From River Views to Irish Brews: Chicago’s Best (and Most Unique) Spots for St. Patrick’s Day
On St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, everyone – and everything – is at least a little Irish. And that’s why, whether you want to celebrate with a pint of Guinness in one of the top Irish pubs outside the Green Isle or you’d rather sip a Mai Tai by the green river, you’re in luck. Because this St. Patrick’s Day, there’s something for everyone in Chicago.
For People Who Want to See the River Turn Green
The day before St. Patrick’s Day – Saturday, March 16 – plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels are welcoming revelers to watch the Chicago River go green. These spots guarantee great food, drinks, and a great view and are the perfect way to ring in St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
1 W Wacker Drive
Raised, located on the third floor of the Renaissance Hotel, offers a unique vantage point to watch the Chicago River undergo its annual St. Patrick’s Day transformation. This heated rooftop terrace provides an open bar featuring green beer, mimosas, and Bloody Mary’s, alongside a live DJ and bagpiper, making it a must-visit for a spectacular St. Patrick’s Day.
330 N Wabash Avenue
With floor-to-ceiling views of the river-dyeing festivities, Travelle, the restaurant and lounge in the 5-star Langham Hotel in River North, is one part elegance and one part celebration. Guests can enjoy a live Irish fiddle duo while dining on green waffles and corned beef, among other brunch delights, making it a posh spot for St. Patrick’s Day.
316 N Clark Street
Situated along the waterfront, this River North spot serves a brunch menu built for St. Patrick’s Day revelry. Bottomless green drinks and festive eats await those looking to indulge in the spirit of the holiday – all with a prime view of the river dyeing.
For the Brunch Pro
With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Sunday this year, starting the day with a festive brunch is the way to go – and these spots are going all out.
3741 N Elston Avenue
This Avondale gem is steeped in Irish history and offers an expansive, all-you-care-to-eat Sunday brunch buffet. With a massive patio and a 2,000-square-foot garden, guests can enjoy live music, including fiddlers and bagpipers, alongside traditional Irish fare and draughts in a festive atmosphere.
3188 N Elston Avenue
This Avondale spot serves a hearty Irish breakfast and is known for its cozy atmosphere. Offering a mix of traditional Irish fare and American favorites, it’s a great place for a big breakfast, a relaxed pint, or – even better! – both.
For the Upscale Reveler
Check out these favorites if you want an upscale experience this St. Patrick’s Day.
RPM Seafood
317 N Clark Street
On Saturday, March 16, this chic River North seafood restaurant offers an upscale St. Patrick’s Day with serious river views. Enjoy a brunch buffet, passed appetizers, and a premium bar package in a luxe setting, perfect for those looking to celebrate in style. Plus, you’ll get to watch the river turn green from your swanky perch.
224 N Michigan Avenue
On the Magnificent Mile, Venteux spices up St. Patrick’s Day with French flair, offering special menu items and festive drinks. It’s a chic choice for those looking to celebrate in style. With seatings on both Saturday and Sunday, there’s plenty of time to try their annual Corned Beef Sandwich, which, we hear, sells out every year.
Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar
2700 W Chicago Avenue
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a unique twist at Heritage in West Town, offering a special corned beef dinner, sliders, and a full takeout package for those who prefer to celebrate at home. This spot is a perfect go-to for St. Patrick’s Day weekend or anytime. Not only is Heritage a Michelin Plate winner in 2023, but it’s a consistent “best oyster” winner from Chicago Magazine and others.
For the Traditionalist
Sometimes, only a pint of Guinness, festive music, and a sea of green will do. And if that’s the case, these classic Irish pubs are a must this St. Patrick’s Day.
10614 S Western Ave
With deep Irish roots, Cork & Kerry offers an authentic pub experience in Bridgeport and Beverly. Known for its friendly staff, fenced-in beer garden, and live music, it’s a go-to for a traditional celebration with a community vibe. Here, you can snag traditional Irish fare or some of their famous twists –on tradition – think Irish Egg Rolls with a pint of Guinness.
901 W Kedzie Avenue
As one of the only Guinness taprooms outside of Ireland, this West Loop brewery hosts a quintessential celebration with live music and brewery pours, embodying the spirit of Ireland in Chicago. If you’re looking for a (literal) taste of Dublin, this is your spot.
145 N Dearborn Street
Owned by Irish sisters Amy and Clodagh Lawless, The Dearborn Tavern in the Loop goes all out for St. Patrick’s Day. From March 14-17, enjoy special food and drink offerings, making it a vibrant spot to enjoy the festivities. This year, the tavern is partnering with Teeling Irish Whiskey and Guinness for specialty cocktails and glassware served alongside classic dishes, including Corned Beef & Cabbage, Corned Beef Reuben, and Shepherd’s Pie.
24 S Michigan Avenue
Situated on Michigan Avenue, The Gage is ideal for parade-goers looking for a sophisticated spot to continue the fun. Offering a wide selection of spirits and Guinness on tap – plus an amazing menu of European-influenced American fare – Time Out Chicago calls it one of the best spots to grab a bite and a pint post-parade.
751 N Clark Street
This River North pub offers an authentic Irish experience with traditional beers and live music. It’s a cozy spot for those seeking the warmth of Irish hospitality on St. Patrick’s Day. Grab a Keeper’s Heart Irish + American Mule cocktail or one of 13 beers on tap to kick off (or continue!) the weekend.
For Someone Who Wants Something Totally Different
There are countless ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, including these memorable (and truly unique) experiences.
435 N Clark Street
This award-winning tiki bar (or as they call it, a “tropical speakeasy”) in River North transforms for St. Patrick’s Day with a special Jameson Mai Tai, offering a tropical twist on the day’s celebrations.
Chicago Electric Boat Company
For a unique experience, take a BYOB cruise down the green waters of the Chicago River in a heated Luxury Duffy Boat, complete with personal space heaters and a Bluetooth sound system, offering a cozy and exclusive way to celebrate.
