Bureau Bar is a very interesting spot in the South Loop. My wife and I went after work one weekday and decided to stop in for a drink. The place is small and decorated with local art. Very cool feeling and atmosphere. The bartender was also a very nice guy. We ordered a few specialty cocktails and were disappointed in both drinks. With some love, this could be a great spot. Please upgrade the drink menu! read more

First time visiting Chicago and tried to go to M Lounge- which despite the posted hours, were not yet open. A few locals who had also attempted to go to the bar were nice enough to share that they would be going around the corner to Bureau. I'm so glad we followed! Nice, laid back environment with friendly staff & strong drinks. If I'm ever in Chitown again, I definitely will be back read more

Way to expensive. Go down the road. Bathroom was nasty. Ohwell is the attitude there.

Checked out The Bureau to watch the NBA finals. The bartender was friendly and made me a delicious drink! It's small, but cute and the people are friendly. I will definitely return! read more

"A work in progress" A group of us went here and found some seats. You can tell the place doesn't really cater to large groups.. moreso intimate groups based on the layout. It is a nice bar and I'd love to have an after dinner drink with some convo there. So we went and there was a food buffet (not sure if it was day related or Bears related). It was quite tasty. Our waiter came over and we tried to order drinks. Ordered something from the menu (a beer) only to learn they didn't have it.. uhm why is it on the menu?! Anywho.. ordered the drinks she brough the total. I was about to pay and someone was like wait.. that total doesn't make sense.. She mixed up the order.. no harm no foul.. then after I paid.. I thought about it.. it was still pricey for 2 beers and a drink. A reviewer said it.. the ambiance and bar staff don't necessarily mesh. I have to go back again and think about this place in the context of a smaller group and I'll update if applicable. read more

I had a great time tonight at this cozy bar. Rayzine, the bartender, made amazing drinks. I enjoyed the Dusse sidecar drink that she made me. It's a great spot to go and have drinks with your friends in the South Loop Chicago area. I will be back throughout the summer for tasty drinks and nights out with friends. read more

Came here for the first time for the Mayweather/McGregor fight and returned not long ago for catching up over drinks with a friend. Both times we were greeted by friendly bar staff (Fabian) and delicious drinks. The atmosphere is that of a true bar - no food is served but there are plenty of places to eat around the area. A cocktail runs anywhere from $9-$12 depending on what type/quality of liquor you request but the portions are generous. Music is great and not too loud. However when the bar area is full it is standing room only which isn't that fun. Will be returning again soon! 5/5 read more

I wish it were better. I hope it gets better. You'll see what people are talking about if/when you come. I'm a block away, still waiting for a bar I like in the sloop. read more

New favorite neighborhood bar! What an awesome find. Have walked by it many times and decided to pop in tonight. Great DJ, great drinks, cool vibe, cozy, fun...just go here, you'll be happy you did read more

Bartender with the ratty, burgundy color weave has a sh*tty attitude. Weak watered down drinks are the standard and apparently sleezy patrons with roofies on deck feel at home here. 1 star for the music selection though. read more

I live down the block and on my frequent walks over to Acadia, I pass by and really wanted to check it out. It's really small but cozy. The decor is comforting and it was actually a solid time. They have Kentucky Bourbon Ale on tap, which is unique. Not a huge wine selection but adequate for their size. The good part about a small venue like this is the attention and being able to get personal preferences. Like we were there during the Olympics and the bartender asked us if we wanted music or the Olympics on. There were only 5 of us in there, but still, it was nice. We all were chatting together and it felt a little like a Cheers. There's no food given their size but they may want to consider things that don't require a kitchen. Like charcuterie or small bites like Square One does. The bartender, Sam, was awesome. She was super friendly and made it feel like we were all hanging out in someone's basement. She was definitely the highlight of the place. Overall it's an average neighborhood bar that I'm sure I'll make part of my regular group of spots I visit. The only knock I have is one guy, who appeared to be the owner, just sat in the corner the entire time not being friendly or anything. It makes a huge difference when owners, chefs, managers, etc. really show their patrons that they appreciate their business and it makes you want to go back to those places. I think a bit more effort could be made there to attract regulars. read more

The female bartender was extremely rude. From the start, her attitude was one where she gave zero @ucks about anyone. My friend and I walked in just to have a a drink, and when we asked for it, she acted as if it was the biggest burden! Terrible service! Will never come back! negative stars would be a better rating. read more

The atmosphere is comfortable and intimate, the owner is a good guy, which is why it was not a problem to pay for overpriced drinks. However an immature bartender with no idea of what customer service means will keep me from patronizing this business a second time. read more

