The 20 Best Cocktail Bars In Chicago

"The Violet Hour in Wicker Park is a good destination cocktail bar from the people who own Avec and The Publican. This place might seem like it’s trying hard to be cool—from the unmarked door to the “House Rules” (which ban baseball caps, Cosmopolitans, and any drink that’s a -bomb, jager or otherwise). It doesn’t come off as obnoxious, though, because the craft cocktails really are good. Inside, it feels like a lounge more than a bar—it’s dark, with lots of candlelight, plus comfy chairs and tables that can be sectioned off for privacy. Overall, not a bad spot to celebrate the launch of your top-secret baseball-cap-recycling startup." - adrian kane, john ringor