Last call in Chicago varies depending on the day of the week and the type of establishment you are visiting. In general, most regular license bars in Chicago have a last call at 2 a.m. from Sunday to Friday, and at 3 a.m. on Saturday. However, it's important to note that these times can vary slightly depending on the municipality within Illinois.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to experience the nightlife in Chicago firsthand. I have found that the 2 a.m. last call during the week allows for a reasonable amount of time to enjoy a few drinks and socialize with friends after work. It also provides an opportunity for bartenders and staff to clean up and close down the establishment in a timely manner.
On the weekends, the extended last call until 3 a.m. on Saturday allows for a bit more flexibility and a chance to enjoy a longer night out. It's always fun to see the energy and excitement in the bars and clubs during those extra hours on the weekend. However, it's important to drink responsibly and ensure you have a safe way to get home.
It's worth mentioning that some bars and clubs may have different operating hours and last call times based on their specific licenses. For example, certain establishments may have a late-night license that allows them to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. This is more common in areas with a vibrant nightlife scene, such as downtown Chicago or popular neighborhoods like Wicker Park or River North.
In addition to regular bars, Chicago is also known for its craft breweries and brewpubs. These establishments often have their own unique operating hours and last call times. Some breweries may close their taprooms earlier, around 10 p.m. or 11 p.m., while others may have later hours, especially on weekends. It's always a good idea to check the specific hours of the brewery or brewpub you plan to visit to make sure you don't miss out on any delicious beers.
To summarize, last call in Chicago for regular license bars is typically at 2 a.m. from Sunday to Friday, and at 3 a.m. on Saturday. However, it's important to note that these times can vary slightly depending on the municipality within Illinois. Craft breweries and brewpubs may have their own unique operating hours and last call times, so it's always a good idea to check before visiting. Enjoy your night out in the vibrant city of Chicago, but remember to drink responsibly and have a safe way to get home.