Pretty blah. I got the larger size of the strawberry shortcake martini and regretted it--looked and tasted like medicine read more

Marty's Martini Bar - Strawberry shortcake mArtini - Gay Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Came here with friends, about 8 of us, for my birthday recently (4/4/14) and loved it. We were able to get a table though, which made it much easier to enjoy. Aiming for Andersonville sophistication, with a mahogany bar and waiters donning black vests, the martinis were excellent. The servers were really nice too. I loved the ambiance too... music playing and dimmed lighting. However, really small place and really crowded on the weekend. They are currently renovating their outdoor patio though, so once its ready it should be excellent for additional summer space. read more

Smaller, nice wine and martini bar - nonsmoking, which I love - with great bartenders - look for Lucas and David. A bit pricier than most, but the quality of drinks is good and the atmosphere is fun. Be careful with the tipsy-tables and your martini glass! read more

GREAT Martini's and made extremely well. They have a wide selection of martini's but the drinks are strong enough that you only need to have 2 to have a good night. The bar staff was very friendly and engaging. read more

Nope...didn't do much for me. It's nice inside, but definitely too small. Just try squeezing yourself down the narrow walkway to the not-so-nice bathroom. Yes, it is supposed to be a swanky place, but the server was pretentious and condescending. On the plus side, the large martinis are definitely large! On the sad side, that's the only good thing about this want-to-be swanky establishment. Don't try too hard, we can all see through it... read more

I love me a small, cozy, dimly-lit watering hole. Throw in some good music and killer drinks? Guurrrllll, you got yourself a winner! At 10:00 on a Saturday night the hubs and I somehow managed to snag 2 seats at the bar, and settled in for a good time. The decor is sexy and comfortable, with a few high tops, and a really long bar. There's also a long row of seating across from the bar, which makes it super crowded, but, you find that you won't mind. We were celebrating our anniversary and I tell you this was the perfect place to end the evening. Since it was a celebration we went with the regular size as opposed to the mini (thank god we were traveling by taxi!); I went French and hubs had the Classic. For round two I had the Black Velvet..swoon! So yummy, so decadent, so deadly. I think that was it, but, after 2 the rest of the night is a blur. I think I asked the bartender to create something for me, and I think I loved it? Of course I did. Marty's is in the rotation as a favorite, the perfect spot for date night, girls night, drinking night, Tuesday night..you get the drift. read more

Marty's! You made me drunk dial! Uh oh...this is going to be a problem, living so close to Marty's. I finally visited here, and I wish I hadn't. I can tell that I'll be spending too much time and money here and becoming a regular. The drinks are great, and gigantic, which they should be for $13. The bartenders are spectacular. Everyone is so friendly, no one is a stranger. The bar is clean, cozy and comfy. I only wish was that there were some light snacks, maybe just cheese plates. Stiff martinis + an empty tummy = a cheap, fun date! read more

Does anyone remember how I got home last night, because I don't?!?! Holy cow...other yelpers were NOT kidding when they said the drinks were strong. Yes, $13 is a bit steep for a martini, but my oh my is it worth it. I had a dirty gin martini with blue cheese stuffed olives, and those babies certainly were stuffed! It was delicious. My second one was a negroni. Again, totally fabulous. Besides delicious drinks, the bartenders were awesome: friendly, attentive, funny...they made the experience an enjoyable one. It's a tiny spot, but intimate. We went on a Tuesday, so it wasn't packed, which was nice. I had a great time and would definitely go back! read more

Holy shit. I came here around 8:30 on a Wednesday night with a friend, and ended up regretting that I didn't have dinner before. After a few sips of one large and delicious cosmopolitain out on the adorable back patio, I was extremely tipsy. After I finished the drink, I was stumbling down the street and thanking god that my apartment was so close. I don't know how they manage to fit what must be at least three shots of ice-cold vodka in one glass, but it's delicious. Totally worth the $14. I'm not usually a liquor drinker, but there's something on this menu for everyone (even the lightweights, as there is a smaller sized martini for $9). Bartenders are adorable, refer to you by name, and give excellent table service. The crowd there seems nice and friendly, and often LGBT. Don't give up if you can't find the place, it's a bit hidden. read more

