Clark St. Ale House

Clark Street Ale House is a classic barroom and beer garden in Chicago's River North neighborhood, housed in a building that has operated as a bar since the late 1800s — through Prohibition and beyond. Originally called Stop & Drink Liquor House, the bar took its current name in 1996; the vintage World War II-era neon sign that once marked the entrance remains on the exterior today. One of the original four craft-beer-focused pubs in Chicago, Clark Street Ale House maintains a rotating selection of approximately 125 craft beers — many from sought-after local and regional producers — alongside more than 300 whiskeys. The bar's approach centers on thoughtful curation without pretension, offering everything from approachable pours to premium selections. The classic interior opens to an outdoor beer garden patio, giving the venue two distinct settings for private gatherings and celebrations.