What better review than the literal review I gave my friend in an email?: [i went to] this new spot on 16/michigan (the [3 peas] location or whatever it was called). it's called the bureau bar. quaint, nice decor... but not gonna last. my wine was DISGUSTING. like damn. and the bartender, sam (a female) was really sweet but clueless. this guy ordered a drink, i didn't hear the name, but she literally pulled up her phone for the recipe in his face and at the end was like "oh we don't have x and y, so i can't make that. sorry! [but i have to try that some time... it sounds good.]" [wth!] and even the beer [my friend] had... they only had enough on tap for ONE [drink]. they've been open for 1.5 weeks... how is that possible that you are out of stock of regular [insert bad word here lol]!?! the only somewhat positive is that the offer a FREE food buffet on the weekends (otherwise they don't have food... oh and nor do they have drink menus). fail. not going back. [my friend] was less turned off but you know how i am. what was surprising was the traffic... a solid number of people came in for a drink. they pretty much only stayed for 1 then rolled out, but there was consistent flow. i was very shocked considering the newness of it. Okay... so that was the real, honest truth I gave my friend about this place within a few hours after my visit. I haven't been back so I can't say this is an update review, but I will add a little more color. I gave it 1 star because as of now, "eek, methinks not". I said I wouldn't go back and I don't think it's going to last. That's potentially a little harsh. I would give it another try on a weekend perhaps. My visit was last Wednesday. Again, Sam was super sweet and welcoming. However, if a bar's only purpose is to serve drinks, I expect the drinks to be 1) of quality, 2) made well and 3) available. I'll give it another shot to see if the review can be bumped up a bit. I love my neighborhood so I would really love for this spot to be successful. read more

Nice lounge considering the small size. No food options on Wednesday however the bartender was very attentive.

I went with friend for a late drinking night. It is such an inconspicuous place. When you step in, it's very intimate and there's a casual upscale vibe (if that makes any sense). I also felt like I was in someone's living room for a cocktail party. I got a dirty martini and it was very good. There aren't a lot of seats available, but I didn't mind. read more

ONLY order drinks here if Mechelle is behind the bar. Otherwise, just sit back, enjoy the music and the vibe...with a glass of water.

We had to wait for the bartender for about 10 minutes before she noticed we were there... which is almost impossible because it's about 200 sq feet in there. Then just before we were going to leave, Snooki Jr. the bartender,came up to greet us. When asked about a drink menu, she said they had no menu. Snooks was sneaky and shifty and up charged our drinks above her original quote of $10. We had 3 drinks and every drink had a $3 upcharge!!! Total bullshit.!! Will never go back. The owner was behind the bar too and didn't even say hello.. service sucks!! Desperado is your only reason to go in here. read more

My Co worker recommended this spot and I'm happy she did. Went yesterday and had an awesome time. It's small but very cozy. They dint have a kitchen but I was told they sometimes have food catered. Thanks to Terrence for making me feel welcome. Make sure you check out his margaritas and "the hunch punch". read more

Took my fiancé here for some drinks before her birthday dinner. I rate my experience a 2. The one great thing about this place is the decor. It made me feel like I was walking into a well done man cave. Everything else was terrible. The place was so quiet it was awkward to talk above a whisper. The bartender had no clue what she was doing. She was so bad I would guess she has never had a drink in her life. I ordered a captain and coke and I received a drink that made me laugh out loud. First off the rocks glass was at most a four ounce glass. It was filled maybe with 3 ounces of liquid and ice. After my laughter I sample the drink and it was definitely shaken. It tasted like mcdonalds coke that was left in the car over night. My fiancées Manhattan took 5 attempts to get close to what the bartender thought was right. It wasn't. And the glass was chipped which they happily replaced. At this point I was still willing to give the place another shot because of convenience. Then I got the bill. $8 for 3 ounces of shaken ice coke and $11 for a Manhattan. Not in the south loop and not at this place. I will give it a couple of months and try again. If they don't have better talent behind the bar, better glassware, and better prices I will never return. I truly hope they listen to all the people who complain. Bartender and owner were very nice. Just hope they try to improve. read more

What a cozy, beautiful gem located in the South Loop. I was there last night for a dance event and the staff was welcoming and gracious; the decor was soothing and the smooth, wooden floors were amazing to dance on; and the Sunday evening patrons were friendly as well. I would definitely return. read more

Came here after dinner and since my lovely date lived close by, we stopped in to grab a drink before heading home. It has very cozy and intimate atmosphere, soccer was playing on TV, drinks were reasonably priced for being in the south loop. This place might be a great place to swing by before heading out for the night. I can see this place being PACKED with 25 people. read more

Very cozy south loop bar. Friendly faces and great bar service. Drinks were good and ambiance was very relaxing. Great date not spot. Didn't try the food menu...wasn't offered one. Couple TVs playing the NBA games read more

Way overpriced for what you get. Dull, unimpressive and not worth coming back. Bartender had bad attitude and seemed uninterested in serving anyone but regulars. Also, bathroom was filthy so it makes me wonder about the overall cleanliness of everything else in the place. read more

This spot is funny because they don't seem to be too concerned about advertising their presence. It's a small, speakeasy-feeling lounge that offers some great beer and liquor options. I'd treat this place as a date spot or a drinks after work spot. They have TVs but I wouldn't come here to watch a game. It really seems to be meant for socializing with people over drinks. No more. No less. read more

This place is cozy and the bartender is great. Speakeasy type atmosphere, a place to have a glass of wine and conversation.