Went here for the first time this past weekend after eating dinner nearby. What a great place this is! It is compact but that doesn't detract from my 5 star review. Both the staff and décor are great, I found the atmosphere to be relaxing and upbeat. The bartender on duty on Sunday evening was so cute, friendly and professional. On this visit I just had wine but one of my friends had the apple martini. On my next visit I might order a dirty martini, my favorite. I am quite sure I would not be disappointed. If you are looking for a cozy spot to hang out and sip your favorite cocktail or glass of wine, this is it. Highly recommend. read more

I went here for NYE with my BFF and we had a great time! I live in the neighborhood, but have not really explored much. I am delighted that I found Marty's; it is such a beautiful, classy place where you do not have to worry about anything! I got a cosmopolitain, which I am pretty sure was completely vodka, so they certainly don't rip you off! I am straight, but I certainly did not feel out of place. This is a great neighborhood bar and I certainly look forward to going back! Thank you, staff, for making my 2013 ringing-in a low key, yet memorable experience! read more

I love love love this place! My boyfriend and I stumbled upon Marty's one Sunday afternoon. First things first, they pour their martinis to the brim so be warned! Secondly, they have a great selection of martinis, friendly staff and I love the decor! Lastly, and in my opinion most importantly, they give back. The Sunday that we went, they were donating 50% of the proceeds (between certain hours) to a local charity. So what did we do? Ordered LOTS of martinis, haha. Overall, this is a great neighborhood spot with a welcoming vibe and delicious martinis. read more

An awesome little spot in Andersonville that could easily be missed if you don't look at the streets coming off of Clark. A great atmosphere and bustling most nights of the week. I have never had a bad martini here and they have such a great variety. Whether you come in for one drink or plan on spending the whole night here you are sure to have a good time. read more

I love Marty's. I walked in with my boyfriend and all the tables were taken except for one which had a "reserved" sign on it. One of the bartenders called me over and told me "see that table for two that says reserved, that has your name written all over it." We were taken care of from the moment we walked in until we were the last two going out the front door. The drinks were perfect. My standard gauge for rating a bar is a french martini, and Marty's pours quite a delicious french. The chocolate hazelnut is also a must try. Our waiter was knowledgeable about his drinks, friendly, and fun. This bar *is* a little on the expensive side, but the couple extra dollars are so worth it! (Not that I paid anyway, the man picked up the tab on this one. Bring a date!) read more

Dessert, with a kick. Marty's is best in the summer months, when the outdoor patio is going strong. Now dog-friendly, you and Fido can sample from the enticing martini menu while watching the sidewalk traffic breeze by. The crowd, in typical Andersonville fashion, is a mixed bag of mostly 30 and 40 somethings, blending straight/gay and girls/boys. Winter months can be a little more cramped. The inside space is *small* so if you plan to be inside then arrive early, get a table, and definitely try the hazelnut chocolate martini. read more

This bar isn't what it used to be: quiet and sophisticated yet warm and friendly. Now, the noise level is left unchecked. I'm all for having a good time but there are some customers who are permitted to shriek and yell. I wish they would be reminded to keep it down. Sometimes it's hard to hear the person next to you. read more

I want this to be a 5 star review. I love the idea of this joint, and I really wish I could love it. But I merely like it. The atmosphere is great. I wouldn't recommend going unless you can get a seat, of which there are few, but this is a cozy, well-decorated bar. It's swank. They lose one star for making a lousy old fashioned. I mean lousy. The bartender actually asked me what it was. The guy was very nice, and in another bar it wouldn't be a big deal. However, in a joint like this, one that perpetrates like a cocktail lounge, old fashioneds should be old hat. They lose 1/2 star for their wine list. Better than most bars, but these are mostly crappy $10 bottles jazzed up with great stemware. They only lose 1/2 a star since there are a few good selections, and the concept is there. The list just needs tightening. The martinis are fantastic. I had a dry Belvedere martini here that was the best one I have ever had. So, it's a 3.5 star review. I am rounding down since I am more of a wine guy than a martini guy. Stick with the martinis and prosecco. read more

