The 7 Best Wine Bars in Chicago

Chicago is a city that prides itself on its culinary diversity, and when it comes to discovering the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of fine wine, the options are as varied as they are enticing. In this guide, we delve into the 7 best wine bars in Chicago, each offering a unique ambiance and an impressive selection of wines to satisfy any palate.

Choosing the right wine bar involves more than just selecting a location; it’s about finding a place that aligns with your preferences and offers an exceptional experience. Here are some services and aspects to consider:

Wine Selection: A diverse range of wines, including local and international varieties.
Food Pairings: Gourmet dishes and small plates that complement the wine offerings.
Atmosphere: Cozy and inviting ambiance with comfortable seating and decor.
Price Range: Options to suit different budgets, from affordable glasses to premium bottles.
Knowledgeable Staff: Well-informed sommeliers and staff to guide your wine choices.
Events: Wine tastings, themed nights, and educational sessions.
Location: Accessibility and proximity to other attractions or neighborhoods.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing evening, the best wine bars in Chicago offer something for everyone. Explore this guide to discover your new favorite spot to sip and savor.

1. Quartino Ristorante
2. Volare Ristorante Italiano
3. Mia Francesca

4. Avec Restaurant
5. City Winery at the Riverwalk
6. Beatnik West Town
7. City Winery Chicago

Number of companies

20467

Verified reviews

4,47

Average rating

(312)6985000

1. Quartino Ristorante

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

626 N State St, 60654.0, Chicago

Wine bar
Pizza restaurant
Italian restaurant

Why we chose them

Quartino Ristorante is a vibrant Italian restaurant and wine bar known for its authentic culinary offerings and lively ambiance. Specializing in both big and small plates, this eatery brings a taste of Italy to its patrons with handmade pizzas, artisanal salumi, and housemade cheeses. The restaurant takes pride in its dedication to Italian culinary traditions, offering Neapolitan-style pizzas, handcrafted pastas, and a variety of regional specialties. With locations in Chicago, IL and The Colony, TX, Quartino provides a memorable dining experience, whether for a casual meal or a special event in their private dining spaces.

This establishment also features an extensive wine bar with exclusive vintages from family-owned, small-production Italian wine estates. The Wine Club, available at the Texas location, offers a unique opportunity for members to explore these premium selections. Additionally, Quartino’s commitment to quality and tradition is recognized by the coveted Ospitalita Italiana award, celebrating its adherence to Italian cultural practices. Part of the renowned Gibsons Restaurant Group, the restaurant upholds a legacy of exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence, making it a standout choice for our company directory.

(312)4109900

2. Volare Ristorante Italiano

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

201 E Grand Ave, 60611.0, Chicago

Wine bar
Bar
Cocktail bar
Delivery Restaurant
Takeout Restaurant
Italian restaurant

Why we chose them

Volare Ristorante Italiano, a family-owned gem nestled in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood since 1997, offers a delightful escape into the world of classic Italian dining. The establishment captures the essence of an old-world Italian eatery, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests are treated to a menu that combines traditional Italian cuisine with touches of Sardinia and modern accents, promising a unique culinary journey. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence ensures that patrons enjoy an outstanding dining experience that keeps them returning for more.

With a range of services including a wine bar, cocktail bar, and options for delivery and takeout, the restaurant caters to diverse preferences. The menu features both contemporary interpretations of classic comfort dishes and innovative explorations of Italian cooking. Whether dining in or enjoying their offerings at home, guests can savor the rich flavors and creativity that define this beloved establishment. The dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Italy in the heart of Chicago.

(312)4828800

3. Mia Francesca

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,7/5

200 E Chestnut St, 60611.0, Chicago

Wine bar
Italian restaurant

Why we chose them

Francesca’s On Chestnut offers a delightful blend of authentic Italian cuisine in an upscale environment, perfect for those seeking a refined dining experience. Known for its exquisite dishes, this Italian restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its culinary offerings. Patrons can indulge in a variety of traditional Italian dishes, expertly crafted to highlight the rich flavors and textures that define this beloved cuisine. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a standout choice for Italian food enthusiasts.

In addition to its renowned dining experience, Francesca’s On Chestnut features a sophisticated wine bar, offering a curated selection of wines that pair beautifully with their menu. This location is part of the celebrated Mia Francesca family, which has been serving the Chicago area for over 30 years. The restaurant also accommodates private events and catering, ensuring that guests can enjoy their Italian favorites in any setting. With its commitment to exceptional service and a memorable dining experience, Francesca’s On Chestnut is a must-visit destination for Italian cuisine lovers.

(312)3772002

4. Avec Restaurant

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

615 W Randolph St, 60661.0, Chicago

Wine bar
Brunch restaurant
Restaurant
Mediterranean restaurant

Why we chose them

avec Restaurant offers a vibrant culinary experience with its inventive small and large plates that bring a Midwestern twist to Mediterranean classics. Inspired by the sun-drenched wine regions of Southern Europe, this restaurant has been a Chicago favorite for two decades. Originally conceived as a wine bar, it continues to captivate guests with its soul-warming rustic cuisine and wine-focused menu. Guests can enjoy this unique dining experience at two locations: West Loop and River North, both offering a warm and inviting atmosphere complemented by their hip surroundings.

