The recently passed law bringing happy hour back to the state has been a bonanza for Chicago bar and restaurants, and you can't walk more than a city block without seeing someone advertising the latest deal.
While the bill Governor Bruce Rauner signed has resumed happy hours across the city (and state) for the first time since 1989, there are a few caveats to know. Bars cannot offer drinks as prizes for games (sorry, trivia fans); you won't be getting two-for-one deals or unlimited drinks for a fixed price still (pay $25 at the door for two hours, for instance); oh, and nothing after 10 p.m.
That still leaves a lot of options for some after-work bargains. But which ones are actually worth your money? Here are four brand-new specials for affordable food and drink at some top Chicago restaurants—and when they're available. Happy happy houring.
The Izakaya at Momotaro
820 W. Lake St., West Loop
Head to the downstairs bar to eat and drink like a king, for less than $25. Choose two courses for $19 or three courses for $23, with options ranging from corned wagyu beef tongue to simmering asari clams. The price even includes a Tiger beer and a flavored shochu shot. Specialty cocktails and wine by the glass will also be half off during these two hours.
Available: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday
Nellcôte
833 W. Randolph St., West Loop
Take a seat at the bar or lounge and take your pick of any pizza and domestic beer for just $10—no catch. The pizza choices include margherita, lamb merguez, and roasted eggplant.
Available: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Umami Burger
1480 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wicker Park
Who doesn’t love a deal on burgers, fries, and drinks? Get three sliders for $9 and a side of thin cut truffle cheese fries for $3. Drink it down with a $3 draft beer, $6 glass of wine, or $7 specialty cocktail.
Available: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday
Oak + Char
217 W. Huron St., River North
Enjoy the same Prime Double Cheeseburger on the restaurant’s dinner menu for half the price—just $8. Pair it with a $2 High Life draft, $4 craft draft, or $6 house cocktail any day of the week.
Available: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily