As cocktail prices continue to rise, finding affordable mixed drinks in Chicago can be a challenge. However, several bars and restaurants in the city still offer reasonably priced cocktails without compromising on quality. From a $7 margarita to a $10 negroni, these venues have drinks within budget on their all-day menus. This list includes neighborhood dives, historic taverns, and even one of North America’s top cocktail bars.
240 Lounge
240 Lounge in Albany Park is a sports bar offering drinks at under $10. Expect friendly bartenders and cost-effective cocktails like whiskey sour, Crown Royal peach sunrise, and seasonal mojitos priced between $7.50 and $8. Micheladas cost $10 and the Brazilian old-fashioned is available for $9.
Address: 3948 W. Lawrence Ave., 773-267-0474, facebook.com/240lounge
Belmont Tavern
In Avondale, Belmont Tavern provides an eclectic mix of cocktails priced at $12 each. With a cozy, neighborhood atmosphere, the drink menu covers 26 different cocktails organized by spirit. Choices range from classic options to unique house originals like Freshly Mowed Lawn and Unclarified Milk Punch.
Address: 3405 W. Belmont Ave., belmonttavernchicago.com
Cove Lounge
Hyde Park’s Cove Lounge is a dive bar that combines lively surroundings with affordable drinks. Decorated with a mural featuring Barack Obama and the Chicago skyline, cocktails include classics like old-fashioned and negroni for $10, and specialty “Cove-tails” priced at $12.
Address: 1750 E. 55th St., 773-684-1013, instagram.com/covelounge_hp
Esmeralda’s Lounge
This Humboldt Park gem offers Caribbean-inspired flavors with tiki-style cocktails in a warm setting. Frozen cocktails are $8, while classics like margaritas and mojitos are $10. More spirit-forward drinks like caipirinhas top out at $12.
Address: 2539 W. Division St., 312-479-7121, esmeraldaschicago.com
Gideon Welles
Located in Lincoln Square, Gideon Welles serves family-friendly cocktails at $10 to $13. Its menu includes Moscow, Kentucky, London, and Irish mules, priced at $10.
Address: 4500 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-907-2226, gideonchicago.com
Gus’ Sip & Dip
Ranked No. 27 on North America’s 50 Best Bars list, Gus’ Sip & Dip maintains low pricing for River North. The menu features 30 classic and contemporary cocktails for $12, utilizing a variety of spirits.
Address: 51 W. Hubbard St., 312-736-0163, gussipanddip.com
Mac’s Wood Grilled
Mac’s Wood Grilled, previously Schlitz Brewery Tied House, keeps prices accessible with $5 bloody marys and $6 mules and lemonades. It’s a casual spot for enjoying burgers and sandwiches.
Address: 1801 W. Division St., 773-782-4400, macswoodgrilled.com
Taquería Primo Chuki’s Uptown
This Mexican spot specializes in cocktails under $10. Sangrias cost $7.99 while mezcalitas and flavored margaritas start at $8.99.
Address: 1708 W. Lawrence Ave., 872-208-7075, taqueriaprimochukisuptown.com
The Radicle
The Radicle in Logan Square offers a playful cocktail menu with drinks priced between $10 and $12. Notable options include Indecent Locals and Birdwatching in Milan.
Address: 2523 N. Milwaukee Ave., 312-488-4069, radiclechicago.com
Roost Chicken & Biscuits
With cocktails at $7, Roost Chicken & Biscuits provides affordability in Roscoe Village. Options include peach tea and a vodka-based John Daly. Upgrade to $10 boozy shakes for a sweet treat.
Address: 2011 W. Roscoe St., 312-261-5564, roostisgood.com
Wil’s Martini Lounge
Wil’s Martini Lounge in Andersonville caters to martini enthusiasts. While the full-size martinis cost $16 to $18, six-ounce servings and cocktails fall between $11 and $13.
Address: 1478 W. Catalpa Ave., instagram.com/wilsmartinilounge
Eva Remijan-Toba is a freelance writer.