The restaurant provides a variety of services including a wine bar, brunch restaurant, and Mediterranean restaurant, ensuring a memorable visit for every guest. Bar avec, located on the 8th floor of 640 N Lasalle Drive, combines the charm of casual seaside diners from the Iberian Peninsula with breathtaking views of Chicago’s downtown skyline. The restaurant also caters to private events and offers a wine club subscription, further enhancing its appeal as a premier dining destination. Whether hosting a private event or enjoying a casual meal, avec embodies the leisurely style of dining and imbibing cherished across Mediterranean coasts.

(312)2295593

5. City Winery at the Riverwalk

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,2/5

11 E Riverwalk South, 60601.0, Chicago

Winery
Concert hall
Live music venue
Restaurant
Wine bar

Why we chose them

City Winery at the Riverwalk is a captivating destination nestled between Dearborn Street and State Street, offering a unique blend of urban charm and scenic beauty along the Chicago Riverwalk. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this venue invites guests to Indulge Your Senses with an impressive selection of locally-produced wines, cocktails, and beers. The picturesque city views create an ideal backdrop for enjoying delicious food that perfectly complements the beverage offerings. This combination of exquisite tastes and stunning vistas makes it a standout choice for those looking to experience the heart of Chicago.

Beyond its culinary delights, City Winery at the Riverwalk is a dynamic hub for entertainment, functioning as a concert hall and live music venue. Visitors can immerse themselves in performances while savoring their favorite drinks. The venue also serves as a versatile restaurant and wine bar, making it an ideal spot for both casual meet-ups and special occasions. Its reopening on March 17, 2024, marks a new chapter for this beloved establishment, promising an unparalleled sensory experience for locals and tourists alike.

(312)9294945

6. Beatnik West Town

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

1604 W Chicago Ave, 60622.0, Chicago

Wine bar
Bar
Brunch restaurant
Cocktail bar
Event venue
Mediterranean restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Beatnik West Town stands out as a boho-chic New American restaurant and bar, offering an eclectic blend of services that includes a wine bar, cocktail bar, brunch restaurant, and event venue. Located in Chicago’s vibrant West Town, it provides an exotic neighborhood escape with its maximalist interiors and lush gardens. Inspired by the bohemian freethinkers of the 1950s and ’60s, it channels the beatnik generation’s style and aspiration, creating an ambiance that is both rebellious and inviting. The restaurant’s culinary journey takes patrons on a flavorful adventure from the Eastern Mediterranean, through Northern Africa, and all the way to Mexico, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

The beverage offerings at this establishment are equally impressive, with a focus on tropical cocktails crafted with a no-waste sensibility, alongside a compact yet diverse wine list that showcases winemakers from lesser-known regions of the Mediterranean and the Americas. Known for its inventive recipes and globetrotting cuisine, Beatnik West Town is also a prime venue for private events, accommodating everything from intimate gatherings to company-wide celebrations. With a passionate events team ready to assist, it ensures that every occasion is tailored to perfection. This combination of innovative dining, unique atmosphere, and versatile event hosting makes it a noteworthy addition to any culinary directory.

(312)7339463

7. City Winery Chicago

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

1200 W Randolph St, 60607.0, Chicago

Winery
Event venue
Restaurant
Wine bar
Live music venue

Why we chose them

City Winery Chicago stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a unique blend of entertainment and dining. Known for its exceptional wine offerings, this venue combines the art of winemaking with the vibrant atmosphere of a live music venue. Guests can immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience as they savor delicious Mediterranean food while enjoying performances by talented artists. The establishment’s dedication to providing an unforgettable experience is evident in its seamless fusion of gastronomy and music.

As a versatile event venue, restaurant, and wine bar, this company caters to a diverse clientele looking for a dynamic night out or a sophisticated place to host events. The ambiance is carefully curated to offer both intimacy and excitement, making it a perfect spot for everything from casual nights to special occasions. Its commitment to quality and atmosphere is why it was chosen for our directory, representing the best in culinary and entertainment offerings.

FAQs

What types of wines can I expect to find at Chicago wine bars?

Chicago wine bars typically offer a diverse range of wines, including local Midwest varieties and international options from regions like France, Italy, and California. You'll find everything from reds and whites to rosés and sparkling wines.

Are there food pairings available at wine bars in Chicago?

Yes, many wine bars in Chicago offer gourmet dishes and small plates designed to complement their wine selections. These can include cheese boards, charcuterie, tapas, and more.

What is the average price range for wines at Chicago wine bars?

The average price for a glass of wine in Chicago wine bars ranges from €8 to €15, while bottles can range from €30 to €100 or more, depending on the vintage and rarity.

How can I choose a good wine bar in Chicago?

When choosing a wine bar, consider factors like wine selection, ambiance, food pairings, price range, staff knowledge, and location. Reading reviews and asking for recommendations can also help.

What should I look for in a knowledgeable wine bar staff?

A knowledgeable wine bar staff should be able to guide your wine selections, suggest pairings, and provide information about the wines' origins, flavors, and suitable occasions.

Do Chicago wine bars offer events or tastings?

Yes, many wine bars in Chicago host events such as wine tastings, themed nights, and educational sessions to enhance the wine-drinking experience and expand your knowledge.

Are wine bars in Chicago typically expensive?

Wine bars in Chicago cater to various budgets. While some offer affordable options, others provide premium selections for those looking to splurge. There's something for every price range.

How accessible are wine bars in Chicago in terms of location?

Chicago wine bars are often located in vibrant neighborhoods and are easily accessible by public transport or car. Many are situated near other attractions, making them convenient for an evening out.