Although, Bub City and Old Crow are awesome
Photo Credit: Bub City
It wouldn’t be a true compilation of Chicago country bars without mentioning Bub City and Old Crow. Bub City, probably known to non-country fans as that BBQ place with the Christmas lights, also has a huge whiskey selection and their own house beer. Old Crow Wrigleyville (and its rooftop) has been successful enough to open a River North location in John Barleycorn’s old spot.
Both locations have live music regularly and are usually one the first places someone will mention when you’re looking for a country bar. But they aren’t the only ones Chicago has to offer. For those still upset by the recent closure of long-standing dive bar, Carol’s Pub, this list is for you. Get your country fix at these other Chicago country bars.
Houndstooth
Photo Credit: Houndstooth Saloon
Don’t worry Wrigleyville fans, we’re not leaving you out! Houndstooth is a great spot for country music and southern rock, especially on Thursdays for Country Night and for their Country Sunday Fundays.
Joe’s Bar on Weed St.
Photo Credit: Joe’s on Weed St
This bar is known for its concerts and once you go, you know why. To see bigger names, you may have to win tickets, but the people who aren’t household names are high-quality. If you have the opportunity to go to their Singers & Songwriters Night, do it! Head upstairs for a laid back night. Their rooftop, over the off-track betting location next door, has a different feel but is another great spot to listen to live music.
The General
Photo Credit: The General
This Logan Square spot is perfect for a casual day. Their bluegrass brunch features live bluegrass music every Saturday. They keep it local there, serving 12 local craft beers on tap.
Firewater Saloon
Photo Credit: Yelp
You’ll have to travel North for this one, but this Edison Park bar is all country, all the time. Visit for live music Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.
The Country Club
Photo Credit: Country Club
The Country Club, just down the street from Old Crow, is another Clark Street spot for country. Live music starts at 9pm on Friday nights. Their own description of their bar says it all: Take the eclectic vibes of Austin’s 6th street, add musical chops that would fit right in Nashville, and you’ve got The Country Club.
Honorable Mention: Reggies Chicago
Photo Credit: Reggie’s Rock Club
Okay, this isn’t a country bar. At all. But it makes the list because they offer free buses to and from some country shows. This is a game changer when it comes to country concerts out in Tinley Park. Check out their calendar and visit their rooftop for your next concert pregame.
