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Fri / Apr 9
Party Earth Review 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... ... read full review
2421 North Milwaukee Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647
Blue Line: California
773-227-3530
M–Th 6pm–2am, F–Sa 5pm–3am, Su 5pm–2am
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.
Young crowd of Logan Square hipsters, tattooed artsy types, easygoing couples, and laid-back music lovers, early 20s to early 30s.
Live music or DJ sets nightly featuring a range of acoustic, indie rock, soul, jazz, and electronic styles. Sets normally begin between 6:30pm and 10pm. Check venue calendar for latest lineup.
No food. Owner and head mixologist Paul McGee offers cocktail classes throughout the year.
Beer $2–$8, wine $6–$7, specialty cocktails $8. Cocktail classes $95/person. Records/CDs $2–$12.
Hipster casual: skinny jeans, high-waisted skirts, plaid, flannel, band t-shirts, strappy sandals, Vans.
Whenever there’s a band of interest, though the venue is most crowded Thursdays through Saturdays, when there can be a half-hour wait to get in.
Boiler Room (2210 North California Avenue) serves up thick slices of New York-style pizza, perfect for soaking up The Whistler’s cocktails.
The Whistler User Reviews