When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Nine Bar
Why Nine Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nine Bar offers a unique dual-atmosphere experience ideal for meet-ups with friends, blending the mystery of a hidden speakeasy with the lively vibe of a live piano bar. Located in Chicago’s Chinatown inside Moon Palace Express, this speakeasy immerses visitors in a narrow, dark room illuminated with neon accents, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a Tron scene. The upbeat hip-hop music and comfortable couches provide a perfect balance of energy and relaxation, encouraging socializing without the pressure of loud distractions. The food menu, though concise, features delightful options such as zesty mapo fries and a pork cutlet sandwich with tonkatsu sauce, perfectly paired with inventive cocktails like a Chinese five-spice Old Fashioned. Across the country, Bar Nine in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen offers a famed live dueling piano bar experience, where patrons enjoy an interactive, all-request musical show performed by talented musicians who engage with the audience, creating memorable evenings. This lively atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for friends and couples seeking an engaging night out. Both iterations of Nine Bar provide distinct yet equally inviting environments that emphasize great music, tasty drinks, and a welcoming social scene, making it an ideal place to gather and make lasting memories with friends.
Here's what people think of Nine Bar
As of recent, Nine Bar holds a 4.5-star rating based on 375 reviews.
Reviews of Nine Bar in Chicago highlight its cool, neon-lit speakeasy atmosphere and relaxed yet energetic vibe. Many customers praised the friendly staff and the quality of unique cocktails, especially the Old Fashioned with Chinese five-spice. The food, while limited in selection, was noted for standout items like the mapo fries and pork cutlet sandwich, which complement the drinks well. Positive reviews emphasize the bar’s great ambiance for both casual chilling and lively socializing on comfy couches, making it a great spot for getting together with friends. Conversely, some reviewers mentioned the limited food menu and narrow space as minor drawbacks, suggesting it may not be ideal for larger groups or those seeking extensive dining options, but these did not significantly detract from the overall experience. Bar Nine in New York City is lauded for its exceptional live dueling piano performances, with guests enjoying the musicians’ impressive skill and interactive style that creates a fun and memorable night. Some negative feedback related to needing advance reservations and the entrance fee, but most found these worthwhile for the quality of entertainment. In conclusion, both versions of Nine Bar uphold their reputations as inviting, vibrant venues with high-quality drinks and entertainment, garnering overall positive reviews that highlight their appeal for socializing and enjoying live music.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A.J.
Had a decent experience here overall. The bar is inside a store called, “Moon Palace Express”. When we came in, we asked if this was Nine Bar and got a bit of attitude from the guy at the front. The place has a decent amount of seating. The tables along the wall aren’t really appropriately sized cos you can’t put your legs under them, so they should be a bit taller. The cocktails were on the sweeter side. Tried the cold noodles and they were decent. I liked the crispiness of the grilled chicken.
Michael Damato
Located inside "moon palace" this speak easy esq bar features a very good selection of Asian inspired cocktails, some small bites, and a wonderful atmosphere. Decor is great, noise level is about perfect for this kind of space, and staff were very friendly. Y'all need to let Tim moonlight as a bartender more often 😉
rick wright
Nice bar, good drinks and good food. Went on a Sunday and it wasn't crowded or deserted. Just a nice vibe with good (house)music.
Gurleen Kaur
A hidden gem of Chinatown! I absolutely love everything about Nine Bar. The hidden entrance makes you feel like you’re in a secret club and I love the intimate environment. There’s still a good amount of seating for smaller groups and the service is quick and attentive. I loved the loaded fries and they paired perfectly with their fun cocktails. I’ll definitely be coming back!
John Lawler
Lowkey Chinatown speakeasy that gets quite busy - for good reason. Vibes are perfect here, excellent atmosphere, lighting, bartenders, specialty drinks and drink specials, and to top it all off - a private DJ booth to always keep the mood just right. Vibes are absolutely off the charts. Love the seating, bar, and everything about this place. I'd be here every night if I could. Absolutely do not sleep on nine bar if you're in the area at night. Great vibes for small groups of 2-6 or so.
How to reach Nine Bar
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Why Nine Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nine Bar with your friends?
