Jackhammer

Cant say enough about this place. The drinks are reasonably priced, the service is excellent, the upbeat music and events are fun and exciting. It is a great place to meet new people or have fun with people you already know!

Last night was my first time visiting this bar, and it may well be my last. There was an incredibly rude and condescending bartender in red flannel. It definitely seemed that if you are not his preferred clientele, you are beneath him and undeserving of service. Its not a welcoming environment. #Overrated

Love it here! Great employees! Always Super clean in there! They handle the creepy people and the over bearing guys immediately after being informed! Mix awesome drinks! And good price!

Went there 5/27 and the guy at the door said I was too drunk to come in because I was trying to get my ID out of my wallet and I guess it took too long. Don’t know what his problem was. I wasn’t stumbling or anything like that. Pretty sure it was my skin color. Stay away Black People!!

There was no one upstairs.. they should move the dancing up there. I was there for an event in The Hole. It was so much fun though they said it was dress code enforced, I had the most leather on.

I’ve come to REALLY enjoy their PLAYLAND dance parties on Friday nights! A very fun and inclusive way to bring in a move diverse crowd where everyone of ALL gender identities, body types, colors, etc can come and have fun! Nictotha is such a delight and the best! The Wednesday Lip Service is pretty fun too! Tim always makes them lively and fun!While it does have its occasional issue with a problematic character, the good HEAVILY outweighs the bad and it’s definitely worth the recommendation!

Please don’t come here if you’re black. I felt so uncomfortable where no one spoke to me, not even the front area bartenders. The back area bartender was amazing. However The patrons are very much not into socializing outside of whatever they are comfortable with so please don’t waste your time and money here

Some may disagree, but maybe the long wait was worth it. The improvements to this bar are pretty incredible. Feels like the old Jackhammer, but shiny and new. Some may miss the grime, but I sort of love the new vibe.The place was thriving and busy last night which made it fun and energetic and downstairs was a blast.

Went for TUFF and was told to buy online tickets in advance. There was a HUGE line to get into the bar for those presale tickets. Seems to kind of miss the point of buying presale tickets?The coat check line and the line to get into the hole were a HOT MESS. It took us about 30 minutes to even get moving to the middle of the line for the hole. I eventually left because I just couldn’t justify wasting more time for it.BUT…the whole place has a nice grunge feel that I liked and it’s great for the neighborhood. Love being able to get out of Boystown/Andersonville for once. It was my first time and wasn’t pleased with the TUFF event. I’ll have to come back on a night that doesn’t feature a large event like TUFF.

A joke . This place is wildly mismanaged . Coat check takes eons. The dress code for the door seems wildly random and seemingly based on whatever the door guy is feeling at the moment. Dont waste your time here youll be better off waiting in line at the supermarket on a Sunday night.

Love lip service karaoke nights. The DJ and the host are great people and make for a great night. My partner usually gets beers for himself and I generally am sober so I pay and tip for virgin drinks and sodas for myself. I also got *free* regular tap water in a glass on top of this.Tonight (Feb 28, 2024) we came as usual for lip service and with my partners first can of PBR he asked for a glass of tap water for me. The bartender refused him and said the bar doesnt do that and he can only get water bottles which were $3 per bottle. Funny thing is he later saw several other people get glasses of tap water with no issues whatsoever. This was after he bought 3 bottles of water. When he pointed this out he FINALLY got a single glass of tap water.It was already ridiculous that sodas and juices were charged nearly the same as mixed drinks/cocktails, but LITERAL TAP WATER??? I cant imagine that this was not a problem with us as individuals because it makes no sense to reject specifically us and not others around us.My partner bought about 3 or 4 cans of PBR, by the way, on top of the 3 bottles of water.Totally gross service at the front bar despite everything else being cool.Edit: Yikes on bikes at that owner response.Apparently buying soda and juice isnt enough to justify free tap water. The bartender didnt tell my boyfriend that even though I wasnt with him when he bought his *first* BEER.We only didnt buy juice and soda this time BECAUSE the bartender made it seem like we would have to pay for BOTH bottled water and juice/soda. Plus, when I told people how much juices and sodas cost (about $4-5) my friends who were there informed me that they usually pay $5-7 or so for their drinks.Maybe I misremembered/misunderstood and it was not mixed drinks they mentioned, but they definitely got defensive for me that non-alcoholic drinks shouldnt cost nearly the same as alcoholic ones.

