Bokeh is a relaxing cocktail bar in Albany Park, just a few steps north of the Kedzie brown line. Small space but typical for a cocktail bar and very comfortable. Acceptable noise level for conversation. We enjoyed 2 cocktails both of which were tasty as well as small plates of grilled brocollini, kale salad (delicious) and corn fritters. Friendly service. read more

Bokeh - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Some of the best cocktails I've had in Chicago! Cocktails are inventive and experimental. Quality throughout. cozy atmosphere / aesthetic. Have been here many times & always loved my experience. There is no place like this one in Albany Park. read more

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My girlfriends and I were looking forward to an evening of cocktails, music and catching up but when we arrived at Bokeh we were told that we had to leave. We were made to feel unwelcome and the staff was rude to the point of telling us that they couldn't serve us. The website stated that there was going to be a dj on Saturday evening but there was no dj or music. We were misled! read more

What a hidden gem! The vibe here is so great. The ambiance and chill music set the tone for an enjoyable time here. I love how small the bar is and the cocktails are so tasty!! The bartender can direct you to a cocktail as well. The names of them are fun too! I will definitely be back next time I'm in the area. read more

Bokeh - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A cozy, beautiful cocktail bar with incredible ambiance and fantastic drinks! Conveniently located right off the Kedzie Brown Line, and recently expanded capacity with an outdoor patio! It's a great spot to take a date, meet people at the bar, or hang out with friends. The drinks and food menus rotate seasonally, making it fun to visit to see what's new. It's queer-friendly too! An expanded food menu would be great as well as increased visibility. I can't believe how many times I walked past this place to/from the Brown Line without ever seeing it. Such a great local business go have in Albany Park! read more

Great neighborhood place, I used to live on the border of Albany Park, and if I were still there, I'd be a regular stool warmer for sure. I did come in with someone that is a few blocks away, so there's that neighbor like connection. I also have no idea why anyone would say Bokeh is incongruous with the neighborhood. While slow when I got there upon leaving the place was full with a mix of folks, they seemed local since the parking is easy right in front with plenty of open spots. My guess is they walked there. In any event, whether you live close by or not, this place is worth a visit. It's mainly a bar with a limited but very well thought out menu. I had an old fashioned, one of the best I've had in a while, it was smooth with the right compliment of sweet and bitters, I wish I had one right now. I also had a burger, very tasty with a good helping of thinly sliced pickles, so good. I bring up the pickles because I know a couple of people that don't like them, what kind of people are these? I know a few people in the area, so I definately plan on going back. read more

I found this beautiful place only a few years ago and could not be happier with my findings. The atmosphere is exactly what I was looking for. Chill, beautifully decorated and the best atmosphere I've come across in forever. Great for a casual first date and or a meet up with friends. This place has something for everyone from their adorable cocktail menu to their beer/ wine list. Have you ever touched the sun? Because that's what it felt like taking a sip from a drink made by Kirsten. I've gotten to meet so many new friends from the fellow patrons to the amazing staff. The bartenders are always willing to chat and recommend drinks. Delicious drinks and wonderful service and staff. 10/10. Cannot wait to go back. read more

I stopped in last night. It's chill. A Manhattan and a Deschutes porter cost me $27 (inc. a $7 tip). An earlier reviewer complained that Bokeh is incongruous for the neighborhood, and accused it of improperly appealing to bourgeois whites. Or something equally asinine, whatever. Is the place incongruous for the neighborhood? Emphatically yes, though it's incongruous for *any* contemporary neighborhood: Very loungey, very chill, like a place you'd have expected to see in River North ca. 2005. Almost retro in affect. Vibe was chill. Saw no bourgeois whites, but all the POC (including myself?), were visibly and obviously bourgeois, in dress, demeanor and chatter. Music was chill, lighting was dark and chill, temperature was comfortable, not chill, service was chill, efficient, friendly without being cloying or too chill. Chill spot. Would def chill there again. read more

I'm glad this bar is on Yelp, otherwise I probably wouldn't have found it. I was looking for a bar that would serve a Manhattan, and I was pleasantly surprised to find this place. Bokeh is on a main Street but it's entrance can be easily missed. The atmosphere inside looked stylish and clean. The drinks were amazing, and crafted with care and detail. The bartender was personable and attentive. Also, this place serves excellent food. I went with the burger and fries - a staple menu item but on a much higher tier than typical fast-food fare. I am looking forward to trying out more of their drinks and food. read more

Bokeh - Revolver - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a great addition to the neighborhood! The menu is accessible. Lots of options and all at a reasonable price. There are several specialty cocktails and many standards on the menu as well. There is definitely something for everyone. Space has a great feel to it, low lit and lounge like. Music was complementary to the space and at just the right volume. I got an appetizer, the egg sandwich (excellent) and the doughnut dessert. All were great and I would order them again in a second. Unfortunately there are so many other things on the menu I also want to try. I ordered a Manhattan, which was perfect. I also got a Buttered Rum, which was great. Bokeh scratches an itch I didn't even realize I had! read more

