The Irish in Chicago, IL

Chicago’s Irish community is one of the largest in the U.S., rooted in 19th-century immigration and still thriving today. Neighborhoods like Beverly and Bridgeport showcase deep Irish ties, while pubs such as Chief O’Neill’s and The Galway Arms keep the culture alive with music and camaraderie. The Irish American Heritage Center anchors the community year-round, and each March the city famously dyes the Chicago River green before hosting one of the world’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades.

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Butch McGuire's

20 W Division St

Butch McGuire borrowed a little money from his mother and opened his “world famous” saloon in 1961. The legendary bar corridor of Rush and Division was born. Butch had the perfect hang-out for local gold coast and old town singles, most of whom happened to be his friends. In fact, through cocktails and conversation, it is believed that over 10,000 marriages have resulted from encounters throughout the decades. Butch, “the unofficial mayor of Division street”, took an active part in the community and took a great interest in his employee’s lives. Butch was always proud to claim that hundreds of men and women had paid for some, if not all, of their educations while working at the saloon. Butch was also quite an advocate for women, being one of the first Chicago bar owners to hire female bartenders and managers. Back in the earlier days, only women were allowed a seat at the crowded bar, men would either give up their seats or be thrown out.

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Celtic Crossing Irish Pub

751 N Clark Street

At some “Irish” bars, the most they have in common with Ireland is Guinness on tap and cardboard shamrocks taped to windows. Not so here. You’ll find 13 beers on tap, mostly imports like Murphy’s, Newcastle, Guinness and Harp. A good crowd comes to listen and sometimes dance to live Irish music, but mainly people just socialize.

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Chief O'Neill's

3471 N Elston Ave

Chief O’Neill’s is the perfect Irish pub offering terrific food and classic Irish music. Shepherd’s pie, delicious meatloaf and fish and chips are served in an atmosphere that transports you to Ireland. Stop in for some great music and a delicious award-winning pint of Guinness.

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Clancy’s Pizza Pub

4624 W 103rd St

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Emerald Loop Bar & Grill

216 N Wabash Ave

Emerald Loop Bar & Grill blends the charm of an Irish pub with the energy of downtown Chicago. Enjoy hearty classics like corned beef sandwiches, fish and chips, and Irish nachos in a cozy, wood-accented setting. With a wide whiskey selection, lively atmosphere, and frequent live sports, it’s the perfect spot for a pint and a bite any day of the week.

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Fadó Irish Pub

100 W Grand Ave

Fadó Irish Pub brings the soul of Dublin straight to Chicago. Known for its perfectly poured Guinness, Fadó serves up elevated pub fare like boxty quesadillas, whiskey-glazed salmon, and classic fish and chips. Whether you're catching a Premier League match or enjoying a late-night whiskey, Fadó delivers an authentic Irish experience in the heart of River North.

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Fifth Province Pub

4626 N Knox Ave UNIT 301

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Galway Arms

2442 N Clark St

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Galway Bay

500 W Diversey Pkwy

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Gideon Welles

4500 N Lincoln Ave

The Patio at Gideon Welles is a neighborhood gem that brings the charm of an Irish pub outdoors. Nestled in the heart of Chicago, it’s known for its laid-back vibe, great beer list, and crowd-pleasing comfort food. Whether you're grabbing a pint after work or spending a sunny afternoon with friends, the patio delivers chill energy and good times all around.

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Guinness Open Gate Brewery – West Loop

901 West Kinzie Street

Experience the authentic taste of Guinness at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Chicago's vibrant West Loop. Enjoy a diverse selection of beers, food-focused experiences, and exclusive events crafted by over 250 years of brewing expertise.

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Lady Gregory's

5254 N Clark St

Lady Gregory’s Irish Bar & Restaurant is an upscale Irish pub offering farm-to-table eats in a richly decorated, welcoming space. Known for its extensive whiskey and beer list, cozy fireplace, and elevated takes on Irish classics, it’s the perfect spot for anything from brunch to late-night pints. With outdoor seating and top-notch cocktails, it balances traditional charm with modern comfort.

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Lanigan’s Pub

3119 W 111th St

A TRUE IRISH PUB ATMOSPHERE, need we say more?

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Lizzie McNeill's Irish Pub

400 N McClurg Ct

Lizzie McNeill’s is a laid-back Irish pub with unbeatable views of the Chicago River. Known for its friendly vibe, hearty pub grub, and outdoor patio, it’s a go-to spot for casual drinks and comfort food. Whether you’re stopping in for a burger and a pint or catching a game with friends, Lizzie’s delivers that welcoming neighborhood feel with an Irish twist.

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Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro

3905 N Lincoln Ave

Mrs. Murphy & Sons blends traditional Irish hospitality with a modern bistro twist. With exposed brick, cozy booths, and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for comforting Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, soda bread, and corned beef and cabbage. Their curated whiskey list and rotating events make it a local favorite for both casual dinners and festive nights out.

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Mystic Rogue

6070 N Northwest Hwy

Mystic Rogue is a cozy Irish pub serving up comfort food, cold pints, and a warm neighborhood vibe. From hearty favorites like Irish stew and fish and chips to a solid beer lineup and casual live music, it’s the kind of place you settle into and stay awhile. Friendly staff, no-frills charm, and a touch of Irish magic keep locals coming back.

