Second Story Bar

This bar is amazing. The atmosphere is really good. The music is amazing and the service is ultra kind!Cash only! (Theres an ATM downstairs that only charges $3 per transaction)

Ok, this is my favorite downtown gay bar. Well, its the only one but still, its awesome!The Regulars are the best and the bartenders are great and pour an incredible drink!When its busy, its crazy and when its quiet its great.Always a great time.

The atmosphere was great! Love the bar. Had a super negative experience so I won’t be back, but decided to leave a review so maybe the owner will see.I was there during the St Pattys Day madness. Waited 30 mins to get in. Went to the bar to order drinks and the bartender was unbelievably rude to my partner. I didn’t worry about it because hey everyone has bad days. When I went to order my partner told me “Good luck.” I ordered a lemon drip martini. He then told me no, he was too busy to make martins. And turned away and that was it. I understand if you are busy, but making drinks is his job. So we left, and won’t be back.I’m not sure of his name, but the guy was skinny, with a big belly, and wore a shark tooth necklace.I also noticed that he greeted people with “what do you want?” and not “what can I get you?” Regardless of how good this bartender is 1. Hard skills dont matter if youd soft skills drive away paying customers, 2. I wouldnt know of his actual skill as a bartender because he refused to make drinks because he was “too busy.”

Do not come to this bar. I have been to this bar many times. Whenever I have friends in town I go here. Tonight, 5/14/2024 I brought an out of town guest and it was his birthday. We were sitting at the bar and my friend placed his drink down, but didnt notice the space between the bar and the bar rail, so his glass fell on the floor and broke. Immediately the bartender made a little scene and said “you’re done”. I thought he was joking and I asked him if he was joking. He said he wasn’t and that he would no longer serve my friend because he broke a glass. As a bartender myself, I would never deny a patron a drink because of an accident like that. I could understand if my friend was intoxicated but that was not the case. So then the bartender started to get an attitude with me. I asked him to make me another drink with and he assumed I was going to share it with my friend and told me if I did, i was “done”. I thought that was an odd thing to assume. Also, I asked him to make my drink with a certain liquor but he didn’t hear me. When I asked him if he used that liquor he said I didn’t ask for it. When I said I did, he then told me “you’re done”. It was a very strange experience. I am not sure what me and my friend did to this man.This left a very bad taste in my mouth and was very uncalled for. I won’t ever go back there and if anyone mentions this place to me I will tell them not to go here.

My first trip to Chicago, the staff and patrons were super friendly, inviting, and made me feel like I was at my local. The martinis looked dangerous. I stuck to beer, Im not used to those stairs.

Was excited to find an lgbt+ bar in the city centre of Chicago but there’s not much of a friendly or welcoming vibe for newbies/tourists. Only stayed for one drink because we felt uncomfortable

A fantastic hidden gem of a gay bar. Second Story is unassuming from the outside but rewards those in the know with a fun crowd and a divey atmosphere. Cheap cash-only bar and friendly bartender. I intended to stay for one drink but stayed until last call because the people were so great!

Delightfully divey in the best way possible. Complete gem from a bygone era in Chicago history, especially the building itself, it’s a very historic building that you never see in the area anymore since most of the buildings like this were torn down to build ugly square high-rises with no personality.

Throwing someone bottle against the wall and taking someone’s cap pen instead of asking both people to put in back in the car is insane. Security guards try to act like they have more authority over you and need to be humbled immediately

My favorite kind of bar: a friendly, gay dive! Bartenders are always friendly, theres an eclectic group of folks, and drinks are cheap!

The ambiance of the bar is lovely and I also appreciate some of the workers there— very kind folks! However, I was shocked by the rude tone by the bartender who informed us that we must buy something or leave due to a larger crowd forming. I was fine with the request to purchase something, but the tone was very rude and unprofessional. Moreover, when I went to the bartender to purchase something, he made another rude and snide remark: “But there is two of you”. I would have easily forgiven the first comment, but the second punctuated my issue: it felt very targeted and unnecessary. There were also other customers there who did not purchase anything either, but no comments were made in their direction.It was a cute bar when I attended the few times I did. Moving forward, I will not entertain the rudeness and unprofessionalism presented.P.S. they also have a very anachronistic practice of requiring cash only.

