Welcome to The Alderman
Nestled within Pilsen Yards, "The Alderman" is a hidden gem that captivates cocktail enthusiasts with its intimate, dimly lit ambiance. This speakeasy-inspired bar elevates mixology into a true art form, showcasing a frequently changing menu that features sophisticated drinks infused with creative twists. Patrons rave about the passionate bartenders who craft unique concoctions, such as the seasonal “Chopped and Screwed” and the robust “Every Time It Rains.” With its cozy layout and vibrant atmosphere, The Alderman promises a memorable experience for those seeking quality cocktails in a relaxed setting, making it a perfect spot for a night out or a romantic date.
-
1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States Hotline: +1 312-243-2410
Welcome to the enchanting world of The Alderman, a hidden gem nestled within the vibrant Pilsen Yards in Chicago. This intimate cocktail bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it offers a unique blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and a cozy atmosphere that invites relaxation and connection.
Located at 1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608, The Alderman is renowned for its superb mixology. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, the cocktail menu changes frequently, providing a refreshing experience with each visit. Some standout selections include the intriguing Chopped and Screwed, the bold Smokey Old Fashioned, and the robust Every Time It Rains, each crafted with care and precision by talented bartenders passionate about their art.
- Ambiance: The bar boasts a dimly lit space that exudes a speakeasy vibe, featuring cozy booths and chic decor that encourages intimate conversations.
- Service: Guests rave about the attentive service, although it’s good to come prepared to be patient, as it’s primarily run by bartenders dedicated to providing a quality experience.
- Value: While not the cheapest option in town, patrons find that the exquisite cocktails and inviting environment make it worth every penny.
Reviews from satisfied customers reflect the essence of The Alderman. Carlyle Bouchard captured the charm of the bar, noting the delightful service even when their original plans were disrupted. Many echo the sentiment that each cocktail is sophisticated and well-balanced, showcasing the bartenders' dedication to their craft.
Moreover, the minimal yet impressive cocktail menu allows for a focused exploration of flavors without overwhelming choices, ensuring that every sip tells a story. As Emily Doll put it, their evolving offerings are not only fantastic but make The Alderman a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts. Guests have discovered that the quality of drinks paired with the cozy setting makes for an ideal evening out.
If you're searching for a night of extraordinary cocktails in a laid-back setting, The Alderman is your go-to destination. Just remember to make a reservation, as its intimate size lends to its charm but can fill up quickly. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, embarking on a date night, or simply unwinding with friends, this local gem promises an unforgettable experience.
For inquiries, reach out at +1 312-243-2410. Embrace the allure of The Alderman and embark on a cocktail journey that delights the senses!
I had made a reservation at The Alderman after hearing fabulous things about about it from a friend who lives nearby. Upon arrival, my party learned there was an error where the speakeasy was closed for a private event, but the booking software didn’t register the block, so we were unable to enter. The owner of Pilsen Yards - a restaurant I also recommend - was there and offered a delightful experience to make up for the mistake. He seated us at a booth in the main restaurant and chatted with us for a while. He brought us the speakeasy cocktail menu and told us they’d bring us a comped round of drinks from The Alderman. We were then greeted by the Alderman bartender who walked us through the menu and gave us a refreshing sipper to start. The drinks we both had were fabulous. I had a seasonal drink, the Chopped and Screwed. The flower inside the ice cube was a wonderful way to give the drink’s appearance some flare. While we were disappointed to not be able to sit in the speakeasy, things happen! The service and drinks absolutely made up for the whole thing. Couldn’t recommend both Pilsen Yards and the Alderman more. Thank you to you and your staff, John!
The Alderman is just a good bar. Nothing too extravagant and low-key enough to hold a conversation without too much hassle. Service is good but you have to be patient, since there are no other servers besides the bartender. Just as a heads up, they don't offer food and their cocktail menu is kind of small.
This establishment has set my bar for top-notch cocktail experiences. Just go in and try everything is all i can say. Can tell the workers are passionate about mixology and crafting unique cocktails. This place is a 10/10 & glad it’s local.
I love craft cocktails and the alderman was very worth it. Each cocktail was very sophisticated, strong and delicious. Sven gave us welcome cocktail shots and was friendly throughout the experience.
This frequently changing menu is always fantastic and the service is always top notch. One of my all time favorite cocktail bars anywhere. Always bring guests here.
Highly recommend visiting this super lowkey and intimate bar. It’s inside of Pilsen Yards. There’s about 6 tables and 4 stools at the bar. It’s dimly lit cozy space that’s aesthetically pleasing with chandeliers and a mix of black art. The drinks are not your traditional cocktails, they come with a twist that makes them unique. It’s a good place to try something different. They also play a good mix of r&b, soul, funk, and electronic.
The Alderman is a hidden gem if you’re into craft cocktails and a speakeasy vibe. Tucked inside Pilsen Yards, it’s got that low-lit, intimate feel that makes for a perfect date night or chill night out. Spent around 50 for two drinks and a small bite—had the Smokey Old Fashioned (18) and a Paper Plane (16), both perfectly balanced. The bartenders actually care about their craft, and you can tell from the quality of the drinks. Not the cheapest spot, but if you want a well-made cocktail in a cool, relaxed setting, this is it. Definitely coming back.
Ordered the “Every time it Rains” drink. The name is catchy and I can relate. The drink was definitely strong, it reminded me of strong coffee. I asked the bartender and he said it was the Haitian rum that gave it that taste. The overall setup is cool and lowkey. Reservations are strongly suggested because it’s a small spot. This place is cool to go on a date, or to catch up with friends. I would give this place another chance, and just try another drink.