Love having a neighborhood cocktail joint with "cool" vibes. Drinks are tasty and creative, prices are reasonable and the location makes it a good happy hour spot for those who take the Brown Line to the loop. I look forward to returning! read more

This is a new cocktail bar that just opened in Albany Park. We stopped in during their soft opening and had a really nice time. We ordered several cocktails which were all really well made - but a little on the pricey side - and the smashed fried potatoes which were delicious and almost reminded me of nachos with a potato twist. We sat at the bar, which did not have purse hooks (I look for those everywhere I go) and the bar stools were not super comfortable, although they never really are. The overall vibe is very sleek but comfortable and intimate, so great for a date or small group. Since it was still their soft opening they of course are still finding their rhythm, but this will definitely be a great addition to the neighborhood. read more

Bokeh is a wonderful addition to the culture of Albany Park and diverse eateries that represent this neighborhood. I'm reviewing this sweet spot during its opening week. Yes, there are some kinks to work out with any opening, but I'm hopeful for this place. We ordered a couple of libations: French 75 & Old Fashioned and two eats: bacon-wrapped dates and beet-deviled eggs. Everything was on point. I look forward to coming back. Support local establishments! read more

Great addition to the neighborhood! Super tasty cocktails, friendly staff, good tunes, and wonderful service. Will definitely be back :)

Hip place with great cocktails. Cool atmosphere; the owner displays art from local Chicago artists. read more

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Bokeh is the perfect cocktail bar - dark and moody but not overly contrived. I am able to satisfy all my egg white cocktail dreams here. I love their dessert cocktails too. The selection is vast and thoughtful. We end every date night at this amazing spot. I always can't wait to return. read more

This is such a cool little spot! Although I no longer live in Chicago, I did live in Albany Park for about 6 years prior to moving to Ohio. I was back in the city to visit with friends and they took me to this spot which was new to the neighborhood and I really wish it had been around when I still lived a few blocks away! It honestly doesn't look like much from the outside but don't let that deter you! The inside has a cool, cozy, chic vibe while keeping the drinks reasonably priced. You can feel swanky without hurting your wallet! They had plenty of cocktails to choose from both unique and imaginative as well as your standard classics. Limited beer/wine menu so if you're hoping for something up that alley, this might not be the best spot for you. Food was also spot on! We got the smoked fish dip and I could have eaten it by the spoonful. Friends also got a burger and fries which looked delicious, although I did not try it. Make sure you stop in soon--this is soon to be a neighborhood classic for sure! read more

A beautiful space, with excellent drinks and food. They've done an amazing job with the buildout, and the staff is top tier. Go support this neighborhood gem. It's got heart and soul, and isn't a flash in the pan. A fantastic spot for a pre-dinner cocktail, a light nosh, or a place to sit and drink while the world moves by. read more

This is a cozy small place in the heart of Albany Park. Their cocktails are top. The food options are small and simple, but good. I will definitely come back for another Rosmery Gin or a Podscard of Japan. read more

Super cozy, dimly lit place with delicious drinks and friendly staff. Martin was our bartender and he was lovely! Also love the funny sign out front saying, "sexy cocktails for sexy people." Haha, makes a lady feel special. read more

Love the owner and their commitment to the neighborhood. Always happy to see a queer pride flag posted, too. Delicious snacks and drinks, easy going atmosphere. Take away options in covid make everything better! read more

Craft cocktails friendly staff. Limited menu but everything was tasty. If you want a well made cocktail or good selection of bourbon/rye give this place a try! read more

I really like the interior design. Their soft opening menu is pretty good and I can't wait to see what the full menu will be like. This will be one of my regular spots, it's exactly the kind of place I was hoping would open up in my neighborhood. The bacon wrapped dates were my favorite part. The Spanish nuts were good too! Great menu for just snacking little bits as you go. I wouldn't order more than two plates at a time since everything came out quick and the tables are small. Attentive service, It was very busy Friday nught when I was there but the small space was easily commanded by the bartender and the host/waiter. The cocktail program is ambitious and the ones I had were delicious. The mezcal cocktail with egg white was my favorite, but I haven't tried them all yet. The bartender said they'd change the menu each season so hopefully I can try the rest before winter! read more

I love this place. Very intimate, chill, excellent cocktails, great decoration, great food and wonderful people. read more

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After dinner next door at Wabi Sabi to celebrate my wife's birthday, we ventured into this bar which was quaint and has a robust selection of cocktails. I went with an Old Fashioned and my wife ordered a Rule of Thirds served in a fancy glass. Drinks were on point and we sat at the bar although on a Friday night just before 8 there was plenty of seating in this cozy neighborhood spot. We'll have to return for their happy hour! read more

Delicious drinks in a cozy new bar in our neighborhood. We went at around 8pm on a Friday and didn't eat. But all the drinks we tried were well balanced (these aren't the actual names but basically: bartender special, negroni, old fashioned, beet and gin drink). The service was great, too. Our server listened to our flavor preferences and had well considered recommendations for us. Only suggestion I have is to move the paper towel rolls in the bathroom. They're right over the toilets so you can't help but sprinkle water over them when you're looking to dry your hands. Anyway, it's a much needed addition to the area and we will definitely return to try the food! read more