This is a no frills but friendly and fun gay bar. The only downtown option strangely enough. The bartenders are always nice if not snarky (in a fun way.) Lots of regulars. Drinks are strong. But it’s small so get there early.

Zack is one of the best bartenders ever. If ya ever have the pleasure of being his patron then your in good hands. From having a splendid soul to pouring drinks without a spout. Hes just freaking awesome!

Place was warm and inviting for a very small bar for some outsiders from Tucson, however the bar tender made the experience terrible. First, its cash only. Second, he asked, what do you want? and then proceeded to ignore my drink request after I asked for a Blue Moon. He went on to help others with their drinks. I was going to tip him well, as that is my nature, but he didnt deserve my money. Poor experience and manners. I understand this is the big city but this was terrible business manners. To the tattooed neck bar tender, I will never go back because of this experience. The emojis were cute In the bar though! 😁🍑🍆

This is a quintessential dive gay bar. Its absolutely fabulous.They pour a strong drink.They attract a good mix of people.💯 recommend.

The door person required proof of vaccination and a photo ID to get in. The bartender was brash but in a good way. Reminded me a lot of Stinky at the Blazing Saddle in DSM. We will return again.

Very small bar. cocktails are inexpensive and correspond to the price.

Very rude bartender with terrible customer service on Friday nights (Zack). I have witnessed this guy curse at innocent customers telling them to shut the fK up, or get the f out, when hes the one who was nasty with them first, and hes just a real jerk overall ; then has a temper tantrum when he doesnt get a tip that meets his standards. I suggest the owner consider a new bartender because long time patrons are not coming back because of him. Youre better off going a few miles north to boystown, if you are going to visit a gay bar.

Cute little gay bar in downtown Chicago. Capacity is 36 people. Not overpriced and good drinks. Nice chill atmosphere. Its cash only but there is an ATM downstairs. Ill def come back.

Incredible vintage vibes in a cozy upstairs space above a restaurant. Open early afternoon. Great service. If you’re in the neighborhood it’s a must visit.

A little bar tucked up on the second floor of a walk-up building on Ohio Street. Lively crowd, fun bartenders and really well crafted drinks. Great place to stop by after work for a little libation and good conversation.

Strong drinks and lively crowd! This place is a bit off the beaten path and it was really cute. The drink prices were reasonable and very strong and the crowd was friendly and from all walks of life. It also has a wonderful view of the street which makes for excellent people watching. Plus they played friends on their TV so what more could you want.

The drinks are strong and the atmosphere is always pleasant. It’s a cash only bar, tip the bartender well, he deserves it. I’ve been coming here for almost 20 years and always had a fun time.

Small, cozy, friendly, (and probably crowded) hole in the wall bar. Cash-only but ATM is just downstairs. Proof that good vibes don’t need schmancy digs.

An amazing gem of a bar. I stopped in impulsively one night when I was visiting Chicago from out of town, and lets just say if I lived there I would be a regular. It is very crowded and very loud, and theres a good chance you wont find a seat, but the atmosphere is electric and the vibes are so good.

Whenever we are in town and in the neighborhood we do pay a visit to this lovely and (if I heard correctly) oldest gay bar in Chicago. Still no Aperol on the shelf so I couldnt stop myself for using the chalk in the bathroom. Maybe next time? ... LOL

Me, my wife and guy friend (all gay) went to Second Story while waiting for our other two guy friends (also gay) to meet up with us. When I say I have never been treated so poorly in my entire life. This is supposed to be a safe place for LGBTQ+ members and it was polar opposite. The bartender was so rude the whole time. He yelled at me to leave. We live in the neighborhood and have been here before and alway tell our gay friends to visit when in Streeterville. NEVER AGAIN. Do yourself a favor and skip this spot. After reading other reviews it seems this is not the first time this has happened.

