Matchbox
(312) 666-9292
770 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago,
IL
60622
41.8957
-87.6548
Neighborhoods: Goose Island, West Side
What People Are Saying About Matchbox
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
Kitschy pop-culture memorabilia and candlelight add even more character to this unbelievably tight corner hangout. The bar and a dozen stools consume all but a few inches along the length of the narrow, window-lined room; a handful of tables and chairs accommodate patrons out front in warm months. Music is bartender's choice, which generally runs the edgy-rock gamut from the 1960s to now.
The Draw
Human gridlock is part of the bar's odd charm--20-something fringe types mashed together with older neighborhood regulars--but beverages are the main attraction. Besides impressively large selections of bottled beers, wines and top-shelf liquors, Matchbox boasts acclaimed (but reasonably priced) cocktails incorporating fresh ingredients and mixers made from scratch; popular offerings like margaritas benefit from hand-squeezed lime juice, and bloody marys are custom-built with horseradish, patron-chosen seasonings and pickled veggies. Food is limited to bagged snacks at the bar, but the adjoining Silver Palm restaurant serves supper-club favorites.
User Reviews
MNeigh
April 27, 2009
The patio outside of the Matchbox is my favorite place to be on a warm Chicago day. The bartenders mix classic cocktails to perfection. There are dozens of cigars available. and the food from the Palm is always excellent.
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astandsforactual
May 11, 2008
To the last reviewer: Take a hint!! you get lousy service because your a lousy tipper...obviously you've never worked in the industry!!!
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Anonymous
November 13, 2007
I tend to be someone who can get a little claustrophobic, so I did not last long in this bar. My martini was fantastic (especially since I dont usually drink them), so if you dont made the intimate setting, then you may really like this bar.
read full reviewThe Details on Matchbox
When to Go:
The place is always packed--literally--so anytime is prime (if you like crowds). Some stick to visiting only in spring and summer, when outdoor seating is available.
The Extras:
The bar shares owners and neighborhood space with the Silver Palm restaurant.
Minimum Age:
21
