Empty Bottle
Chicago, IL 60622-3571
Phone: (773) 276-3600
- Cross Street:
- W Cortez Street
- Directions:
- Bus: 49 to Thomas Street, 70 to Western Avenue.
- Hours:
- Mon-Wed 5pm-2am , Thu-Fri 3pm-2am , Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-2am
Editorial Review for Empty Bottle – by Citysearch Staff
The Scene
At this combination old-time corner tap and hipster hangout, concert posters festoon walls, and Christmas lights hang regardless of season. Sight lines in the small, L-shaped space (management optimistically puts its capacity at 400) are excellent. If music's not your thing, retreat to the anteroom and its shaggy seating, arcade games and pool table. The long, vintage wooden bar serves reasonably priced bottles of beer, as well as a nice selection of drafts and microbrews, wines by the glass or bottle, and cocktails.
The Draw
Empty Bottle's a destination for explorers of jazz and out-there rock from Chicago and beyond, plus dance/DJ fans; owner Bruce Finkelman has a reputation for gutsy programming. Sundays are DJ nights, and Tuesdays and Wednesdays sport free-form jazz ensembles from around the world. Grab appetizers, salads, sandwiches and pastas at the club's sibling, Bite, right next door.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoMost shows are in the $3-$10 range.
When to GoSince 1996, Wednesday nights have been dedicated to avant jazz and improvised music.
User Reviews for Empty Bottle
12/18/2003 Posted by armaghetto
Empty Bottle is a very cozy place, a dive bar with chic. The immediate stage area is small and intimate, but also perfectly visible from the bar if you don't want to get right up front. Cheap drinks are also a nice plus (a shot and 2 beers was 10 bucks)
Pros: cozy, intimate stage, cheap liquor
Cons: dive-ish
04/02/2003 Posted by chicagopatrick
I've only been there once, but would definitely recommend this place. There is an above average selection of beers, and the prices are very reasonable, especially if you're low on cash- $1.50 PBR's, etc. The place is definitely a dive, but when the band plays and you're sucking back cheap beer, you just don't care. One tip, know exactly where you're going when you go to this place. I don't think there is a sign that says 'Empty Bottle', so it's very possible to get confused.
Pros: Cheap beer, Good service, Cheap cover
Cons: iffy sound system, No sign w/ bar's name
