The Alderman
Hidden inside Pilsen Yards, The Alderman is a tiny, five-table speakeasy with modern-Prohibition décor, low lighting, and chill hip-hop and R&B—an intimate favorite for date nights and special occasions. Its frequently changing cocktail menu shines with standouts like Lost in Translation, The Karate Kid, Last Word, and an exceptional martini, while warm, knowledgeable bartenders make guests feel at home. Reservations are strongly recommended, and drop-ins may face waits.
What 135 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Had the best experience today at The Alderman. Cesar was our bartender and truly made the entire experience unforgettable. He was warm, welcoming, knowledgeable, and made us feel like we were catching up with an old friend. His energy elevated the whole ambience and made an already beautiful place feel even more special. If you’re looking for a great spot to visit in Pilsen, this is definitely one of them.”
“A small private hidden space inside pilsen yards with delicious drinks put forth to you by the amazing team behind The Alderman. I loved my gin based cocktails with a tart floral note but also enjoyed the personally recommended drinks. My favorite in order are: - last word - midnight revival - lost in translation Highly recommend!”
“This speakeasy is such a vibe. Very cozy, intimate, low lit energy with chill hip hop + R&B playing in the background. Not gonna lie, the candle smell was overwhelming at first, but after like 15 minutes I didn’t even notice it anymore. The service was top tier: attentive, friendly, and clearly know what they’re doing. And the drinks were insane. Some of the best crafted cocktails I’ve had in a long time. My absolute favorite was Lost in Translation, but also highly recommend The Karate Kid, Coquito, and Marlboro Mistress. Every single one was a hit. Prices are definitely worth it for the quality. Call ahead and make a reservation, you get a 1.5 hour slot and it’s 100% the move.”
“This place is absolutely amazing. Words cannot describe, atmosphere is a vibe!Cocktails are balanced very well curated. The bartender Roger is very knowledgeable. Couldn’t ask for more. This place is a must. I will be back and soon.”
“Amazing speakeasy! Beautiful interior and even more beautifully crafted cocktails! The Karate Kid is exceptional!!”
“Without a doubt worth of all the awards it’s won (best bar in Chicago 2022). Tiny spot - only 5 tables, reservations seriously required - hidden inside Pilsen Yards. Decor & vibe is “modern prohibition”, if there is such a thing, and you’re immediately transported into another world where the cocktails are amazing: unique, intelligent, well travelled & creative creations that are beyond compare. An amazing experience - you must go!”
“came here for date night with my love. the drinks were so creative & the bartender was very knowledgeable and passionate about mixology. my favorite was the martini- i order those frequently at different establishments across the country & THIS was the BEST i've ever had- i wont describe it in detail bc words dont do it justice (my bf hates gin & doesnt like martinis, but he loved this one too- not liked, LOVED).”
“Beautiful speakeasy and amazing bartender! It is completely candle-lit!”
“I had made a reservation at The Alderman after hearing fabulous things about about it from a friend who lives nearby. Upon arrival, my party learned there was an error where the speakeasy was closed for a private event, but the booking software didn’t register the block, so we were unable to enter. The owner of Pilsen Yards - a restaurant I also recommend - was there and offered a delightful experience to make up for the mistake. He seated us at a booth in the main restaurant and chatted with us for a while. He brought us the speakeasy cocktail menu and told us they’d bring us a comped round of drinks from The Alderman. We were then greeted by the Alderman bartender who walked us through the menu and gave us a refreshing sipper to start. The drinks we both had were fabulous. I had a seasonal drink, the Chopped and Screwed. The flower inside the ice cube was a wonderful way to give the drink’s appearance some flare. While we were disappointed to not be able to sit in the speakeasy, things happen! The service and drinks absolutely made up for the whole thing. Couldn’t recommend both Pilsen Yards and the Alderman more. Thank you to you and your staff, John!”
“Wonderful speakeasy! Scotty and the other guy bartender went above and beyond to give us a great experience. Great drinks and atmosphere!”
“Cocktail menu is elevated yet approachable. Few places in Chicago doing drinks like this. Highly recommend!”
“Best cocktail bar in the city. Cozy and yet classy, elegant but not snobby. Bartenders are so good they match the excellence of the drinks, which are creative, tasty, and have plenty of plenty of breadth. With making a reservation for - tiny space, my only regret is it’s hard to just drop in.”
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