Had a lovely $6 Blue Moon beer around 5pm here. Friendly place - mostly men and a few ladies. Great bartender who seemed to know everyone.I wanted to stay but didnt have any more cash. No credit cards accepted (my only complaint).

Coming to visit from Orlando I was so excited to visit this location due to having a location to visit with out being judge and it’s part of my community. Over all I understand 2 years ago we went through covid after everything is open no mask requirement I was shocked to hear that we needed our vaccination card …. If I was to travel internationally I would have it but I wasn’t who would have thought. Anyways that’s not why I was upset I was upset because the host at the door first of was not friendly gave attitude while delivering that information. I get it you have to follow rules but you just represented how the community is here in Chicago is and scared me away . But I did enjoy they friendly welcoming environment at the straight bar around the corner.

Trashy gay bar (in a good way)! This place clearly doesnt feature in the Architecture Tour of Chicago but youll get a friendly welcome and even friendlier locals. Usual suspects in terms of drinks. ID and Covid Vaccine pass required. Cash only (ATM at the entrance)

A friend recommended this bar several years ago and I went to see what it was all about. That first visit wasnt the best. The bar was extremely crowded (at 5pm on a Tuesday!!) and no one spoke to me. When I visited Chicago again a few months later I decided to give it another try. What a difference! I got there earlier and secured a seat right at the bar and made sure I was a part of conversations. It was amazing! I love an old-style bar like this where people actually want to talk! I now make this place the first thing I do on every trip to Chicago! I get into town, drop off my bags at the hotel/airbnb and head right for the Second Story bar! Its a great way to begin ANY vacation in the Windy City! I will be there in a few weeks and cant wait to be back there!!

Visited this tiny drinking spot with a friend who goes regularly and swears by this place. I immediately fell in love with the atmosphere. This alternative LBGT bar is super cozy and friendly. There is no other bar in this area pouring drinks like this place at a below market price. I wish I could keep this little place to myself but that wouldnt be fair to the owners of Second Story. Go spend your money here and dance like no one is watching.

Great atmosphere at this tiny gay bar. Amazing drinks, and the staff and other clients were a total vibe.

I had a lot of fun here. It has a nice local neighborhood bar feel. Just an easy, chill and friendly vibe. The only bummer is that they are cash only and the atm wasn’t working when I went.

I have always had a good time here. And its quaint enough so you can actually talk and get to know people. I love this place. The staff is always nice and because its downtown, you get to meet people from all over. And i feel their prices for drinks arent ridiculous.

Ive been here several times when visiting Chicago over the years. This time, I was very disappointed. Through the years, Ive had great experiences at Second Story. Based on that, I took two of my girlfriends there for their first gay bar experience. The bartender was great and poured a good drink. There was an employee, however, who was quite ride to me and my friends.

Not my favorite place but decided to check it out after the restrictions lifted a bit. The first objection was the fact they are closing at 10pm...while other places are 11pm. They seem to be extra cautious (which is reassuring in such a small space)...door locked....chairs and tables well spaced. Serving tableside and even sanitizing chairs between patrons. Drinks are pricier here. Ive also found bartenders to be a little less friendly when its busy (pre-covid). Not sure but I think they are still cash only. Bring cash to be sure or call to confirm.Also most people here know each other so not the best pickup bar.

Found this place on a fluke during a visit this last weekend. Not in the club scene and just wanted a place to have a drink. Was a great bar, friendly staff and patrons. Cash only so that is the biggest draw back but there is an ATM on the way up the stairs. A little hard to find but that adds to the charm. I will go back on future visits to Chicago.

They didn’t let us in, even after we’d asked them earlier in the night what time they closed (they told us midnight) and we said we’d be back and they were very rude about it when we came back for a drink. (told us they were already closed when people were clearly still there).Would like to be back, but would’ve appreciated if they had told us earlier that they stop letting people in at 11pm, 11:30pm etc etc

Been to this place many times. I took some straight family members with me after dinner last night. Bartender pretty much ignored us. I tipped way too much and he was still ignoring us. Left after two drinks. Would have stayed all night! Every other time the bartenders were great!. Not last night!

