The Alderman has been on my list for quite some time now. I am so excited that I finally was able to snag a reservation and check it out. If you didn't know, it is located inside of Pilsen Yards. It's a nice small intimate setting, but I loved every single detail about it. If you are not able to sit at the booth, there are four seats at the bar where you can still enjoy the experience. The ambience was amazing. It was nice and cozy, dimly lit, candles everywhere kind of gave a romantic feel in a sense. The art on the wall was like no other. Very bold, vibrant, and told a story. The selection of music was great, It was a vibe the entire time. My bartender's name was Scotty. Scotty was everything. He was so knowledgeable about the drinks. He had amazing suggestions and he could even put a twist on it if you allowed him. He's also very passionate about his craft and it shows once you a taste of the drinks that he prepared. I had such an amazing time. Not only did he prepare a great drink, but he was so personable and checked on everybody throughout the night and made sure everyone was doing OK. I loved it there. I cannot wait to go back another day. This is hands-down one of my favorite speakeasies. What a hidden gem. read more

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Beautiful intimate speakeasy with amazing cocktails it's hard to pick which one to start with! The service was wonderful and we really enjoyed our time. I ordered the petal pusher cocktail which was delicious! read more

Looking for a sexy spot? You found it here! Come in and get some fire drinks that's all you'll find though but you know what that's all you need. Enjoy the atmosphere the music the people lovely get it in. read more

Hidden speakeasy inside the restaurant. We didn't have a reservation and our party was rather large, with five of us. Nonetheless we were given a table to fit us all. Drinks were really creative. Bartenders made recommendations. Do yourself a favor and order Gone Before Sunrise. The best drink out of all the different ones we tried. read more

The Alderman - Gone Before Sunrise - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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TLDR: How do I say "My home away from home" without sounding like an alcoholic? Okay, so their menu changed and they took Sichuan Panda off their menu!!! *cue the sesame oil tears streaming down my face*. BUT fear not because Roger has created something EVEN BETTER to replace it. It's called Eastern Standard Time. Please, give it a try. It's refreshing with a hint of umami. I'm a die-hard savory cocktail person, so I also tried their Girl Dinner, and while Charlie is like Rain Man genius when it comes to cocktails, this was too grassy/earthy for me. If you're a fan of green juices (or the earthiness of beets), this is up your alley. I thought it was a really cool concept, and the port wine sidecar definitely helped but, ultimately, this was not my favorite lol. Lost in Translation was like a liquid biscuit! It was a very desserty drink, which is exactly the kind of cocktail that my partner loves, so it was a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the taro root was well-balanced with the refreshing citrus aftertaste--and quite boozy because of the shochu and mezcal! I almost wanted to add boba to it to make it a meal. It's always so hard to come here for ONE drink--especially when they've just changed their menu! It would've been rude not to try at least 3. It was so hard to leave, and had it not been for our dinner resy, we would've stayed for more. We'll be back soon! read more

The Alderman - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Highly recommend! Such a great spot. The dim lighting with the dark wood decor is very intimate, warm, and cozy. Perfect for a date who you want to get to know more/want more one on one time. The customer service is top notch and so are the drinks. My best recommendation is to ask the staff their favorites or something that fits your profile. They have a lot of good options. read more

The Alderman - Chopped and screwed - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This cocktail bar was amazing! The decor, the music, everything was perfect. The bartenders Roger and Ceasar were perfect, they were so knowledgeable about the various types of liquors and the ingredients that went into each cocktail it was so insightful and refreshing! I had a variety of handcrafted cocktails from the Gone before sunrise to the Glass Garden Milk Punch, they were all great! I would recommend this spot to anyone! read more

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As you all know, I am a speakeasy, cocktail joint kinda guy and the Alderman has been on my list to hit-up for about a year now. Me and a friend stopped by on a recent Friday evening to take in some good cocktails and vibes. Alderman is located within the very popular Pilsen Yards restaurant on 18th St and reservations can be made via Open Table. Just an FYI, parking is hell over here so drive at your own risk...Uber or public trans would be your best bet. Once seated, they provided us with a very sweet, complimentary welcome drink. Tasty but sweet! Menu looked good with so many interesting cocktails. Im a mezcal lover so the Chopped & Screwed was very much recommended by the cool server dudes we had. The cocktail includes italian red bitters, genepy, lemon myrtle and an ice ball with a flower in it...very good! I also had the Mezcal Negroni which was pretty good. My friend got the daiquiri and it was much different than your usual daiquiri...very good! My only issue here is that everything is batched...I prefer my drinks to be made fresh, but they make it work. They seemed to not be able to make a sidecar for her as she requested...all good though. Music can be loud but they place some dope joints (Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, etc...) Love the vibe and the lit candles as it sets a very sexy mood. I would definitely come back and try again. Good for dates, groups and solo drinking. read more

