Best Bets for the Newly Single in Chicago

via The Robey Hotel

Spring is the time for new beginnings and if your new relationship didn’t make it past the holidays (we’ve all been there), it’s the perfect time to get back out there. Let’s drag ourselves out of the chocolate coma from Valentine’s Day and go out with the girls (and/or guys). Follow along as we go through the best spots to hit up if you’re newly single.

Clever Coyote {2016 West North Avenue, Chicago; 872.315.3063}

Tiki-inspired drinks  and chicken wings? Count us in! Clever Coyote, located on the second floor of The Robey Hotel in Wicker Park, is a 90’s inspired bar that is definitely a MOOD. You’ll find yourself humming along to top hits from the 80’s and 90’s while you play classic arcade games and shuffleboard. 

Roots Pizza {Multiple Locations}

If you ask us, one of the best ways to get over your ex is to eat really good food with all your friends. And at Roots Pizza you can do just that. Stop by one of their many locations and dig into appetizers like their EPIC Homemade Mozzarella Sticks and signature pizzas created from your favorite Chicago chefs including Brian Jupiter and Sarah Grueneberg.

Federales {180 North Morgan Street, Chicago; 773.831.9696}

Everyone knows Federales for the ice shot glass that you throw at their bell, but did you also know they have good food and even better margaritas? Plus, they serve late night tacos, so if you and your besties are hungry after your night on the town, this is the perfect pit stop on your way home. 

Estereo {2450 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.360.8363}

From a coffee bar to a cocktail bar, Estero is an all day (and night) kind of spot. Stop in in the afternoon for a coffee but then definitely stay for their evening cocktails like Piscos or Palomas. It’s dog-friendly too, so you can bring your four-legged friend to help break the ice with the future love of your life ;)

via Bub City

Bub City {435 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.610.4200}

If you love country music and are tired of the same old Chicago bars, Bub City should be on your list. Every weekend, Bub City has live music and drinks that draw in crowds, but we recommend coming early to try some of their classic BBQ dishes like Baby Back Ribs and Chopped Brisket Sandwich. 

Bandit {841 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.666.6061}

Everyone knows the West Loop is hopping on any given night. So if you’re looking for a spot to bring some fun vibes back into your life, Bandit in the West Loop is a good place to start! Menu items range from Kung Pao Cauliflower to the Manhattan Lobster Roll, and every dish pairs well with their cocktails.

Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink {1846 West Division Street, Chicago; 773. 276.7422} 

Machine’s happy hour is one for the ages. Every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, drop in to this Wicker Park cocktail destination/flower shop for half priced select bottles of wine and cocktails. Not only are the drinks delicious, but they are Instagram-worthy as well. Try the Eternal Sunshine made with Creyente Mezcal and topped with a sunflower. 

Emporium Arcade Bar {Multiple Locations}

Do you like drinks? Do you like arcade games? If you answered yes to either of those questions, we have the place for you! Emporium is an arcade bar equipped with all the things you need to have a fun night like pinball, air hockey, and drinks galore! Grab your friends, or set up a group date, for a night of fun.

By Madison Freeman | Special Correspondent