Music, Maestro

LIVE MUSIC BARS

By Marissa Rainone Live music is a vital part of Chicago's DNA. Check out some of our favorite spots where great music comes with food and/or drinks

Howl At The Moon

Get ready to sing and dance the night away. Howl At the Moon in the Near North is the best place for anything from memorable celebrations, such as holiday parties and bachelor/bachelorette parties, to just a fun night out with friends. Their energetic live music show features the best songs from the 80s, 90s, and today. Thirsty? Howl At The Moon offers a wide variety of specialty drinks and cocktails. Hungry? Chow down on some delicious burgers, pizza, tacos, and more. At Howl At The Moon the party never stops. Andy’s Jazz Club

Have an unforgettable evening with friends at one of Chicago’s best-known and most respected jazz venues. Andy’s Jazz Club in Near North is a classy, intimate venue that hosts the region's top jazz artists accompanied by casual dining. Enjoy live performances nightly at 6pm, 8:15pm, or 10:30pm. Admission is $15 per person, charged at the door. Be sure to make reservations.

B.L.U.E.S.

For live electric blues, visit B.L.U.E.S, the popular blues club on Chicago’s north side. With its retro vibes and cozy space, B.L.U.E.S. offers an authentic Chicago blues experience with artists such as Sunnyland Jim and Pinetop Perkins. All for a $10 cover. Great food and drinks complete the scene. B.L.U.E.S. is open every Wednesday through Sunday.

Bub City

How about some delicious barbecue, American comfort food, whiskey, and the best live country music? Check out Bub City in the Near North. Every Wednesday through Saturday night, Bub City features country musics’ emerging artists on the ACM-nominated venue’s 16-foot stage. Get the night started by stopping by from 3pm to 5pm on Monday through Friday for happy hour and enjoy half-priced Double-Barrel Burgers, Back Porch Teas, and featured Draft Beer.

Kingston Mines

Check out Lincoln Park’s world-famous Kingston Mines. The largest and oldest blues club in Chicago has hosted musicians such as Joanna Conner, Junior Wells, Magic Slim, Sugar Blue on their two stages and they continue to offer three great artists each week. Not only does Kingston Mines feature unbeatable music, they offer delectable food from Doc’s Kitchen.

Jazz Showcase

Experience the oldest jazz club in Chicago, founded in 1947, the Jazz Showcase. Located in Dearborn Station adjacent to Printers Row, the historic Jazz Showcase has hosted the greatest names in jazz, including Dizzy Gillespie, Randy Westion, Frank Morgan, James Carter, and many more. The club continues to present the top international and Chicago homegrown musicians. With show times every night from 8pm to 10pm, you and your friends will experience the most memorable, authentic jazz anywhere. Blue Chicago

Open since 1985, classic Blue Chicago in River North presents the best of Chicago Blues in a warm and friendly atmosphere. They have hosted such Blues legends as Koko Taylor, Bonnie Lee, Johnnie B. Moore, Karen Carroll, and many more. Blue Chicago is open Thursday through Sunday, with a $12 admission at the door.

Winter's Jazz Club

Check out Winter’s Jazz Club in Streeterville for a stylish, elegant night of jazz. Cabaret tables, specialty cocktails, and perfect acoustics add up to an excellent experience. Set times are 75 minutes and all seating is first come, first serve. Enjoy happy hour from 6pm to 7pm on Wednesdays through Saturdays and 4pm to 5pm on Sundays for 25% off all drinks. Book your tickets ahead.

House of Blues

Looking for a special night out with thrilling music and some great food? Check out the legendary House of Blues just north of the river at Marina City. Start the evening off at the restaurant and bar with their craft cocktails and Southern-inspired menu, including po' boys, jambalaya, brisket nachos, Voodoo Shrimp, and the Smokehouse Platter. After fueling up, it’s time to experience the incredible live rock and blues.