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This place was really cool. It was really a hole in the wall. Very small space and the decor was classy and swanky. The drinks were very unique and tasty. Service was great as well. The ingredients were very different and you don't see many of them everywhere. Would definitely go back. read more

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The Alderman nestled in Pilsen Yards is a dimly lit intimate cocktail bar with a breadth of international flairs to original cocktails. The owner is passionate and extremely friendly. Highly recommend you try this place out! read more

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I have been to the Alderman several times now and I am never disappointed. The drinks all have creative spins whether it's a classic or seasonal cocktail. The bartenders are very friendly and accommodating and are happy to walk you through the menu. You are always greeted with a small welcome drink which is a nice element. The entire bar smells amazing and is overall just a really elevated experience. I love this spot! read more

The Alderman - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I had previously tried getting reservations here in the past, but had been unsuccessful. This bar has limited seating and you ideally should try to book a reservation here at least a few days in advance if possible. My husband and I had planned to be in the area for dinner, so we decided to also book a reservation here for an after-dinner drink. Soon after we arrived, we were brought to our seats at the bar. The welcome drink was a nice way to start the experience. We both enjoyed the opportunity to speak directly to the owner of the bar and another bartender. Several cocktails caught my eye, but I stuck with whiskey focused cocktails during my visit. The Whimsy Old Fashioned, Private Label Old Fashioned, Trifecta, and Raised by Wolves were all outstanding. The menu also includes several other cocktails that feature rum, gin, sake, cognac, etc. Most cocktails were priced around $16 and felt fairly priced. read more

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Ambiance was very cool and moody. We received welcome cocktail which I enjoyed more than the cocktail I ordered. read more

The Alderman - Welcome cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is one of those places that feels so sceney and you kind of feel cool just being there? It is a tiny closet of a bar within Pilsen yards and it gives "this place is cooler and better than you" Granted, I did feel pretty cool while I was in there. The cocktails are definitely expensive, but typical for any nice cocktail bar. The drinks were very good and the service was impeccable. This is a really nice date place and seems different than a lot of the other Pilsen bars. Definitely worth checking out if you're into the speakeasy and quality crafted cocktail vibe. read more

Perfect night cap after a good dinner at the connected restaurant. Nice vibe, small, dim and intimate. Great service and excellent cocktails, reservations recommended. My whiskey cocktail came with a marshmallow that the waiter roasted at the table, it was so delicious I asked for a 2nd one. I will definitely return. read more

The Alderman - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Place is hidden within another restaurant which gives off that unique experience. As you can see from the interior it is a very sort of intimate close setting where you can really interact with the bartender. Let me say that the bartender we had provided top notch service, giving the best recommendations (he literally created the menu). Every drink we had was completely incomparable to a normal bar. One drink was the sichuan panda which had Sichuan peppercorn and sesame oil in it. Now at first that did not sound right to me but it actually works! For the purple pisco sour, there was a nice foam on top that added to the sweetness. Near the end the bartender gave us complimentary tequila shots and felt like I was conversing with a long life friend even though we only just met. A plus is the music as well. Felt that the tunes really matched the environment of the place! read more

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This was such a fun bar! It's definitely a sexy, date bar inside of Pilsen Yards. The host walked us in and gave us a run through the bar and the menu. The bar tender then came with complimentary welcome drinks and guided us through the menu again, letting us know he can also go off script. I went with the Indienne and my friend got the Paul's Walls. However, they were low on ingredients for his drink so they gave him a complimentary bit which he did not enjoy. He then Went with their interpretation of a gin a tonic which was interesting and tasty! My cocktail was also delicious and not what I expected. I would definitely return and try more. read more