Choosing a spot to gather with friends can make all the difference in creating memorable moments, and Nine Bar in Chicago stands out as an exceptional destination. This hidden speakeasy, tucked inside Moon Palace Express in Chinatown, combines a unique atmosphere with superb drinks and cozy spaces designed for socializing. Stepping into Nine Bar feels like entering a captivating scene from a movie, with its narrow, dark room illuminated by neon accent lights reminiscent of Tron. The lively yet relaxed vibe, driven by upbeat hip-hop music, strikes the perfect balance — it energizes the crowd without overwhelming conversation or comfort. This makes it ideal for a night out with friends where you want both great cocktails and a chill space to catch up. The seating options, including comfy couches, invite groups to relax and linger over shared snacks and drinks. Plus, it’s conveniently located near public transit and popular Chicago neighborhoods, enabling easy group meetups. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 375 reviews, Nine Bar has earned a reputation not only for its inventive cocktails and tasty bar food but also for being a welcoming, approachable environment where groups feel right at home.
What activities does Nine Bar offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Nine Bar offers a blend of activities and experiences geared toward social connection and enjoyment, making it a perfect venue for groups. Primarily, its well-curated cocktail menu stands out as a centerpiece activity; the bar crafts unique drinks such as an Old Fashioned enhanced with Chinese five-spice, introducing exciting flavor profiles that spark conversation and delight adventurous palates. Because the cocktail bar is the heart of the venue, groups can spend quality time sampling a variety of inventive drinks prepared by skilled bartenders who balance boldness with smoothness.
Alongside the cocktails, Nine Bar offers a small but thoughtfully designed food menu that plays a supportive role in the social experience. Sharing their zesty mapo fries or the pork cutlet sandwich with tonkatsu sauce offers a communal element that encourages friends to break bread together and savor localized flavors that complement the drink selections. The food is reasonably priced and caters perfectly to group dining without overwhelming the palate or the wallet.
Beyond food and drink, the interior layout fosters socializing. The neon-lit, intimate, tunnel-like space draws groups closer physically and emotionally, creating a cozy enclave perfect for lively discussions or quiet conversations alike. Seating on plush couches allows groups to spread out comfortably without feeling cramped. The music—hip-hop with an upbeat but not overpowering energy—adds to the vibrancy without derailing the chance to talk and connect. In sum, Nine Bar isn’t just a place to eat or drink; it’s designed to be a multifunctional social hub where groups can engage in tasting, talking, relaxing, and celebrating together.
How accessible and welcoming is Nine Bar for groups?
Accessibility and a welcoming atmosphere are critical factors for any group meetup, and Nine Bar excels on both fronts. Located in Chicago’s Chinatown, it’s conveniently close to the Red Line and nearby landmarks like Springhill Suites hotel, making it easy for groups traveling from different parts of the city or visiting guests to arrive together without hassle. Its hidden speakeasy style inside Moon Palace Express offers a sense of discovery and exclusivity that elevates the outing without creating barriers of pretentiousness. Reviews highlight that Nine Bar manages to rival well-known upscale cocktail venues without any “attitude,” which means groups can feel comfortable regardless of whether they are cocktail novices or connoisseurs.
The staff, including the bartenders and servers, receive frequent praise for being friendly, approachable, and attentive, enhancing the overall group experience. A welcoming team reduces the stress of coordinating orders and provides helpful recommendations that delight the entire group, from first-timers to regulars. The venue’s subtle lighting and layout also mean that noise levels and group size do not negatively impact comfort, so even larger parties can enjoy intimate conversations without feeling overwhelmed by the environment. Whether it’s an after-work gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a casual meetup, Nine Bar’s accessibility and friendliness make it an inclusive, low-stress option.
What makes the food and drink at Nine Bar stand out for a fun night out?
Nine Bar’s food and drink offerings are a major highlight that distinguish it from other bars in Chicago. The cocktail program is particularly noteworthy, featuring bespoke drinks that blend classic techniques with inventive ingredients. For example, the use of Chinese five-spice in an Old Fashioned cocktail is a bold twist that reflects the bar’s Chinatown setting and adds a unique cultural flavor dimension, making the tasting experience both playful and memorable. These signature drinks serve as conversation starters and elevate the group's outing beyond standard bar fare.
The menu, although small and focused, is crafted to complement the cocktails perfectly. Items like the mapo fries deliver zesty, umami-rich flavors that pair wonderfully with the bold cocktails, while the pork cutlet sandwich offers a comforting, hearty option with a twist thanks to the tonkatsu sauce. This balance of snacks and small plates encourages sharing and sampling, key components of group dining dynamics. Pricing is also reasonable, which is an important consideration for group outings where cost efficiency matters alongside quality.
