Chicago is known for its deep dish pizza, die-hard sports fans, and a storied past filled with mobsters and gangsters. It’s a city full of life with locals who know how to have a good time, wherever they are. So it’s no surprise that Chicago has plenty of BYOB (bring your own booze) joints where locals can enjoy a few of their favorite beverages without breaking the bank. We’ve narrowed down some of the best–from classic Italian food and bbq to Cuban and Argentine spots. Here are the 7 best BYOB Chicago restaurants.
1. The Angry Crab
Why not have a little fun while getting your seafood and BYOB fix in? At the Angry Crab, you’re bound to have a good time. From the finger-lickin’-good sauce to the boiled snow crab legs, this place will give you an entertaining experience and fill your belly. Bring your own booze and enjoy the down-to-earth ambiance in this unassuming joint.
2. Tango Sur
Loved by locals for its authentic, Argentine entrees, Tango Sur makes a mean filet, not to mention some serious empanadas. This Lakeview hotspot is a neighborhood favorite. What could possibly top a dinner that includes a juicy steak and no corkage fee? Try the Asado de Tira, short ribs cooked on a flat grill served with salad and vesuvio potatoes.
3. Jam ‘n Honey
The only thing you’ll regret about going to Jam ‘n Honey is showing up empty handed. Bottles of champagne are welcomed at this Lincoln Park casual diner, but it does charge extra for carafes of orange juice. Although many Chicagoans recognize this spot for its incredible brunch, Jam ‘n Honey is open until 9 pm so you can enjoy breakfast for dinner. If you like this spot, don’t forget to check out Chicago’s best bottomless brunches.
4. Caro Mio Italian Ristorante
Italian BYOB? Romantic BYOB? Check and check. Caro Mio has mastered the art of both, and it’s homey feel will have you feeling comfortable right when you walk through the door. Along with delicious menu items like salmon in a honey balsamic reduction, chicken piccata, and Asiago-stuffed gnocchi, Caro Mio has no corkage fee. Bring your favorite beverage to go with their homemade pastas; you won’t regret it.
5. Isla Pilipina
Getting delicious Filipino food in Chicago might be difficult, but not at Isla Pilipina. This BYOB spot serves up all the classics: lumpia, multiple types of pancit, bbq chicken, garlic rice, and more. Bring your appetite and stop by the liquor store next door to fuel your BYOB experience at this tasty joint.
6. 90 Miles Cuban Cafe (Logan Square)
Hit up this Cuban restaurant’s Logan Square location on a Monday and you’ll enjoy a corkage-free evening with your BYOB drinks. Or, just come during happy hour, M-F from 3-6pm, and you can grab $1 empanadas and take advantage of the no corkage fee then, too.
7. Smoque BBQ
This friendly, neighborhood spot doesn’t just have some of the best smoked BBQ in town, it’s also BYOB. Bring your favorite brew to pair with that brisket meal and don’t forget to order your favorite sides–the coleslaw, baked beans, and macaroni and cheese are some real crowd pleasers. Smoque’s homemade sauces might be the star of the show–after the meat, of course–and you’ll get to choose from a few different regional varieties.
Don’t live in the Windy City yet? Check out all our Chicago apartments for rent and choose one that works for you. Once you’re settled into your new place, head out to one of these BYOB spots and start enjoying your city.
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