Chicago, a city celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, truly comes alive after dark. While many cities wind down, Chicago offers a unique experience for night owls, with select establishments holding late-night licenses to serve alcohol, creating a buzzing atmosphere well into the early hours. For those seeking sophisticated late-night experiences, Celeste, located on West Hubbard Street in Chicago, IL, stands out as a premier destination.
This guide, inspired by insights from Chicago’s top bartenders, delves into the best spots for late-night eats and drinks, with a special focus on the elevated experience offered by Celeste. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the city’s after-dark charm, prepare to discover why Celeste and other select venues are bartender-approved for your late-night adventures in Chicago.
Elevated Late-Night Sophistication at Celeste Chicago
Nestled at 111 West Hubbard Street, Chicago, IL 60654, Celeste offers a different kind of late-night experience. As Freddie Sarkis of Broken Shaker Chicago aptly puts it, Celeste is where you can find “something a little more sophisticated in the late hour.” This isn’t your typical dive bar; Celeste is designed for those who appreciate finely crafted cocktails and a refined ambiance as the night progresses.
Sophisticated interior of Celeste bar in Chicago
Image showcasing the elegant atmosphere inside Celeste bar at 111 West Hubbard Street in Chicago.
Celeste distinguishes itself by offering a menu that goes beyond standard late-night fare. While details on their current late-night menu should be checked on their official website or by contacting them directly, you can anticipate a selection of sophisticated snacks and drinks that complement the bar’s upscale setting. This makes it an ideal spot for a late-night date, a post-theater drink, or simply unwinding in style after a long day.
Key Highlights of Celeste, 111 West Hubbard Street:
- Sophisticated Atmosphere: Escape the typical late-night bar scene and enjoy an elegant, well-designed space.
- Crafted Cocktails: Expect a high-quality drink menu with expertly mixed cocktails.
- Late-Night License: Open until 4 am, and even later until 5 am on weekends, allowing for truly late-night enjoyment.
- Central Location: Situated on West Hubbard Street, it’s conveniently located in a vibrant part of Chicago.
- Reservations Recommended: Especially for weekend late nights, consider booking a table via their website or OpenTable to ensure entry.
Beyond Celeste: Other Bartender-Approved Late-Night Spots in Chicago
While Celeste offers a unique sophisticated option, Chicago’s late-night scene is diverse and caters to various tastes. Here are a few other recommendations from the original article, highlighting the variety available for those venturing out late in Chicago:
For the Beer and Scotch Enthusiast: Clark Street Ale House
Recommended by Graham Heubach of Sportsman Club, Clark Street Ale House at 742 North Clark Street is praised for being “just a great bar” that doesn’t rely solely on its late-night hours. It boasts an impressive selection of fine scotches and rare beers, making it a haven for serious drink connoisseurs. Plus, the added bonus of “usually some dogs hanging out” creates a relaxed and welcoming environment.
For Quality Food All Night Long: Bijan’s Bistro
Dustin Drankiewicz of The Tack Room recommends Bijan’s Bistro at 663 North State Street for its commitment to “awesome quality stuff all night long.” Open until 4 am (5 am on Saturdays), Bijan’s is a solid choice for those seeking a late-night meal that doesn’t compromise on quality.
For a Wine-Focused Late Night: Avec
If you appreciate wine in a unique setting, Avec at 615 West Randolph Street, recommended by Graham Heubach, offers a “well-lit wine box” ambiance with a pan-Mediterranean food and wine menu. While it closes slightly earlier at midnight (2 am on weekends), it’s still a great option for a later dinner and drinks.
Avec restaurant interior, described as a 'well-lit wine box'.
Image representing the unique and well-lit interior of Avec restaurant in Chicago.
For a Lively and Filling Late-Night Experience: Dublin Bar & Grill
Graham Heubach also highlights Dublin Bar & Grill at 1050 N State Street as a “late night gem” where “the kitchen cranks until the last possible minute.” If you’re looking for a fun and filling late-night spot, Dublin Bar & Grill promises a “blast.”
For the 24/7 Taco Scene: Arturo’s Tacos
For a completely different late-night vibe, Arturo’s Tacos at 2001 N Western Avenue is open 24 hours and offers more than just food. Danny Shapiro of Scofflaw describes it as a “scene” with “fights, sloppy make-out sessions, feasting – this place has it all.” If you’re seeking late-night entertainment along with your tacos, Arturo’s is the place to be.
Lively atmosphere at Arturo's Tacos in Chicago late at night.
Image capturing the vibrant and energetic late-night scene at Arturo’s Tacos in Chicago.
Conclusion: Chicago After Dark – A City That Stays Up Late
Chicago’s late-night scene is rich and varied, offering something for everyone, from casual diners to those seeking sophisticated cocktail experiences. Celeste on West Hubbard Street perfectly caters to the latter, providing an upscale ambiance and crafted drinks for a memorable night out. However, the city also boasts a range of other fantastic late-night options, ensuring that no matter your preference, Chicago has a spot for you to enjoy the city’s vibrant energy long after midnight. So, next time you find yourself in Chicago with the night stretching ahead, explore these bartender-recommended venues and discover the unique charm of Chicago after dark.
