If you don’t want the party to end at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, we’ve compiled our favorite no cover, late night, no-reservation-needed options for those of you who won’t be ready for bed until at least 4 a.m.
The Redhead Piano Bar
It’s common knowledge that most people, when drunk, believe they have great singing voices. So, if you’ve had a few too many, head over to this River North spot to add your harmonies to a rendition of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man.” Open ’til 4 a.m. 16 W. Ontario St. 312-640-1000.
Clark’s
If it’s the middle of the night and you can’t get chocolate-chip pancakes, omelets and burgers off your mind, head over to this 24-hour diner. They stop serving drinks at 1:30 a.m., so make sure you’re ready to sober up if this is your last stop. 930 W. Belmont Ave. 773-348-5988.
Iggy’s
Grab something to eat, pick your poison from a menu of 30 martinis or just relax in this restaurant-bar-lounge. We recommend the Dreamsicle martini, which tastes like a blend of those orange popsicles from your childhood mixed with a large quantity of alcohol. The low lighting and friendly jukebox atmosphere make this a great place to finish up your night. Open ’til 4 a.m. 700 N. Milwaukee Ave. 312-829-4449.
Lakeview Lounge
At this rowdy bar, the party will get louder as the night turns to morning. Don’t bother dressing up: Fancy clothes and complicated cocktails are out at this grungy dive. You’re safe from Britney Spears here–the soundtrack consists largely of country music, blues and oldies. Open ’til 4 a.m. 5110 N. Broadway. 773-769-0994.
Old Town Ale House
You’ll be given a party hat and noisemakers as you enter this neighborhood bar, but the vibe at this dive is much more laid-back than the usual New Year’s Eve celebrations. This is the sort of bar where you’ll find books scattered about, and it’s not uncommon to see people reading. Anyone looking to hook up should look elsewhere. Open ’til 4 a.m. 219 W. North Ave. 312-944-7020.
Melrose Restaurant and The Closet
Choose an omelet from among 20 options at 24-hour diner Melrose before walking a block to The Closet to continue your partying. It’s a great place for lesbians, gays and gay-friendly folks looking for a loud night out in a small bar. Tunes by Cher and Whitney Houston are a sure bet, but the music is actually quite diverse and the drinks are strong. Open ’til 4 a.m. Melrose Restaurant, 3233 N. Broadway, 773-327-2060. The Closet, 3325 N. Broadway, 773-477-8533.
South Loop Club
Be prepared to discuss the latest sports news–even at 3 a.m.–at this popular sports bar. Ribs, burgers, pizza, tacos and wings will be available all night, along with an assortment of beers on tap and in the bottle. Open ’til 4 a.m. 701 S. State St. 312-427-2787.