Marty's has been one of my favorite spots in Andersonville since I've lived in Chicago, and it has never disappointed me! It is ideal for a mid-week drink, or as your first stop for a night out. The atmosphere is perfect for a martini bar - cozy, good service, and a friendly crowd. They have a nice selection of martini's, and the bartenders are pretty skilled, without taking themselves too seriously. The drinks are on the pricier side, but it is well worth it (you definitely get a good bang for your buck). I have two warnings if you have never been before. First, the drinks are really strong (as a real martini should be)! A single large martini is enough to give an experienced drinker a nice buzz. Second, the bar is very small, and on the weekends it gets very crowded. So, if you have a problem with crowds, I recommend trying it out mid-week. Neither of these things have ever stopped me from enjoying myself! read more

Expertly crafted martinis, no matter your martini style. Very stylish ambiance, but a cozy atmosphere and a popular spot, so seating gets scarce as the night gets later. I got an extra dry three olive gin martini and my lord it was delicious. A friend got the chocolate hazelnut martini and it was like a glorious dessert. I think all martinis on menu $9, which is very reasonable. Excellent service. The waiter walked through the menu, came back to check on us, and could transport a very full martini glass to our table when all of his tables were empty. read more

It's tiny so be prepared for a tight fit "wink".... Bartenders are awesome & the martinis are yummm. read more

So I really like this place a lot when I need to have a strong cocktail and a good company. It's within walking distance for me and it's a perfect neighborhood watering hole. The bartenders are always polite and ready to concoct something strong. After a long week of work, this place was made for Fridays! Be careful because after one drink... let's just say after one you probably shouldn't be driving. Two drinks and I might ask you out. Okay, scratch that (half kidding). Anyway, this place has a great atmosphere and always feels like home. I'm certainly a fan. read more

Amazing martinis & great service!! They're strong, yet still have plenty of flavor. I'm a moderate drinker & I always seem to be content here after two drinks. Be warned, it's a small place & can get rather crowded, especially on weekends. In my opinion, it's actually best earlier in the week, but no matter how busy they get, the drinks are always good. If you sign up for their emails, you get occasional $5 coupons. They usually come in for that evening or the next day, but it always gives a good excuse to go out! During the warmer months, the patio pretty much doubles their space so that helps too!!! read more

Been here a handful of times ever since it opened. First off, the staff is amazing. Be prepared for be waited on hand and foot. The drinks, although expensive, are worth it. I'm a guy who can handle his liquor, and I'll tell you that one martini can work magic. It's a great place to start an evening off in Andersonville. The outdoor patio is one of my favorite hangouts in the summer. My only complaint is the size - you need to get there early to get a table, or you'll be crammed up by the bathroom trying to carefully sip your $13 drink. read more

Two drinks and you're on the floor. What's not to love. Also, great secluded outdoor seating in warm weather and decent waitstaff! read more

WOWZA! Are these martinis strong. 1 is really all you need which is so frustrating because I want to try them all. It's a small place with a large patio and it's probably my favorite martini bar in this city. Great staff & quality drinks. 10/10 will be back multiple times. read more

A couple days ago, Thursday, we visited Marty's Martini Bar. This was our first time here. We arrived as they opened. Miguel, was our bartender. We loved the decor, very upscale, very friendly, and some AMAZING martinis!! Miguel was very friendly, polite, and very professional with everyone! Quite obvious, Miguel is a favorite of the regular patrons. Marty's is like your neighborhood pub, with upscale and class!! At NO point did we feel like a new comer or stranger!! Our drinks were FANTASTIC, with nothing held back! We thoroughly had a GREAT time, and I guarantee you when we are in Andersonville, Marty's is now on our list of "must stop in". We thank you for treating us like family, and for a FANTASTIC evening!! See you soon!! read more

Delicious martinis and great friendly staff and very nice atmosphere , no tvs and very intimate A definite go to when friends and family in town read more

best martini in Chicago Don't drink more than 2 cause you will be on the floor small space - get there early or expect people to brush up against you all night professional staff (not friendly but professional - they take what they do seriously) Strawberry Shortcake - perfect blend of cream and alcohol - so good Dirty Bird - I can eat those stuffed olives all night Great place for a drink or two before going out in the Andersonville neighborhood read more