Good place to lay back and catch up with friends. Very small but great music and people. The drinks are priced pretty high and the music is good. Limited space so it can become overwhelmingly crowded. read more

The Bureau Bar is the bomb! This has been the only bar in Chicago that has officially gotten me tipsy as hell. Sam is the best bartender in Chicago! Ask for her if you want to feel good and tipsy. The music is also great and puts you in the vibe. read more

Very nice experience. Great music and dj. Just be prepared to stand and not move around a lot as the lounge is crowded.

Terrible drinks. How do you mess up a rum & coke? They also gave us the wrong bill. Overall, not a good addition to the s. loop bar scene. I've tried them twice now, and I definitely won't be back. read more

Nice and cozy. Friendly staff and great to have another hang out in the S Loop! Give it a chance, go in for a drink before or after a pedicure (the nail social is right next door). Sit on the comfy couch and people watch out the window or up at the bar and enjoy the atmosphere. read more

Went here for the first time recently and enjoyed it. The bartender Sam was sweet and very accommodating. I tried her cranberry mojito and truly loved it. The space is very relaxed and a good place to grab a drink and unwind after work. read more

My first visit to Chicago, and this place was in walking distance of our hotel so we wandered over. Small, comfortable, everyone was friendly. My husband and I came back a couple of times during our stay. You'll feel welcome here whoever you are..black, white, gay, straight... Josh, one of the co-owners, was working the bar and made me the best Manhattan I've ever had. If I am ever in Chicago again I'll make it a point to come back! read more

Needed to find a bar within walking distance of McCormick place at 5 pPM on a Saturday. Our map program found the Bureau. There was only one guy at the bar, obviously a regular. Both he and the bartender were engaging, talkative and very friendly. I would recommend this place for a nice afternoon stop. read more

The vibe here is soo chill and awesome. Solodolo and could've stayed for hours listening to mellow tunes and people watching. The bartender (he may be the owner) is great. I'll be back. read more

I never write reviews on here; in fact, I created this account just to respond to the negative review I read. This is the cutest little bar in the South Loop. It's perfect for days when you want to meet up with some friends to grab a drink or just be alone and read a Kindle book (since it is a little dark in there). I've never had a bad experience with any of the staff and my drinks are always strong enough to make the extra calories actually worth it (you know what I mean)! I see people are saying pretty bad things about Mikko, who is such a sweetheart. I have a new drink coming my way before I even finish the last few sips of the previous one. She's always entertaining with her conversations and outgoing personality. With that said, I'm sorry that person (previous post) was unable to see that. They have a consistent crowd, and I don't think anyone would consistently patronize a business where they were treated poorly. #SupportSmallBusiness #SupportBlackBusiness read more

Should maybe be the bureau lounge? Love this bar for conversation and good drinks, Fabian will take care of you!

The Bureau Bar is a small, friendly location near Soldier Field. This establishment has the courage to support Kapernick and not play any NFL games until he is reinstated. The bar is cozy and the bartender/manager is very friendly. The bathroom is clean and prices reasonable for South Loop. We also had the opportunity to meet the owner and he spent time chatting with us.This is a great place for an afternoon brew and also for a romantic nighttime adventure. There is no food but you can bring food in. We will be back:-) read more

nice decor, intimate spot doesn't ease the pain of being charged full price for virgin drinks.

Me and my friend went on a Saturday at 6 pm. We wanted to check it out since we received several emails from them, but had never been. The bar is super small, but nice and quaint. The decor is beautiful. We walked in and there were 2 other people and the bartender/waitress looked right us and never greeted us, but continued to talk to her friend at the bar. After about 2-3 minutes she finally approached us. We asked for a drink menu. They don't have one. Seriously? So, we ordered a glass of wine and it was good, but the service was AWFUL. The bartender/waitress never checked on us we ended up having 3 glasses that night and we had to ask her each time. She even walked past us several times with empty glasses and never asked if we'd like another drink. She was so busy talking to her friend that she totally ignored us. When we were ordering the last drink she advised that they ran out of the wine. So, we said ok we'd think about what else we wanted, but keep in mind we had no menu to review. We're waiting and waiting for her to come back but she's busy talking to a couple at the bar. We were sitting at a high top table right next to the bar so it wasn't difficult for her to see us. After 5 minutes or so of waiting I just walked up to the bar and asked for the check. The place began to fill up later and she continued her conversation with friends instead of greeting customers immediately. This is review is not intended to be mean but just a critique to help the bar as this is an easy fix. If I'm paying $12 for a glass of wine (x3) I expect a good level of attention and service. read more