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My favorite speakeasy in Chicago. Hidden inside of Pilsen Yards, this place is truly intimate and gives off a very old school vibe. The bartenders here are some of the friendliest I've ever come across! Amazing drinks read more

The Alderman - Chopped and screwed and purple pisco sour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I don't write very many reviews. Laziness mainly. I had to about The Alderman though. My wife and I came in last Saturday (Jan 11th). We didn't have a reservation but we figured we'd give it a shot. A very kind host let us know they didn't have any tables open for an hour. HOWEVER, he'd take a look and see if he can squeeze us in. (He squoze us in) He tells us they're expecting a resy in about 30 min so it's enough time for a round. We're in. We're given a welcome cocktail and greeted by two really dope bartenders. That first round (and 2nd and 3rd) were FANTASTIC and we went to our reservation at Mariscos San Pedro nice and lubricated. The ambience is great, music is excellent. 10/10 would recommend bringing a date here (or a homie or like a group of 4) If you've read all of this, first of all, thanks! But you might be wondering "3 rounds, he said they'd only have time for 1?!" Some dope decided to no-show their reservation. So we got the full experience. :) (for real though. Make a reservation and honor it.) read more

Best cocktail bar in the city. Cozy and yet classy, elegant but not snobby. Bartenders are so good they match the excellence of the drinks, which are creative, tasty, and have plenty of plenty of breadth. With making a reservation for read more

Crowded, but with a good atmosphere. But given all the choices in this amazing city, this doesn't stand out as being one of the best. The food is OK. The area is not great. But hey, there's some history to this place, so that makes it somewhat worth it. read more

The alderman was wonderful. Our server let us know about the upcoming fall menu and I definitely plan to return soon to try the new menu items. Such a cool speakeasy. Great for date night, very intimate and romantic. read more

Came here on cinco de mayo and if you're not aware already - The Alderman is inside of Pilsen Yards which is (in my opinion) one of the busiest restaurants in Pilsen. This night of course it was very busy so when we got in we did wait for about 10min before being seated- I do believe they forgot to check us in as well which may have been why we waited, but nonetheless this was on the host, not the alderman. We got taken in... it takes a minute for your eyes to adjust to the darkness within the space so be careful haha. It is very quaint but classy and chic. There's a smell in there that is some what overwhelming but we got used to it. The bartender was super nice and attentive. I asked him what was the sweetest and he told me the Elvis one, but that one had rum and pineapple and I wasn't in the Piña Colada mood but my friend went with it (with the red topping, pictured). I went with another (the name slips my mind) but he told me it wasn't that sweet, but he'd personally make it sweeter for me. Now THAT I appreciated. I knew that it was specifically made for me and that he uses separate ingredients rather than having things premade which a lot of bars are doing nowadays. He checked on us a couple times to make sure everything was good! Service 10/10! My drink had a foam and a surprise tasty boba at the end which I highly enjoyed! I would come here again so that my other friends can experience it! read more

A must visit speakeasy. The cocktails are all custom crafted and delicious. Not too sweet, and just the right amount of boozy that you expect in a cocktail. The space is intimate and inviting. The service was great and because we sat at the counter we got our own 1x1 experience with the bartender. Can't wait to go back later and see what the new menu has to offer. Highly recommend for a date night or small group. Not really the best option for large groups. Make sure you make a reservation in advance. read more

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I've been curious to check out The Alderman for awhile so when I saw an open reservation this past Friday, I booked instantly. My fiancé and I came after an evening out in Pilsen and it was the best night cap. You check in at Pilsen Yards (side note: never been here but will definitely be back to check out their space) and are led to a speak easy inspired bar. It's dimly lit and tiny which matches the vibe. The bartender was extremely friendly and went over his drinks with us. I had the Alderman Old Fashioned and really enjoyed it. My fiancé had the Gin & Tonic and found it a little too sweet. Since we're in our 30s and be out on a Friday night isn't what it used to be, we decided to stay for a drink. However, we can't wait to make our return to the Alderman and try more of the delicious drinks! read more

Very cool spot tucked away inside of Pilsen Yards. Was surprised to see a place like this in Pilsen. The drinks were awesome and honesty, appropriately priced. Very cool place to stop by for a special occasion. It's small and intimate, and I believe you need a reservation. Highly recommend. read more