Sorry for the blurred photo, the bar is phenomenal. The staff make the atmosphere fun and soothing. Came in stressed and after some jokes and a lot of laughs came out with a happy baby brother and a very awesome birthday expirence for him!

Zach our bartender was so amazing. Our first time in Chicago, and he was so welcoming and helpful. Thanks for everything you’re the best Zach!

My buddy and I dropped by for a couple of drinks. The people were friendly and the drinks actually had a generous amount of booze. I recommend it wholeheartedly.

Drinks were OK. Bartender was fine at first, i tipped very well.. Then he became a quite rude,, very quickly. Not sure why. He had a moment I guess. Kinda sad,, we would have stayed. Either way, wont be back.

Great bar… if they even let you in. Only to tell you they are at capacity then allow 4 other people to come in .

This place is a small (official capacity 36), sort of old-style bar. Theres dirty red carpeting leading from the street to the bar, which indeed occupies space on the second story of a building. As others note, theres no pretentiousness here. The crowd was maybe 75% mid-30s and up and maybe 75% white. Despite the perhaps-relatively-high percentage it just felt as though there was a good mix of guys there (and maybe two women). There are a couple of video monitors with music and videos from a period of many years playing. The drinks are good. What else can I say?

Most unwelcoming bar Ive ever been too, and Im from NY. Walking in it looked closed, I asked the bartender several times if he was closing until a girl mockingly repeated me then he answered I guess not they had no red bull for mixers (no energy drinks) the drink I ordered tasted awful, I gave it to my friend to drink and he gagged (pretty sure it was cheap vodka in the Absolute bottle) when my friend complained, the bartender acted like he was underage and I was buying him drinks!!!!!! We are both in our mid 30s!!! Then we decided to just leave because the vibe was awful, on the way out the bartender called my friend TPain. Stay classy Second Story. BTW my bedroom is bigger than your musty, broke down bar. I would never recommend this place.

My friend and I took a spontaneous trip to Chicago and stayed at the Sheraton Towers on New Years Day for the weekend. Our first night in town we wanted to go out, but the single digit temperatures deterred us from the trek to Boystown. We searched area bars and found Second Story. We loved the reviews of the bar described as a seedy, throw back to 1977, so we decided to go.We LOVED the bar. The crowd and staff were friendly and non-pretentious. The drinks were strong and plentiful. Loved the decor, the videos and the music.We loved the bar so much we closed it the next night too. We never did make it to Boystown, but Im not sure we missed anything.If youre looking for twinks, pretension, and attitude, this isnt the bar for you. If youre looking for a crowd in their forties, a strong drink and good conversation, this might be your place.

It’s kind of a dive but the drinks are affordable and strong! Lots of visitors from out of town and great for the 25 and up crowd. CASH ONLY but you can walk half a block east to 7-Eleven to use the ATM there.

Dropped in from out of town, fantastic gay bar

Not so friendly as I was hoping.I asked for a vodka and sprite and a very rude waiter answered we dont have that drink. Whats that about? Very sbruot. I then then into ask if they served Vodla, yes, and something like Sprite? To which he answered 7UP or ginger beer. He was clearly bothered about something. Shame as its the only gay bar in the area and my first experience of a gay bar in Chicago. No need to come back here anytime soon. Bye Second Rated Bar.

First time in Chicago and Zack made it sooooo good! Im skinny bit*h cocktail was extra skinny ;);) loved all the tourist advice from Zack.

The place is fun and the music are good, unfortunately the bar tender is rude and looks high or something. Me and my friends decide to give it a “second chance” yesterday but at the end it was frustrating wait 20 min for a beer because the bartender it was in a bad mood. I asked for the manager but the other employees couldn’t reach it.