Despite claiming to be inclusionary, we were denied entry to the lower level. We read the rules and visited your website and facebook page before coming, to check the theme and for any events or rule changes. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Weve been here before the pandemic, and after, and are aware of the dress code policy. We brought friends from out of town, just to come to your bar, primarily to enjoy the lower level. There were four of us, two of which could have passed the code without undressing. We were going to use the coat check downstairs. There is no way to know what we had on under our winter clothes as it was below freezing outside. Also, underwear isnt a fetish? We were told it was the remodel that changed being able to let us in, which is not true, since we had no issues getting in previously. We were offered a coupon to go next-door and purchase gear. Like, what? So, we go ask them if they could explain what would get us in, and got a conflicting explanations (to the hole guards, and their own) on why we couldnt enter your space, including looking like a skinhead would get us in and getting in trouble with the city and because of covid and the policy is stupid Like what?? If you are going to practice discrimination and try to gatekeep your own exclusive space, denying entry without an explanation that makes any sense, good luck with that business practice. Hopefully, others read this and dont waste their time trying to be included. If you dont fit into their profile and look, you are not welcome here.(Youre welcome for this feedback): Also, we had a small sling fanny pack and there was no mention of searching it or checking it as we entered until we were enjoying ourselves upstairs, only to be interrupted with the need to pay to check it? We were finishing our drinks and were heading downstairs(so we thought, only to be denied entry) where we planned to check the bag. Understand the need to search/check bags as everyone needs to be kept safe, but we made it all the way into your bar! What if we had something in the bag with bad intent? Figure that out. Hopefully, this review helps someone.

Agree with all of the reviews calling out the gatekeeping and exclusionary policies. This is not an inclusive space, and from the owners replies it doesnt appear that will change anytime soon. Bad vibes.

Unreal how clean & modern the space is!Every floor feels like its own space, and acts like it, too! I love how community & kink forward they are!

Great bar with great people! The upstairs offers a standard bar with music and a stage for shows on select days. Affordable drinks and friendly bartenders.The Hole, downstairs has theme nights on select days and make sure you know the theme before going if you want to go downstairs. The Hole has another bar as well as many other fetish areas. The only rule is to ask before you touch or insert into someone. Its a very fun environment, NOT FOR THE LIGHTHEARTED, EASILY OFFENDED, UPTIGHT, OR NONSEXUAL PEOPLE. OPEN MIND REQUIRED AND NO JUDGEMENT ZONE.

This is my go-to gay bar in the neighborhood. Ive been to several events, especially pup ones, and Ive always been made to feel welcome. Ive also never had trouble getting into the Hole when proper attire is required on the weekends. I never went to Jackhammer before it re-opened, but Im glad it did. In my opinion, I prefer it to Cell Block (which was very loud and had a restroom that was wet on every surface and had no privacy) or Touché, which hosted a racist performance to prove it doesnt like PoC. Fun place overall, and Im glad its back.

I went to this bar. First impression, it looked very updated and clean. However, I did not like the vibe and was not a fan of the enforcement of the dress code that had different interpretations to different staff. I hung around for about 30 minutes and then left. I ended up going to Cell Block in boystown, and now that place was amazing, and what I was hoping to get from Jackhammer. Overall, I wouldnt visit this establishment again.

Is a fun gay bar that is different from the usual boystown bars. Has a chill area upstairs with reasonably priced drinks especially compared to other gay bars. The downstairs or as its named the hole is where a lot of the fun is at and highly recommended going if you are a kinky person.

