Top 10 New Bars of 2008

by Valerie Moloney - Citysearch Editor - 335 Reviews - 98 Lists

Updated: November 24, 2008


Another year, another beer, and boy did we drink a few at Chicago's 2008 bar openings. We were buzzed in every season: We boozed at hotel lounges, inside gastropubs and by DJ stands modeled after church altars. Here, in no particular order, find the best new scenes of the year.

Chicago's Finest

  1. 1 2 Star Rating: Below Average HUB 51
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    51 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60610 (map)

    Sure, they officially call it a restaurant, but make no mistake: Night after night, this is one bumpin' scene. Chalk it up to the gorgeous wait staff, equally pretty patrons and the basement-level lounge for another DJ-driven party.

  2. 2 4 Star Rating: Recommended The Fifty/50
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    2047 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622 (map)

    When the home teams are losing, there's one more reason to hate a sports bar. But face it, Chicago, this city is dotted with them. Ups to this Division Street staple for bringing more to the formula than Budweiser mirrors and video poker. Strategically placed flatscreens, gussied-up bar food and multiple levels of lounging make it easier to cope on game days.

  3. 3 The Whistler
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    2521 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (map)

    Diversity is hip, y'all. That's evident from this Logan Square bar's mashup of punk, soul and Afro beats to its global selection of spirits, from Belgian ales to Midwestern brews.

  4. 4 2.5 Star Rating: Below Average Religion
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    720 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610 (map)

    The mere thought of getting trashed in a church is sacrilegious, which is, admittedly, 90 percent of this club's appeal. To assuage that guilt, simply kneel to the house DJ spinning high from the altar, raise your hands and say "amen."

  5. 5 2 Star Rating: Below Average Century Public House
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    1330 W Morse Ave, Chicago, IL 60626 (map)

    In this city of neighborhoods, pubs are as familiar a sight as brownstone walk-ups. But this Rogers Park tap stands out. Attached to the Morse Theatre, it's as old-school as they come with its antique lighting and nude mural behind the bar. The locally sourced food is hearty and familiar and the artisan wine list adds snob appeal.

  6. 6 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Uncle Fatty's
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    2833 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

    On name alone, this basement-level bar won the affection of Lakeview residents looking to throw down shots like it's 1993. And why wouldn't they? It reminds all of spring break: beach chairs on sand, a tiki bar and a friendly crowd swaying to live bands.