Went with a gay friend who told me about it, wouldnt have never known there was a gay dive bar right off Michigan Ave unless he told me. Place is super tiny, feels like someones apartment converted into a dive bar. Can be great with friends and who the bartender is. You have to go up this awkward stairs and there is a video camera watching you. If you dont wanna make the trek all the way down to Boystown and your on the Mag Mile or near the Loop and want a gay dive. This is your spot.

If youre looking for quick a place to meet up friends in the city this hole in the wall has it. On the second floor youll find a small space that can get quite packed. Everyone is fun. From the retail queens to the executives, you never know who youll meet. Definitely stay if Zach is bartending. CASH ONLY.

This cute little dive bar is the perfect place to sneak away in the middle of one if America’s biggest cities. The space can only hold about 40 people but it has cheap drinks and is right off Michigan Ave. If I lived in Chicago I would visit it often.

Stroooong drinks, good vibes, and hidden away up a flight of steps in downtown Chicago. This is a place to get cheap, non Chicago drinks, so stop in for one or two. Cash only though, so be prepared for that.

Me and my girl went here to kill time before our table was ready at the grand lux when we ran into this bar not knowing it was a gary bar. Bar tender was great and friendly, definitely knows how to make a stiff drink 😉

Would have received 5 stars, except for the self-styled bouncer who made no effort to identify himself before launching into a tirade about how he should never be ignored again. Dont worry, I wont be back. Despite the great service and very friendly patrons and bartender.

We are out of towners. We arrive and are greeted by all the staff. Dakota was so friendly, he even bought us a shot for our anniversary. Would highly recommend this cozy hole in the wall!!

Their doorman could benefit from some serious customer service training. Place was packed and people seemed to be having fun but we couldnt get over the tone he set. We turned around to leave and received a hand in the air, roll of the head and snide comment on our way out.

This is my favorite bars in Chicago. It is right off Michigan Ave. It is a dive bar but the owner, staff and people are very friendly. If you enjoy smaller more intimate settings. I highly recommend this place!

I always forget Im in Streeterville when I come to this bar. This little gay bar is tucked away on the second floor above Sayat Nova on Ohio Street, just down the street from the Gap. The crowd is usually very mixed, with lots of locals. They cleaned it up a bit a few years back, so its no longer as dark and skeevy as it was. The bartenders pour heavy drinks while shuffling music videos on the TVs. Be warned, you will get drunk here with very little effort on your part. Most important to remember, this is a CASH ONLY bar.

Spent about 20 mins here and totally hated it. I tried talking with the bartender and only got grunts and side-looks. Still cant believe I tipped. The place itself is a claustrophobic nightmare. Head on over to Sidetrack or Progress bar for a great night. Much better, in my opinion.

This place is very cool: it looks like it was frozen in carbonite right after Han Solo, and only recently thawed, revealing an intact 1970s decor. It is very small though: I was here with a large group, and it was already crowded.

Its a cool bar but I felt some masculine-only vibe. Doesnt felt like a place where being sissy would be welcome. But it could have been only my own impression.

Great gay dive bar just off of Michigan Avenue. Good drinks with great bartenders. They will take care of you.This is a cash only establishment.

Lived in Chicago for two years down town and was so happy to find this bar. Im a layed back blue collar raisedBM and the Gentry wasnt my speed glad to see the bar is still there.

Always a good reception. A- Holes dont stay long. Lots of comerady, guys dont stand for S**t. Youre either nice to your neighbor or youre sitting by yourself drowning in you own sorrow.

It is small and i guess its a bit of a dive but if you just want to grab a quick drink with a friend away from the crowds before you part and venture out for the nght it fits the bill.

Great Gay bar, a Great local dive bar friendly bartenders a fun atmosphere. One of two gay bars (Downtown Bar & Lounge) in the downtown River North or River East area, just off One Mag Mile (Michigan Ave)

Oh yes! Came to this bar every single day of our trip here. Went to Boystown to dance, and came back afterwards. GREAT dive bar without attitude. CASH ONLY!

Everyone is welcoming! The drinks are very well priced the crew is super friendly! Its a pocket of paradise of bars!