I understand why there is a bag check/policy, but I don’t understand why you’re told to check your bag in the middle of the bar instead of doing it automatically at the front door. On top of that, it seemed like it was enforced on select people. My boyfriend was immediately yelled at for having his bag as we walked up to the bar, yet I saw at least 10 people in plain view with their bags around their chest. Having never been there before and it being our first visit to Chicago, it didn’t leave a very good impression. The staff were incredibly rude except the person at the front door. Outside of being forced to leave one star, the only good parts were that the bar is beautiful inside and the clientele are friendly. Otherwise, I wouldn’t go back strictly for how my boyfriend and I were spoken to. Sorry for wanting to visit your bar for the first time and not immediately knowing where to go.

You know that one suburban friend that renovates his house and thinks he’s on top of the world? That’s the feel you get from this placeFirst, it’s in a sketchy area, I wouldn’t walk around alone late at night. Second, I attended what was supposed to be a big party, Friday 10 pm and you could count the people by hand. The one guard was so rude that I couldn’t believe - does he need tips? Coz I doubt he gets many.As many other people said, go to cell block, it’s on a very safe street in the heart of boystown, always a good service, cheap drinks and immediate fun in the back room. Jackhammer is a joke, they’ll never see my money again

Minimal changes upstairs after such a long closure. Be aware new management does not allow entry to the Hole unless you are in fetish gear. Change in policy. Formerly shirtless was acceptable. As someone who made frequent visits to the old Jackhammer this change was an unpleasant surprise. Not because it’s a bad policy. But because it was not mentioned on their website. Had it been an out-of-towner would know what to expect and come prepared or stay away

Im giving 4.5 STARS...you can only choose 4 or 5 when reviewing but there were a couple things that stopped me giving 5, and I feel halfway between 4 and 5 fits my experience.First: the positives...Friendly staff, loads of space (3 floors, 3 bars), outdoor area in back for those needing a smoke break or just some cool air and for me personally I love the layout, especially the Hole, with its nooks and crannies and passages. All in all very sleek, stylish and relatively open flow between main floor and second floor. 2 bag check locations and lockers (which arent available when bag check is open just FYI) is nice.The negatives...and these are minor but there were a couple of them on my visit. The clothes check was a little disorganized so took a while to find my bag, and when retrieved bag had been put on something wet...which is disconcerting when you feel wetness on you when you pull on your shirt.Negatives aside, had a lot of fun and will absolutely visit again. :)

This isn’t an inclusive/safe space. Their fetish theme and enforcement of it is based any individual, random employees discretion. The door man will let you in and after you’re there and comfortable, someone will approach you and tell you it’s not enough even though you’re practically naked. I was duped into thinking this bar was accepting of everyone and everyone’s fetish. Don’t do the same.In response to the owner:Thanks for responding but I won’t be emailing as I’d like for anyone looking at reviews to take this into consideration as there are multiple options to consider when looking for a bar to express themselves (and spend money at). You’re correct, the dress code rules are posted in a lot of places. I didn’t imply that I wasn’t aware of your rules. As for random employees discretion- what do you call it when the Hole guard takes a look at the singlet you are wearing, allows you to go downstairs, you undress and get comfortable and then are approached by a random employee and based on this employees discretion you are asked to leave? How’s that not a random employees discretion? They weren’t my bartender. They weren’t the Hole guard. In the rules that you assume I haven’t read it states that it’s up to the Hole guards discretion. It’s embarrassing, it’s not necessary and the message wasn’t delivered in a respectful way. I understand why you have a dress code and why it’s to keep the area exclusive and prevent the “gawkers” as you put it in a different response. I actually appreciate that rule. You can trust that when I wear a singlet I am not there to gawk. I am there to be part of a community and I’m there to feel safe. This experience changed that and I won’t trust myself or my friends with the whatever environment you think you’ve created.

Acceptance is wonderful. Bar is well maintained and looks great after remodel. Minor issue: shame the upstairs bars wont serve water off the gun. Hydration is key to reducing hangovers, and the discrepancy between servers/bars causes confusion and can lead to over spending. Either serve bottled water or tap water.

Great space. Staff was welcoming and very helpful. The scenery is pretty nice too

Decent size bar, nice pours on drinks but I only gave it 3 because they a had a generic techo-house playlist with no DJ on a Saturday night. I mean i know dancing isn’t the primary thing people go there for but if you advertise a dance floor you should have a DJ on the weekend.

