Choose your location
Mon / Jan 25
Party Earth Review The Empty Bottle has been serving up $5 drink combos and live music seven nights a week since it first opened in 1992, featuring a jam-packed calendar of events ranging from jazz and rock to experimental noise. The venue... ... read full review
1035 North Western Avenue
Chicago, IL 60622
Blue Line: Division
773-276-3600
M–W 5pm–2am, Th–F 3pm–2am, Sa noon–3am, Su noon–2am
Ukrainian Village, Chicago –
The Empty Bottle has been serving up $5 drink combos and live music seven nights a week since it first opened in 1992, featuring a jam-packed calendar of events ranging from jazz and rock to experimental noise.
The venue’s deceptively small exterior hides a spacious three-roomed space decked out in concert posters and packed with laid-back hipsters, artists, and musicians.
Earlier in the evening, patrons hang out at the arcade games, shoot pool, or peruse the alternative and indie EPs for sale at the merchandise table up front, or bop down a short hallway to the performance area adorned by local art, holiday lights, and a Chicago Police cruiser door hung above the emergency exit.
Leather-clad rockers and music lovers chill at the bar downing rounds of cheap liquor combos and local brews, but once the music begins, all eyes turn to the stage where an eclectic lineup of acts playing indie, reggae, electro-pop, and everything in between get the crowd nodding along energetically.
A no-frills dive with nightly music and deals throughout the year, it’s no wonder music lovers of all kind stay to finish their drinks at The Empty Bottle.
A mix of amiable indie rockers, casual hipsters, music snobs, and local artists and musicians, early 20s to mid-30s.
Live music nightly from reggae to psychedelic, but trending toward indie rock. Pool table, pinball, photo booth, and three arcade machines. Check website for schedule of events.
Chips and peanuts. Patrons can order food from Bite Café next door. Cash only. ATM on site.
Cover charge varies by event, usually $5–$20. Chips and peanuts $1. Beer $2.50–$8, wine $4.75–$8, cocktails $4–$6, shots $4–$6.
Hipster/indie rocker casual: frayed skinny jeans, flannel button-downs, black hoodies, graphic t-shirts, plaid shirts, studded belts, decorative scarves, knit sweaters.
Thursday through Saturday evenings when the venue usually books the most popular acts.
Right next door is Bite Café (1035 North Western Avenue), which is under the same ownership and serves a full American menu.
The Empty Bottle User Reviews