A great philosopher put it best: sometimes you wanna go where everypuppy knows your name. Luckily, the City of Big Shoulders is home to bazillions of dog-friendly dives. It’s always happy hour at our favorite dog-friendly bars in Chicago (because there are dogs).
River Shannon
Since 1946, *very* dog-friendly River Shannon has made it their mission to boop noses over The Best Guinness in the City. Plus there’s giant Jenga, free pupcorn, and a dedicated doggy photo booth. Lots of v good petters, so don’t expect your dog to give you much attention here.
Archie’s Iowa & Rockwell Tavern
Undisputed neighborhood fave Archie’s is *the place* to sniff and be sniffed. Drink here and expect like 5 dogs to greet you at the door and bartenders who’ll learn your name. And don’t furget: good dogs get cheeseballs.
Corner Bar
No-frills digs, locals, and virtually unheard of drink specials are just a few of the reasons we ruv Bucktown’s beloved Corner Bar. Um, $4 top shelf Fridays and $2 U-Call-It cocktails and shots on Sundays?! Takes us back to our paw-llege days.
Lizard’s Liquid Lounge
Looking fur a spot owned by someone who prioritizes pup patron enjoyment? Look no futher than Lizard’s Liquid Lounge in Irving, where dog-loving tavern owner Liz wants everypawdy to have a real good time. Pop in for drinks, live music, pool, karaoke, and pets—all the best things.
Bucktown Pub
Local favorite Bucktown Pub is the reason so many Chicago dogs know the word “pub.” There’s Tuesday karaoke, Thursday trivia, a legendary jukebox, a huge beer garden, futbol, popcorn, and frozen pizzas. Expect the tamale guy.
The Empty Bottle
Part-dive, part music institution, The Empty Bottle is a crown jewel on the dog-friendly Chicago drinkin’ scene. Since The Bottle doesn’t technically house its own kitchen, you can order brunch starting at 11 on the weekends—when the the lights are still down low (human headaches…WOOF).
The Native
The folks at The Native are rescue supporters with 13/10 popcorn your dog will absolutely wanna behave for. They’ve hosted everything from dog Halloween events to veggie dog eating fundraisers and are always down for a great pawty to save pups. See also: huge booths for your pal’s squad and a sprawling patio.
What’re pup’s favorite Chicago dive bars? Woof at us in the comments!
Featured photo: @rivershannonpub
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, and join our Dog-Friendly Chicago Facebook Group.