I was really excited to come here when they (finally)opened, but the management has made all my and my friends’ experiences awful.They make you wear gear to the hole (so too bad if you can’t afford a $200 harness) I am fortunate enough to have some gear, but it really ruins the night when your friend gets turned away because he can’t afford to buy gear next door. It never used to be so exclusive, and they’re making it into something it wasn’t. So many people were excited to go back after it being closed for years, and now they’re excluding those people that were big fans.The second time I went, my friend was denied entry because his license expired on his birthday. Like come on, why does it seem like you guys are trying to upset your once loyal customer base?I don’t think I’ll ever come here again, which is really disappointing knowing how excited I was for them to open. Until they stop being so exclusive, I will not be supporting their business.Edit: Not a good look that you guys don’t respond to any of your bad reviews.

Fun bar with great deals of the day. And the downstairs has a dress code theme. Real friendly people down there.

Ordered a screwdriver. I watched the bar tender make it down the bar. He never poured any vodka in it. Then when I asked him about. He lied to my face and promised he did. I watched him make this drink. Never been so disappointed with service at bar.

Great music, friendly staff. Dance floors upstairs and downstairs on weekends. Theme nights downstairs, dress code like leather or underwear parties. Beware of pickpockets! One of my favourite no attitude clubs, younger and more polished than Touche’ next door (although most go for a drink to start at Touche’ and then head over to Jackhammer...).

It’s a big space but it gets very slippery so you have to be extremely careful walking around. The events are usually okay. Drinks are so-so decently priced, like going to any other gay club in Chicago. The monthly make out party is the event to attend here free Jell-O shots and fun DJ/hosts.

Unique bar on Chicagos far north side catering to the fetish community. The bar consists of an upstairs, with a dance floor and bar in the front, and a back section with pool tables and a second bar, as well as a basement with a dress code. The bar is connected to the leather store next door and you can go between them during certain hours. The upstairs is a fairly regular bar, though they do sometimes host live music events, while the downstairs is more a hands on fetish destination. Unfortunately the bar has had issues of late with the City and keeps closing and reopening due to ongoing issues.

Great little bar. We are a couple 29/30 year old. Don’t think it gets busy at all upstairs, but downstairs is a lot of fun with one huge sex room with a wide mix of people!

My first time at this bar was last weekend 8/5/16 the upstairs is nice and does not get busy until midnight. the upstairs bartenders were not very friendly or engaging in conversation even though i was only one of 5 guys in the bar… but I did get there at 10 pm . The downstairs bar is wild and fun clothes check for those that want to be wearing a jockstrap and boots or leather or nothing!! The bartenders down there were super friendly and way hotter (more what you expect from a leather bar) they were wearing jocks and boots etc the upstairs staff just had on shorts and tshirts which i thought was not appropriate attire for a leather bar. Drinks are strong and the type of Men that come there are very friendly and fun. There is a sling , which i was in and had loads of fun with some hot men (thanks guys). there is a group shower room for the WS guys and some dark cubby hole areas for other activities. Its open until 4am so take a nap and dont arrive until midnight have fun I sure did !!!

I called just to politely ask about my lost debit card, to get someone who was overall rude. I get the place is busy but coming at me a customer simply cause Im trying to call which took multiple calls to find out about my debit card with sass and unneeded attitude is not a way to promote business. Wont be spending my money there again anytime soon.

This is not for your faint of heart if you cannot handle such fun and very open place to meet and greet queer folx to dance. Plus have a good drink to enjoy the music beating on your body with the sex toys store next door to shop for your fun nightcap!

Jackhammer is very much a choose-your-own-adventure bar in all of the best ways! This is an incredible spot for out-of-town visitors and regulars alike and you can pick what kind of night you want across the three levels of the club.

Staff is so friendly. Definitely a cornerstone of the gay/queer bar scene. Jimmy, Andy, Rob, Jared and the ones whos names I havent learned yet. I live nearby and appreciate how they appreciate their regulars. Really love seeing more lesbians and gnc/trans folks here. But dudes, if youre here w your straight girlfriend, get her an Uber before you go to the Hole please!