Went to this bar for the first time this weekend and had an awesome time. They serve up all the traditional martinis - cosmo, dirty martini and french 75. They also serve some not so traditional ones i.e. peppermint patty. The latter is not my style but it's awesome that they have it as an option. Service was great, my friend I went with didn't enjoy what he ordered so they tossed it out and made him another one with no issue or complaint. Glad I tried this place out because I will definitely be back. read more

I had never been to Marty's before yesterday. We were out and about in Andersonville and wanted a drink. We peaked in the door at Marty's and saw that it was crowded. Just as we were turning away, a waiter/host opened the door and invited us in. He put us at a reserved table and our classy eve began. The service was terrific. The martinis were large and great. I've had plenty of dirty martinis in my life, and these were well made. When others say that the large martinis are large, they're not kidding. These are the biggest martinis I've ever seen. I can't recommend this place enough if you're looking for a terrific atmosphere and a martini. read more

I have been coming to this martini hot spot for years often with friends. The menu, drinks and decor remain mostly unchanged but the service has not. Lately there has only been one employee for the whole place even on weekends. This past Friday we managed to score a table but it was littered with empty dirty martini glasses and wet napkins. The only way it was going to get cleared and cleaned was if we did it ourselves. The bartender was too busy making drinks and was struggling to keep up with that alone. There are used to be a wait person on most busy nights but it seems that this is a thing of the past. Now you must order your drinks at the bar and carry them through the crowd gently without spilling to your table. There is a pitcher of ice water at the end of the bar if you desire any but it is self service. Part of the draw for going to this establishment was the interaction with the staff, whether it be just a smile, quick conversation or a little bit of dry witty humor. I do hope the service gets better soon otherwise I would be happy to spend $14 for a better martini that is made with premium booze, instead of well, at nearby establishment. read more

Cute place and a great place to catch up with friends. The martini comes in two sizes and the large is twice the size, all the chocolate martini are made to perfection! read more

I had no idea this was here until a friend from out of town took me (a regular stop of his)--the tourists always seem to know better. Crowded on a Saturday night but not impossible, and the service was quite good for a bar with frequent water fills and attention from the well dressed wait staff. Nice list of martini's, particularly of the dessert type, and I tried the "Funky Monkey" which was very strong and like a good martini took a good 30 minutes to sip. Frenchy ambiance with a much classier feel than most of the bars around, I think i found a new favorite stop in Aville! read more

This is one of those places I always think "we should go to more often." But honestly, on our budget, it's cheaper to go elsewhere or go home. But when we do go, watch out: Two of their giant martinis and game's over. It's great in the summertime when the patio is open, otherwise, as others have said, it's a small bar. Friendly, relaxed, creative, yummy, big drinks. read more

Little John is my new favorite bartender/server! I love when I can't decide to order and the server says trust me... Cute place...good drinks...great service. What more could you ask for? read more

Such a fun place! Marty's Martini Bar is very small but cozy and the drinks were great. I went with a few of my friends and we had so much fun and we loved our drinks. The bartender was also very friendly and funny, and the crowd was nice. So glad I found this little gem, definitely pass by if you're in the area. The Tickled Pink martini was my favorite! read more

Marty's Martini Bar - Gay Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Small place, but the martinis are large and delicious. Very cozy and warm, dark. You can tell they know how to make drinks - they have a lot of options for dinner or after dinner martinis. You won't even need more than one to really feel the alcohol. read more

What a sweet discovery! Lovely space, delicious and innovative cocktails, and great service. The inside space is pretty small and when crowded it's a tight squeeze in the back getting to the washrooms, but the patio handles the overspill quite nicely. Can't wait to go back! read more

Great bar if you like the Smokey Vibe (without smoke). Visiting from Berkeley, CA and I've been here twice.

I went there last night (Friday) at about midnight. It was mostly 35+ which I don't mind, but it was SO crowded you literally had to push yourself through people (groping). Got to a small opening in the back. Ordered 2 large martinis ($14 a pop!). Turns out they make these large martinis with cheap vodka. It was the worst cosmo I've ever had. I had to chug it to not waste the alcohol. My friend's French Martini was also unpleasant. I didn't get the whole scene either. Big money for no swank. No thanks. read more