When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Larry's at The Lawrence House
Why Larry's at The Lawrence House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Larry's at The Lawrence House is a charming cocktail bar located in the lobby of The Lawrence House apartments in Uptown Chicago. Known for its intimate setting and creative cocktail menu, it is an ideal spot for meeting up with friends to enjoy quality drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. The bar offers both classic cocktails and inventive creations from the team behind Heritage Bicycles and Heritage Bikes & Coffee, making it a favorite among locals for its craft cocktail expertise. The ambiance features nostalgic, low lighting complemented by vintage art, a curved stained-glass skylight, and geometric chandeliers, which create a warm and inviting environment. Beyond the cozy indoor space, Larry's features a spacious back patio during warmer months, complete with a satellite patio bar, fire pit, and comfortable seating including day beds, perfect for casual gatherings and people-watching. The availability of multiple seating options, including couches, armchairs, and tables with built-in electrical outlets, also makes it a versatile place for both socializing and working. Open from late afternoon into the evening throughout most of the week, Larry's delivers a unique blend of historic charm, excellent drinks, and a friendly vibe that makes it a great place to meet friends for cocktails or relax before a show at the nearby Aragon Ballroom.
Here's what people think of Larry's at The Lawrence House
As of recent, Larry's at The Lawrence House holds a 4.7-star rating based on 261 reviews.
Reviews from patrons of Larry's at The Lawrence House consistently praise the quality and creativity of the cocktails. Many highlight the friendly and knowledgeable bartenders who craft both classic and unique drinks, making for a memorable drinking experience. The ambiance also receives frequent mention; reviewers appreciate the intimate, vintage-style decor and the relaxing atmosphere, which includes comfortable seating and a beautiful stained-glass skylight. The back patio is a particular favorite during the warmer months, offering a pleasant outdoor space with additional seating and a fire pit. Positive reviews often note the bar's welcoming vibe and the convenience of its location within The Lawrence House, making it a popular pre-show spot for concerts at the Aragon. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the small size of the bar, which can feel cramped or crowded during peak times. A few reviewers mention limited food options and occasional wait times for drinks. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is that Larry's offers excellent value for craft cocktails in a unique, comfortable setting. The bar’s high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 260 reviews reflects widespread satisfaction and indicates it as a reliable choice for cocktail enthusiasts and social groups alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
leonardo ruivo
went out for a few drinks before aragorn. cool atmosphere: is so nice having drinks in a lobby. good happy hour prices
Noah Manternach
I won't rate the food because it's only snacks. They do have menus from nearby restaurants though, which is really cool. This is a wonderful cocktail bar. The bartenders are really good at what they do. I think Luke is usually working when I go there? He is really good at what he does and super fun to watch. Very precise and intentional with the way he makes drinks. I always feel very welcome and relaxed here. It is sort of strange that it is in the base of an apartment complex. I think if I lived here I would be a bit weirded out by all of these strangers in the lobby of my building. It's nice to get drinks and then go wherever in the lobby, at the bar, or out in the back patio area of the building. Trivia on Wednesdays is always fun as well.
Viraj Mhatre
Unique cocktail bar located inside a building Lawrence House. The bartender is very interactive. Good collection of alcohol. Nice seating area. Only drinks are available. No food. You can get wines and beer too. Loved the ambiance and the vibe.
DJ King GNS
A very chill place that you wouldn't think is also a bar. My friends & I had a great time & even had chats with some residents of the building (see the friendly dog?). We went on a Saturday night and the bartender was great. We were able to engage him about beverage history. I didn't know Schlitz was originally a Chicago brand until he told us! I'm definitely going back there & will leave a more detailed review with better photos. I assume my friend hoisting his partner in the air is not normal behavior for Larry's, but we liked the place that much. 😅
Jonas Chavez
Larry’s at the Lawrence House is like that artsy friend who doesn’t try too hard but somehow still pulls off wearing a hat indoors. It’s a cozy little cocktail bar with just enough personality to make you think “Yeah, I could totally be a regular here.” The drinks are surprisingly creative… like someone gave a mixologist an improv prompt and they actually nailed it. Definitely some brownie points for the cocktail menu. I ordered something with three ingredients I couldn’t pronounce and it tasted like a summer vacation I can’t afford. Vibes are chill, lighting is flattering (thank you Larry) and it doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is refreshing in a world full of $22 martinis. Overall, solid spot. Go if you want to feel like you’re in on a secret. Just don’t tell too many people.
How to reach Larry's at The Lawrence House
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Why Larry's at The Lawrence House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Larry’s at The Lawrence House with your friends? Because it offers the perfect blend of cozy intimacy, stylish ambiance, and genuine hospitality that turns any group gathering into a memorable occasion. This cocktail bar, nestled in the lobby of the historic Lawrence House in Uptown Chicago, feels like the kind of place where everyone belongs—whether you're reconnecting with old friends or making new ones. With a 4.7-star rating from over 260 reviews, Larry’s combines top-tier craft cocktails with a relaxed vibe that is both sophisticated and approachable. The bartenders, especially if Luke is behind the bar, create perfectly balanced drinks that match the atmosphere—a low-lit, nostalgic setting that invokes the charm of a speakeasy but without any pretentiousness. The lighting, music, and welcoming crowd foster an environment that invites long conversations, laughter, and shared moments. Add to this the ability to bring in your favorite takeout from nearby restaurants, and you have the ideal social playground where the focus is truly on enjoying what matters: good drinks, good company, and good times.