Love this bar!! The Staff are friendly.. Jimmy the bar owner is a sweetheart and they host very great drag shows (especially the Monday night show) Very happy to call this place my home club.... wouldnt want or have it any other way.

Wildly inclusive leather and fetish space. As a non-binary person I feel welcomed and safe in this space which is rare in Chicago (and in general) fetish spaces.

If you have enough money then you can be invited to the shirtless after hours where they have free drinks. But ypu have to be a regular and a friend of at least a friend who know an employee. Good luck

They will throw out your credit card in less than 48 hours even if you call to make sure they have it before making the trip. Completely rude the entire time he lazily checked through the cards in the box. Poor poor customer service.

Relaxed crowd, leather store next door, and nothing but body positivity [=]. If youve not been to a Jackhammer Mens Room, youve not been to Chicago. Check it out and Leather 6410 next door & be sure to grab some tacos before you stumble home or hop in your Lyft/Uber home! Definitely check it out, gurl!!

Excellent bar. Love the bartneders and drinks. The basement has a nice fun place to show off your kinky interest. Held a birthday party there!

The employees at this location are nasty and rude.... I had a bad interaction with a men about parking infront, however the sign from the city was flipped over and we didn’t know it wasn’t parking from a certain time. He harassed us In the Mexican restaurant and started to record and called the police. In my opinion I believe he was a racist and who would act this disrespectful towards someone especially a pregnant lady.

Not very friendly. If you go there with friends, youll have a good time, but dont be single.

Wholesome fun ... depending on your definition of wholesome. Caters to the fetish community but is very welcoming. Friendly staff and always a good time.

Draws a diverse crowd on almost any night. If you like dark lit and casual environments, this is a great place to be mischievous with other boys.

Good friendly people..Im an uber driver so i just pick up and drop off..My riders are always happy and friendly and say good things of the club.

Nice layout, drinks were weak and overpriced, clientele were fun, staff was borderline rude. Overall, not that impressed.

Friendly fun times

Not much to say 15 dls just cover. So went up stairs and you have to pay again. Didnt even get a drink, bummer

Most ‘exclusive’ fetish and leather bar ever. Never will return.

This place is packed mostly on weekends. They are ok during the week, but if you like crowd, fridays and Saturdays ar to go days

The dirty floor is real dirty. The bar floor is excellent dive, pool, dance and affordable drinks.

Omg. More coat check please. Y’all ran out of space at 10pm 😱💀

New dress code for the basement. Typical Chicago gatekeeping.

In town from Clearwater fl. Loved it. Staff was very friendly definitely will go back its a must to go check out

Dont accept military IDs to enter. Dont support the troops.

First trip to Chicago, i totally cant wait to.go back!!!!!

Super welcoming local leather bar with great events and amazing staff and performers.

WERE SO BACKstill being violated by the coat check hallway but its back folks

Yay! Glad its back and looks amazing

It was a blast staff is great, show was a lot of fun

Amazing bar full of wonderful staff.

Hands down one of the best bars this side of the Mississippi. Day time night time. IT ROCKS💥🌟💥🌟💥

Simply amazing people love love love the bartenders and the owner they are sooooo gr8

Go here to have a good time. Post 12am. Check out the drinks!

Awesome seedy bar, a place for locals and tourists alike

If you go there, be sure to go late. Its often dead until at least midnight.

Great service, slow for the most part but enjoy the environment

My favorite leather bar in Chicago! Bar none.

Thursday night drag show... You need to check it out!!!

Friendly staff and clientele. Need to update the website to be more informed.

I Love this place friendly people great space.

The best LGBTQ club in town.

Nice diverse group of people and strong drinks

The best bar in the North side of Chicago

The hole experience is awesome!

Theres a lot of fluid around. 😀

Great fun!

Fun place

Tuesday nite karaoke!

So many beautiful asses

Very gay man centered

Always a fun time.

Phaded

I loves jackhammer!

There was a lot of fluid around

Bastard

Harrrd jackers!

Not great.

Great place.

Look