The Alderman - Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a cool spot - The Alderman is a hidden and cozy gem, a speakeasy within Pilsen Yards. Reservations are required, and they're tough to get, as The Alderman can fit less than 20 people if I had to guess. This is a perfect place to end the night, in a dark bar lit by a light glow. They have an extensive list of cocktails, which we were excited to try, and need to go back when we haven't had so many drinks earlier in the night. My fiancé ordered the Alderman Old Fashioned, and he loved it (it was delicious from the sip I stole). I ordered the gin and tonic, and was expecting a twist on a standard gin and tonic. However, the drink I got, while delicious, was almost painfully sweet compared to what I expected to get. I would definitely go back and try other options, but I'd skip the gin and tonic and try a different invention from the list. Our bartender was also the creator of the space and menu, and we could certainly tell that this was a labor of love. We're excited to go back again soon and try more of the cocktails from their menu. read more

In the hypo-era of the speakeasy, I think The Alderman stands out as a chill version that still has that super-cool and fun vibe. Lance, the bartender, definitely makes it so. When the four of us were greeted by him, he ran down the menu for us, then went away to prepare our amuse bouche cocktail. He returned with them & they were delicious, and then I tried to order a drink he had told us he was out of. Typical me. My listening skills are muddled at best. But Lance stepped up and decided to concoct it with a substitute or two. That, my friend, is eloquent service. The drinks were good, the small space filled up yet wasn't too loud, and I would have returned each night I was in Chicago if I could, just for a kick-off cocktail to start each evening. Definitely go! read more

Honestly don't know if I've had a bad drink here yet?!? Since it is a real intimate area the bartenders have always been super attentive. If you're unsure of items on the menu, just let them know what you're feeling and what you typically like and let them work their magic. The dark atmosphere with chill music makes it the perfect place for a date. Reservation can be a little tricky to get but definitely worth it. read more

Really enjoyed the space. The bartender/server was good. Made some great recommendations. I love a good craft cocktail. It's a very small and quaint space. read more

The artwork & owner/bartender alone are worth the price of admission. I'd forgo the table closest to the entrance as many nosy/interested patrons will be sticking their heads inside wondering how to get inside. The welcome drink which is akin to a pineapple margarita should be put on the menu. We did mezcal shots with the owner as he told us of his accolades. It's a small but extremely cozy space that decorated with chandeliers & some wonderful/purchasable art. They'll also ask you several times if you're satisfied with your order. The whimsy old fashioned was funny with the toasted marshmallow. I don't think this place is anywhere near their full potential but you could do worse, a lot worse especially considering most of the drinks range around $15. This place is a must for any cocktail aficionado in the city of Chicago. read more

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The Alderman is a speakeasy-esque spot tucked away inside Pilsen Yards restaurant. My friends made a dinner res with a res at Alderman right after - reservations are highly recommended as there are limited seats at the Alderman. When you enter, you are met with charming, dark, swanky vibes. It feels intimate and cozy with one bartender servicing the entire spot. There is a menu that changes periodically, depending on whims of the brilliant creative Lance, chief mixologist. If the Sichuan Panda is on the menu, you have to order it. Those familiar with bajiu know its a generally gross tasting liquor. Somehow, Lance has transformed it with unexpected flavors (like sesame oil!?) and it really comes together as a perfect cocktail. If you don't drink, do not worry. Tell Lance the types of flavors you normally like and he'll spin you up something on the spot, custom made for you! I think he made me a version of the Pisco Sour and it was delightful - juicy and refreshing, like a strawberry jasmine tea. Not only are the beverages creative and tasty, the prices are SO reasonable given the quality and care put into each drink. Could not recommend this spot more and so thankful to the friends who made sure to bring us here because it'll be a must-visit when I'm in Chicago next. read more

Really small cool spot! Like REALLY small. You definitely want to have reservations. Came with my friend and we each got two drinks. The drinks are good and if you're not feeling a drink on the menu, you can always ask them to make you a drink based on your preferences. I had a super good gin-based cocktail that was fruity / sour, which I loved. The Purple Pisco Sour was pretty good too, but the highlight was definitely the customized drink I was made. read more