Wow. A neat little place. Had no idea what was in store as we walked up the stairs. Really cozy bar with a nice mix of patrons.

Cute little bar with great atmosphere. Cash only with friendly staff. Went with my girlfriend so everyone is welcome!

Nice small dive gay bar. Cash only :/ Mostly a lot of visitors from out of town that are staying nearby downtown.

Glad I visited this little bar. It was very friendly and not pretentious. I felt welcomed by both the staff and patrons.

Relatively cheap gay bar. Having to go up a flight of stairs to enter makes it seem like a speakeasy -- very exciting!

We are Stright. This bar is Awesome. May me feel right at home. Nice atmosphere. Funny Bartender.

Amazing hidden gem. Don’t tell to many people about it or it’ll ruin the fun.

A gem in the loop. Great hole in the wall to have a cheap drink and spark a conversation with your neighbor.

Must show vaccination, regardless of negative test results. It’s already bad enough you have to wear a mask 🙄

Probably the friendliest environment Ive been in at a Gay bar Happy Hour in a very long time. Glad I found you guys.

Best bang for your buck. And Zach behind the bar will make your Wednesday and Friday nights amazing. Watch out for the stairs!

We stop in here whenever were in Chicago. Its small, friendly and a lot of fun. We always leave with a buzz and a smile.

Lets be honest, this place is a very small dive... and its great! I have never felt so welcome or found a warmer community.

Was there 30 minutes before close and they wouldn’t serve me. Was at the rest room for 10 minutes and this place is a joke.

Cutest little gay bar you never did find!

Intimate, lively, busy. Its a small, historic bar! Be ready for a little bit of a wait, its worth it.

Me and my friend went here for something different we had the best time friendly people and everyone was very helpful with my handicap friend I will be visiting again.

Nothing fancy but convenient. Friendly place steps away from the busy Miracle Mile. Relaxed and unpretentious.

Inconceivable that this place isnt rated higher. Mondays and Wednesdays are best.

Great place! Wonderful staff and the customers were great too! Will definitely come back again!

Really bad service at the entrance , bartender nice person , security the worst

The tiny bar had a great atmosphere and strong drinks!

Strong drinks! Tiny bar but so much fun! Nice people :)

Great neighborhood bar

Best little hole in the wall and only downtown gay bar so go and get your drank on

Walk 10 minutes before close and did not accept me plus no sign of the place

Great little hole in the wall - but dont blink when you walk by, youll miss a great time

Love it.... low key get away. Great friendly atmosphere

Small neighborhood tavern. Always great drinks at a fair price

FUN PEOPLE...ALWAYS! CLASSY MATURE MEN...ALWAYS!

Chill, laid back, private setting. Can get crowded sometimes, otherwise very chill

From the reviews Ive read the fruits not worth the squeeze

Almost certain I was drugged here. Not by the bartenders but by a patron. Watch your drinks!

Dive yes ,friendly and a great barDon’t miss it

Great cozy gay bar with cheap, strong drinks.

Too small for me

This is THE best bar in Chicago. Period.

Fun little bar nice people.

Best bar in Chicago, hands down.

Good or bad, youll have a story to tell when you leave.

Great staff and mostly fun customers!

Nice service and great drinks

Great people good service and an awesome atmosphere

A cozy classic in the heart of Downtown.

Small and cramped. Local groups.

Fun dive bar with interesting people

Super cute, tiny place.

All cash bar. Love this place.

Total lack of service even for a dive bar

Super fun when your on your own.

Brian is fab

Oldest gay bar in Chicago😊

A great secret old school gay bar

Funny? Lol

A hidden gem in the middle of downtown Chicago!

Brian Mobley awesome bartender

Good ambience, average service

Amazing gem

Had a great time!

No credit cards......... really ?!?

Watch that bartender...he got mad attitude...

Best dive in the city

Always enjoy it here

On Friday its mobbed

Clicky

When Zac is working.

Love the dive bar feel!!!!!!!!!

Great afternoon bar

Good for hunties

A great bars

Luv the view