Combining flavorful, thoughtful food with craft cocktails creates a multi-sensory experience that keeps groups engaged and satisfied. The careful menu design highlights quality over quantity, ensuring that every bite and sip is worth savoring. For groups seeking excitement in taste alongside a comfortable social atmosphere, Nine Bar’s culinary offerings are a major draw.
Why is the ambiance at Nine Bar ideal for socializing with friends and family?
Ambiance plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall meetup experience, and Nine Bar’s environment is crafted to elevate social interaction. Entering the bar, guests find themselves in a dimly lit, narrow space enlivened by neon accents that create a futuristic, almost cinematic glow. This distinct aesthetic sets the tone for an adventurous yet intimate evening, instantly differentiating it from typical bar environments cluttered with harsh lighting or generic decor.
The overall vibe blends upbeat energy from lively hip-hop tunes with a relaxed, chill atmosphere that encourages guests to settle in rather than rush through their visit. The music volume and style are carefully calibrated to provide background rhythm without overwhelming conversation, inviting groups to talk freely and engage with each other meaningfully. Comfortable seating options, especially the cozy couches, create natural gathering points for friends and families looking to unwind, share stories, or celebrate special occasions together.
Moreover, the narrow layout fosters a uniquely close-knit feeling, perfect for building camaraderie and ensuring no one feels isolated even in a crowd. This combination of visual appeal, sonic energy, and physical comfort makes Nine Bar an environment that invites extended hangouts, fostering connection and creating lasting memories among everyone gathered. For anyone searching for a spot where the ambiance itself amplifies togetherness, Nine Bar stands out as an outstanding choice.
How does Nine Bar compare to other social venues in Chicago?
When evaluating social venues in Chicago, Nine Bar holds a distinct niche as a well-executed speakeasy with a twist, particularly notable for those who prioritize quality cocktails in a unique setting. Compared to mainstream bars or louder nightclubs, Nine Bar offers a sophisticated yet approachable environment. Reviewers often compare it favorably to other famous venues like West Loop’s Blind Barber but emphasize Nine Bar’s lack of pretension and more welcoming atmosphere, which broadly appeals to both locals and visitors.
Its Chinatown location sets it apart from bars clustered in more traditional nightlife districts. This grants Nine Bar a culturally vibrant backdrop and a chance to experience part of Chicago’s diverse fabric. Additionally, it is much less crowded than hectic spots while retaining lively energy, striking a rare balance many groups seek. The combination of inventive cocktails, signature small plates, and the attentive service team further elevates it above average neighborhood bars.
For groups wanting a happening spot yet one that feels exclusive and intimate rather than noisy or overly packed, Nine Bar presents an ideal alternative. Its glowing 4.5-star rating from hundreds of reviews further attests to consistent customer satisfaction. Whether for casual meetups or special celebrations, Nine Bar’s mix of atmosphere, accessibility, and quality has earned it a reputation as one of Chicago’s premier spots to socialize meaningfully.
What practical tips can help groups make the most of their Nine Bar experience?
To fully enjoy a group meetup at Nine Bar, some practical considerations help maximize the experience. First, planning for peak hours—typically between 6 pm and 10 pm—is advised since the bar can get busy but remains approachable without long waits. Arriving early or making informal reservations (if available) can help ensure the group settles into comfortable seating well-suited for conversation and sharing plates.
Since the food menu is concise but highlights a few must-try items like mapo fries and pork cutlet sandwiches, groups are encouraged to order several different dishes to share, creating a fun and communal tasting experience. Asking the friendly bartenders for cocktail recommendations tailored to your group’s preferences can also enhance the evening by discovering unique, tailored drinks.
Dressing smart-casual aligns well with the venue’s trendy but relaxed vibe, allowing guests to feel comfortable yet stylish. Remembering Nine Bar’s speakeasy character means expecting a somewhat intimate, possibly cozier space—you’ll want to encourage friendly, relaxed engagement rather than large, rowdy behavior.
Lastly, take advantage of the nearby Chinatown neighborhood before or after the visit to extend the outing with cultural exploration, meals from other cuisines, or casual strolls, making the meetup an all-encompassing experience beyond the bar itself.
In sum, Nine Bar’s distinctive offerings, welcoming atmosphere, and accessible location make it an outstanding choice for gathering with friends or family. Carefully planning your visit to take advantage of its unique food, drinks, and ambiance will ensure a meetup that stands out as both enjoyable and memorable.