This place was very cozy and intimate. I love the small capacity, I think it fits the bar vibe perfectly. The drinks were amazing! Lance is a wizard with the cocktails. The purple pisco sour and the Elvis the gator were great, but the gin and tonic was my absolute favorite!!! Will definitely be back. read more

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This place is special. The vibe is so chill. The bartender was amazing and really chatted with us on a slow week night. We closed it down and we had a great time. The drinks are truly unique and amazing. read more

Roger was our bartender and he was friendly and knowledgeable. You could tell he was passionate about bartending because he knew so much about the alcohol and mixers. Everything he made was so good. The candles, the scent, the music....that was my first time and i will definitely be back. read more

The Alderman - Chopped and screwed - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Super dope speakeasy!!!!!! If you're looking for intimate, grown and sexy THIS PLACE IS FOR YOU. The spot has all black walls with beautiful wall art and huuuuuge mirrors that help the room look a tad bit bigger. This is a brief area for standing room, about 6 tables and a bar area that sits about 3 people. The bar is fully stocked with everythanggggg! Jeremy ushered my friend and I to our table and he did an excellent job excellent job explaining the concept of the Alderman, this place is a hidden jewel. Matt, the bartender made sure everything was perf with the cocktails and he his playlist was smooth and easy for the ears for everyone there! read more

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Kinda assholes. If you want to be exclusive fine but let me know in advance (add it to your google listing or hang up a sign?) so I can choose to skip. Instead you opted to embarrass me for thinking I could inquire as to grabbing a space at the bar. It was a Sunday afternoon with no one manning the door of the larger restaurant. Kids all over and a neon sign above the door of The Alderman lit up bright and inviting. Walked in. Spicy smell could be overwhelming - staff person said hello. Maybe 8 people sitting at 2 of the 4 tables. Asked if we could sit at the bar (party of 2) - staff person shamed us for coming in without checking in with him outside where he was not (no one was) told us to go back and check in with him. He did not follow. Kids were playing in the revolving door. This is Pilsen - The Alderman and its acolytes do not belong here. Left without waiting (once the idiot unsupervised child got out of the revolving door). So many better places in Pilsen. Pilsen Yards and The Alderman can fail as their previous incarnation did. read more

We really enjoyed our time here. Looking forward to coming back. The menu is crafted by the bartender himself so it was cool to hear about his thought process behind some drinks. Definitely recommend trying the Sichuan Panda. The ingredients are interesting, but it's a super unique drink that will confuse your senses (in a good way!). read more

If you are going to sell your establishment as some exclusive, reservation only, impossible to get a table cocktail lounge- speakeasy, the award winning professional making your drinks should be able to take the time to tell you the difference between the two Old Fashioned's on the menu. They should be able to describe which bourbons are being used, and not just say "Ummm, they're different!" and walk away when asked about the cocktails in which they are selling and making. Is a flaming marshmallow on a drink really creative, or is it a gimmick that you'd find at a Wrigleyville frat bar that twenty somethings on their first bachelorette party are slugging??? But hey, that's just me. I hear it tasted good, and that's really what matters, I guess. But, they also shouldn't try and sneak an extra charge of $30 bucks for "Dealer's Choice" on your bill when you only ordered two drinks and tell you that you don't need to read the bill (when obviously I do). Lance literally said, "Oh, you don't need to read it!" Then when asked what that specific charge is for, say, "It's for the first drinks you had." Oh, you mean the pineapple juice drink (that we didn't ask for) that you gave us and everyone else who sat down in the place? You mean that drink? And then have the audacity to say it must have been a "mistake on the bill" when you just said it was for some drinks I didn't even ask for or want?!? Nice try ripping us off, Lance. It was a good attempt. I love the idea behind the bar. Love the look, the vibe, the art, the music! The Alderman Old Fashioned was damn tasty (wish you could tell me more about it, you seem like you know your stuff). Love that you had a vision for a place and made it a reality. Not a lot of people can do that and have it be as cool as your place is attempting to be. But don't treat your paying customers like they don't know anything and shouldn't ask any questions about what they are paying for. We're here to have fun and enjoy some creative cocktails. The presentation and service is all a part of that experience! And definitely don't try to rip them off and claim it was a mistake when it was so apparent that it wasn't. It's great you won some awards (because trophy's are important), but service last night was far from award worthy. It was a joke, and so is Lance. read more