The Whistler Cocktail Bar / Live Music Venue / Lounge

Logan Square, Chicago –

Free nightly concerts and an intense but unpretentious dedication to mixology distinguish The Whistler, a small bar popular with a young crowd of hipsters, musicians, and connoisseurs of classic cocktails.

Once patrons pass through the door hidden in the storefront façade – which doubles as a gallery featuring an ever-changing selection of works by local artists – they’ll find themselves in a dim room full of creative couples chatting over $2 cans of PBR at candlelit tables.

Tattooed students settle in at the small wooden bar to discuss the latest musical acts and peruse the list of craft cocktails created by owner Paul McGee – a well-known presence on the city’s cocktailing scene – who can often be found whipping up intricate egg white and Aquavit drinks like the Viking Funeral or the sweet gin and honey Busy Bee.

Once sufficiently sauced, music lovers crowd close to the stage in back to check out the night’s entertainment, which can range from laid-back solo acoustic shows to dance-inducing DJ sets, with a wide variety of indie rock, blues, and soul in between.

Anyone looking for a slightly quieter vibe early in the week can escape to the quaint garden patio, though even that space is packed to the rafters once Thursday rolls around.

Eclectic and artsy, The Whistler is a humming hangout whether patrons are in the mood for classy cocktails and conversation or cheap beer and loud music.