What activities await at Larry’s that make it ideal for a group meetup? Larry’s is first and foremost a craft cocktail bar specializing in creative and classic drinks. The cocktail menu, designed by expert mixologist Benjamin Schiller, offers imaginative combinations like mescal with grilled pineapple and hazelnut or wheat bourbon mingled with coffee and pipe tobacco. These unique flavor profiles make every visit something to savor and discuss. Besides outstanding drinks, the venue has a stylish yet comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of a university reading room, with gold lamps and a stained glass ceiling, providing plenty of table space for small to medium-sized groups. You can settle into the warm lighting indoors or, in warmer months, enjoy the back patio—a perfect setting for friendly chatter surrounded by Uptown’s vibrant energy. The bar’s open-door policy on food lets you bring in outside meals, so groups can customize their evening experience with dishes from local favorites like Tank Noodle’s pho, which pairs brilliantly with the cocktails. For groups looking for a low-key yet memorable outing with excellent service, Larry’s balances sophistication with a neighborhood feel that is rare to find.
What is the ambiance like, and why does it appeal to different types of groups? Larry’s atmosphere is a key reason why people choose it for gatherings. It feels like a hybrid between a fashionable speakeasy and a welcoming living room hosted by a knowledgeable and friendly friend. Imagine walking into a dimly lit space where the stained glass and antique lamps provide gentle illumination, creating an intimate setting that encourages conversation. The music is carefully curated to complement the mood—uplifting without overpowering—so friends and family can catch up without shouting. The crowd is calm and respectful, making it ideal for both casual meetups and celebratory occasions. This low-key but stylish vibe attracts a mix of clientele, from cocktail aficionados and local regulars to visitors looking for an authentic Uptown experience. Whether your group consists of young professionals, couples on a date night, or families venturing out after dinner, Larry’s ambiance supports a relaxed yet refined gathering.
How does the cocktail menu enhance a group’s experience? At Larry’s, the cocktail menu is crafted with an artistic touch, designed to delight both the traditional and the adventurous drinker. The beverage director has blended unusual ingredients like cedar smoke, Unicorn Blood coffee, and grilled pineapple into drinks that surprise and satisfy. This commitment to quality and creativity elevates the bar beyond just a place for a drink; it becomes a tasting adventure for groups who enjoy exploring new flavors together. The cocktails are priced reasonably between $10 and $20, which encourages sampling and sharing among friends. Bartenders take pride in preparing each drink with precision and care, making interactions at the bar both friendly and educational. This engagement turns cocktail ordering into a social event itself, sparking conversations about taste and mixology that bond groups beyond just the drinks. It’s also noteworthy that the bartending team welcomes outside food, so groups can pair these inventive drinks with their preferred comfort foods, enhancing the overall experience.
What practical aspects make Larry’s well-suited for meetups with friends or family? From an accessibility standpoint, Larry’s is welcoming and inclusive, with wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms, ensuring everyone in your group is accommodated comfortably. Its location within the Lawrence House puts it close to numerous dining options and attractions in Uptown Chicago, making it an ideal pre- or post-dinner locale. The venue’s hours, from late afternoon through midnight or later on weekends, provide flexibility for gatherings that start early or run late into the night. The availability of a patio during warmer months expands the social space and offers a refreshing outdoor environment. Larry’s also welcomes dogs, so pet owners don’t have to leave their furry friends at home, adding an extra layer of comfort for groups inclusive of animal lovers. While the bar can get busy, especially on weekends, the staff’s efficiency and friendly demeanor help keep wait times manageable. These factors contribute to a hassle-free, enjoyable outing for any group size or occasion.
Why is Larry’s at The Lawrence House a standout choice compared to other bars nearby? Beyond its strong reviews, Larry’s distinguishes itself with a unique combination of atmosphere, cocktail craftsmanship, and community feel. Unlike many neighborhood bars that focus solely on volume or speed, Larry’s prioritizes quality and connection. Its distinct vintage decor—gold lamps, stained glass ceilings, and an old-library vibe—creates a sense of escape from the typical bar scene. The cocktails are not only creative but thoughtfully balanced, appealing to both novices and connoisseurs alike. The service goes beyond standard bartending, offering a welcoming “Cheers”-like ambiance where regulars are known by name and newcomers quickly feel at home. The bar also encourages guests to bring their own food, which many places don’t allow, so groups gain flexibility to enjoy their favorite dishes alongside cocktails. This combination of character, quality, service, and inclusiveness makes Larry’s a rare jewel in Chicago’s nightlife landscape, perfect for hosting memorable gatherings.
How can groups maximize their visit to Larry’s for special occasions or casual meetups? For celebrations or casual outings, groups should plan an early arrival on weekends to secure their spot, as the bar gets lively and crowded. Taking advantage of the outdoor patio during warm seasons offers a refreshing change of scenery and an excellent setting for photos and conversation. Exploring the cocktail menu methodically, perhaps by ordering several drinks to share and compare, turns the evening into a delightful tasting experience. Groups can bring in meals from neighboring establishments, which enhances the evening without the pressure of conforming to a bar’s limited menu. Making a point to chat with the bartenders can enrich the experience, as their expertise and passion often lead to personalized recommendations and stories behind the drinks. To keep the night comfortable, wearing smart casual attire fits well with the bar’s upscale yet relaxed vibe. Overall, embracing Larry’s unique blend of ambiance, creativity, and community elevates any group meetup into a cherished event.
In summary, Larry’s at The Lawrence House offers an unbeatable combination of charm, quality, and warmth that makes it an exceptional venue for gatherings with friends or family. With its expertly crafted cocktails, welcoming and accessible space, dog-friendly policy, and relaxed yet tasteful environment, it caters to a wide variety of group needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a cozy place to unwind, a lively spot to celebrate, or a stylish backdrop to catch up, Larry’s delivers on all fronts. Its strong 4.7-star rating and glowing reviews attest to the consistently excellent experiences it provides. For any group looking to rally around great drinks, conversation, and an inviting atmosphere, Larry’s at The Lawrence House stands out as a top choice in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood.