beers while you catch the big game on one of the 72 TVs. Timothy O’Toole’s also has a Wednesday night comedy showcase.
The Embassy Public House
The Irish flags flying outside The Embassy might make you forget that you’re in Little Italy. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with Guinness on draft, fish & chips and curry fries. Since opening in 2021, The Embassy has become a haven on the Near West Side for lovers of international sports, with 20 TVs showing soccer, rugby and Formula 1, as well as the local teams.
Corcoran’s
Nestled just across the street from Second City, Corcoran’s offers an ideal setting to savor delicious food, craft beer, and cocktails until 2 am. With its prime location, it’s the perfect spot for a vibrant and entertaining night out in the heart of the city.
Lizzie McNeill’s
Lizzie McNeill’s stands out as your friendly neighborhood Irish bar nestled along the picturesque Chicago River, offering beautiful views, a spacious patio, an extensive selection of Irish whiskey, and delicious food.
The Kerryman
Named after County Kerry, where its three owners were born, The Kerryman serves up many Irish favorites, including shepherd’s pie, curry chips and a full Irish breakfast. The River North building that houses the Kerryman was once known as the McGovern Saloon, where Dean O’Banion worked as a singing waiter before founding the North Side Gang, the mostly Irish mob whose main rival was Al Capone’s Chicago Outfit.
Mrs. Murphy and Sons Irish Bistro
As the name suggests, the focus at Mrs. Murphy and Sons is on Irish comfort dishes, like beef and Guinness stew or its weekend roast. The North Center favorite distinguishes itself from other “Chi-rish” pubs with more than 70 Irish whiskeys and a grocery containing hard-to-find Irish and British goods. Mrs. Murphy’s also has live music four days a week, plus trivia and storytelling nights.
O’Shaughnessy’s Public House
Located in Ravenswood, O’Shaughnessy’s has something for everybody–even children–in a friendly environment. The food menu has all of the Irish pub dishes and innovations like corned beef and cabbage egg rolls or a complete Irish breakfast on a sandwich, while the beer selection has everything from local craft brews to imports, with some that rotate seasonally.
Cork & Kerry at the Park
The South Side neighborhood of Bridgeport is known for its Irish pride, and it’s celebrated every night at Cork & Kerry. The White Sox-friendly tavern serves pub favorites and also local standards like Italian beef sandwiches and the Chicago-style hotdog. A second location that does not serve food can be found in Beverly.
Lady Gregory’s
Andersonville’s beloved Irish pub has more than 300 Irish, American and Scotch whiskeys and 100 beers, and its hearty dishes are made with farm-to-table, sustainable ingredients. The pub is named for the writer who co-founded the Irish Literary and Abbey Theatres with William Butler Yeats and Edward Martyn.