This spot is super chill. Kinda small-can fit maybe 25 people comfortably. But the ambiance is great. Low dim lights and chic decor make it look upscale-y, but there's nothing pretentious about this place. They were spinning good tunes and the cocktails pack a punch! The owners have done a very nice job here and have earned the title of "hottest low-key spot in Albany Park." read more

Decent place. Contrary to what someone said about Albany Park being a working class area, and that the drinks and food are too expansive, the packed place yesterday would suggest otherwise. This is a changing ward. Anyways, good drinks. Fast service. Had a drink with egg and mezcal whose name escapes me. I told them I hoped that they did NOT Nighthawk themselves. Not sure exactly, but I noted a faint sewer smell, similar to actually what I've smelled at Nighthawk. That's the reason for the 3-4 stars. It should be a good addition to the area, can't all be cheap drink garbage. The bacon wrapped dates were also quite good, I would expect anything bacon wrapped robe tho. Was great to see this type of place in the area overall. read more

Edit- this post was initially deleted because it wasn't clear about my visit. Let me clarify... I did go to Bokeh but the vibe of this place didn't meet my expectations and I was very unsatisfied with my visit. I visited because it was a new bar close to my home and I was very disappointed. Albany park consists of working class people and primarily people of color and this bar seems to cater towards a different audience. The prices are too expensive. I fear that an upscale bar like this will raise the rent of places nearby. I would like Bokeh if it was more low key, cheaper, and didn't try to have a cool aesthetic. It's not what this neighborhood needs. If you want a trendy place go to Logan Square, don't contribute to gentrifying businesses that are so out of touch of the needs of the neighborhood. In an article mentioned that he lives in Albany Park but traveled elsewhere for drinks.... that's because this neighborhood doesn't need trendy bars!!!! We don't want hipster places coming here! Will not be visiting again and will use my money to support businesses that align with my values. read more

Wow. Here? Walking distance?! I was treated like a queen. Perfect cocktail bar. Haven't had the scrumptious food yet, but will take advantage of the 4-7 happy hour next visit. I love this classy hidden gem. Can't wait to dive deeper. Barely got my toes wet. Stay tuned. High potential for swoonworthiness. read more

Great little cocktail bar. Very tiny but charming atmosphere without any attitude. Drinks were outstanding and our server Kiersten was delightful. Will definitely be back. read more

I've been to Bokeh twice already this week, and both visits were great. The staff are super friendly, the atmosphere and music were chill and I dug the vibe overall. My second visit was during happy hour, which had a bevy of great cocktails and small plates at very reasonable prices. My coworker/neighbor and I had two cocktails a piece shared their pâté and our bill was under $35 with tip. I'm happy to finally have a cocktail bar in the neighborhood that caters to my taste in drinks, music and food. read more

Bokeh has a great atmosphere and the food and drinks were just what we were looking for. Definitely worth a visit!

We were given the recommendation of Bokeh by a beer brewer and wow did we love these cocktails! I had the Ultra Viollette and the lemongrass ice cubes were my favorite thing ever! This is the Violet Hour level craft cocktails at half the price. Run don't walk! read more

Super chill place with great cocktails and snacks.small but welcoming and great service.Great addition to the neighborhood!

I am just catching up on writing a review for this spot! My wife and I stopped in for a quick cocktail and some apps on a Saturday evening. We got the last two person table as the entire place was full. We loved our deviled eggs and trout dip. I had a cocktail and my wife had some wine. Everything was fantastic and I am so excited to have this place right around the corner from me. We will be back for sure. Also, they happy hour rates which will save a few bucks Sunday - Thursday. read more

This place is amazing!!!!! Now mind you I have not been there YET. I deliver wine and liquor for Breakthru Beverage, as a member of local 710 teamsters union, I am sad to say that we are on strike. It's a tough time walking the picket line and not out delivering like I and my union brothers are used to. Reading what Rick Weber has told the company regarding us drivers is that little bit of sunshine during our dark time. Mr. Weber, you sir are a class act, I'm sure I can speak for everyone of the men who are walking the picket line when I say. THANK YOU for your support!!!!! read more

Amazing bar and staff. I wish i had a joint like this near my place back home. It's so rare to find a welcoming, small bar to decompress. The service was great. I'm not a person who cares to have a server on top of me while I'm enjoying friends. The drinks were inventive and tasty. The food came to us in a reasonable amount of time. It looked amazing and tasted great and was a great value. To be honest, I'm a dive bar kinda gal. Bokeh staff made me feel completely welcome and comfy. Can't wait to go back! read more

I've been here three times now and it's been a great experience each time. Having brought friends along each time, I've been fortunate to sample the whole drink menu. Everything I've tasted I've enjoyed, but the rule of thirds and shutter speed are two stand outs based on their herbaceous qualities. The few food items I've had were solid as well. Staff, music and decor are amazing as well, happy to have this new neighborhood spot. read more

Outstanding. A great addition to the neighborhood. The French 75 is excellent. Check it out. read more