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Six Penny Bit

5800 W Montrose Ave

Six Penny Bit is a no-nonsense Irish dive with character, charm, and a strong pour. It’s a neighborhood staple where the Guinness flows, the jukebox plays, and the regulars feel like family. Think classic bar vibes, cold beer, and a space that doesn’t try too hard — just honest, Irish comfort the way it’s meant to be.

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The Dearborn

145 North Dearborn Street

An urban american tavern in the heart of Chicago

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The Embassy

1435 W. TAYLOR ST

Welcome to The Embassy, a new favorite located in Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood. Drinks, sports and food always brings people together. That's why The Embassy crafted the simple purpose of helping people spend meaningful time with each other. With 20 tv's you can enjoy watching every minute of the match, game or race. Enjoy our outdoor patio that also has tv's with sound or throw a game of darts.

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The High Stool Bar

5522 North Elston Avenue

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The Kerryman

661 N Clark St

Drenched in history, the Kerryman’s location was once a notorious gangster hangout known as the McGovern Saloon, where the young Dion O’Banion got his start as a singing waiter. In 1978 the location became home to one of the “original” punk clubs and was considered to be the zenith of the original Chicago punk movement. Now known as Chicago’s liveliest Irish bar, located in the heart of downtown Chicago’s River North Neighborhood, The Kerryman is a little piece of Ireland. The 3 owners all hail from Co. Kerry Ireland and the Head Chef Damo Moloney from Co. Limerick, Ireland who creates an upscale authentic Irish menu. Whether you are stopping by for lunch, dinner, an after work pint or late night dancing the staff at The Kerryman are here to make you feel welcome and at home.

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The Wolfhound Bar and Kitchen

3188 N Elston Ave

The Wolfhound Bar & Kitchen brings a fresh, modern edge to the traditional Irish pub scene. With creative spins on classic dishes, a thoughtful craft beer lineup, and a welcoming, no-fuss vibe, it’s a great spot for everything from brunch to late-night pints. The atmosphere is cozy but lively — the kind of place that feels like home, even on your first visit.

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Vaughan's Pub

2917 North Sheffield Avenue

Vaughan's Pub & Grill offers a vibrant dining experience on Chicago's Northwest Side, featuring daily food and drink specials, dine-in, outdoor dining, and carry-out options. Perfect for private events, our venue accommodates up to 80 guests and provides customizable party packages.

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Chicago Irish Council for Arts & Culture

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the Chicago Irish Council for Arts & Culture at the vibrant Irish Village Market, where authentic Irish food, crafts, and live entertainment bring the spirit of Ireland to downtown Chicago. This free, family-friendly event supports local Irish charities and is a must-attend for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.

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Gaelic Park Players

Gaelic Park Players brings Irish plays by Irish authors to life, fostering cultural cohesiveness and creativity in the Chicago area. With performances like 'Big Maggie,' they enrich social life and stimulate community engagement.

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Ireland Network Chicago

Established in 2003, Ireland Network Chicago is a not-for-profit organization that serves as a bridge for newly arrived Irish, and those connected to Ireland, to the established Chicago business and Chicago Irish communities. We also raise thousands of dollars each year for Irish-related causes near and dear to our hearts.

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Irish American Heritage Center

4626 N Knox Ave

The Irish American Heritage Center in Chicago is a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to preserving and celebrating Irish and Irish American heritage. Offering a range of programs, events, and spaces, including live music, literature, and dance, the center fosters community engagement and cultural appreciation.

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Na Gaeil Chicago

4626 N Knox Ave

Na Gaeil Chicago offers immersive Irish language classes in Chicago, blending in-person and online learning at The Irish American Heritage Center. Perfect for beginners or continuing learners, these classes foster cultural connection and friendship in an engaging setting.

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The Irish American Alliance Chicago

The Irish American Alliance has been in existence since 1990. We currently have approximately three hundred active members, primarily from the Chicago area, particularly the South Side and the South Suburbs. Our club is a non-profit social club and we have an affiliated Charitable Corporation. The Charitable Corporation has engaged in a number of charitable activities through the years, and is holding a fund for the establishment of an Irish American Retirement Home. The retirement home project has moved in “fits and starts” through the years and is presently classified as a “long term goal”. We hold monthly meetings for Officers and Trustees, and quartly meetings for Members. Membership also includes our quarterly newsletter. The club sponsors activities and events which interest our members.

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Trinity Irish Dance Company

1 E Erie St

Trinity Irish Dance Company, founded in 1990 by choreographer Mark Howard, is the pioneering force behind progressive Irish dance. Renowned for its innovative blend of power and grace, TIDC empowers female dancers and continually reshapes the art form, celebrating 35 years of groundbreaking performances.

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Young Gaelic Association

The Young Gaelic Association (YGA) is a vibrant community dedicated to fostering Irish culture and heritage in Chicago. Offering a range of services including holiday trolley tickets, membership purchases, and engaging events, YGA provides a platform for connection and celebration of Gaelic traditions.

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