Top 10 Best Cider Bars in Chicago

Forbidden Root stands apart by incorporating botanical ingredients into their brewing philosophy, resulting in ciders that taste like nothing else in Chicago. The West Town location combines restaurant, bar, and brewery into a multi-purpose space that works equally well for dinner dates or casual drinks. Their unique approach to cider-making includes herbs and spices that might sound experimental but deliver surprisingly balanced results. The menu of elevated pub fare provides substantial food options that make this more than just a drinking destination.

Goose Island's Fulton Street taproom represents Chicago brewing royalty, and while beer built their empire, their cider offerings showcase the same commitment to quality. The massive industrial space feels like a destination event venue, with brewery tours adding educational value to your visit. Their house-made ciders rotate seasonally and often experiment with barrel-aging techniques borrowed from their beer program. Families, tourists, and beer geeks all find common ground here, making it one of the city's most democratic drinking destinations.

Maplewood's Logan Square outpost proves that distilleries can do cider justice, with a thoughtfully curated selection that complements their house spirits and beers. The sprawling industrial space with garage doors and communal tables creates a festive atmosphere perfect for larger groups celebrating special occasions. While their gin and whiskey get most of the attention, insiders know their cider list features some hard-to-find Midwest producers. The outdoor patio becomes one of the neighborhood's most sought-after hangouts when weather permits.

The Dearborn operates in a different league as a full-service restaurant with a surprisingly robust cider program that complements their upscale American cuisine. Located in the Theater District, it's the rare spot where you can enjoy a refined cider alongside elevated dishes in an atmosphere that balances sophistication with accessibility. Their seasonal cider cocktails showcase how versatile the beverage can be when handled by skilled bartenders. Pre-theater diners and business lunches dominate the clientele, so expect a more polished crowd than your typical taproom.

The Beer Temple has become a pilgrimage site for beverage enthusiasts, with a cider selection that rivals establishments twice its size. This Avondale hybrid bar and bottle shop stocks rare imports and limited releases that sell out within days, so regulars check their social media religiously for new arrivals. The industrial space feels authentically Chicago with exposed brick and a no-frills approach that lets the beverages shine. Their staff's encyclopedic knowledge means you'll leave educated and well-stocked from their retail section.

Navigator Taproom has earned its reputation as Logan Square's go-to spot for serious cider aficionados seeking variety beyond the mainstream. Their 50+ rotating taps include a consistently impressive cider selection that spans from bone-dry Spanish sidra to sweet New England styles. The neighborhood vibe skews casual and welcoming, with a younger crowd that appreciates the expertly curated beverage program and lack of pretension. Late-night hours and a dog-friendly patio make this a versatile choice for various occasions.

Tucked on the second floor of Michigan Avenue's shopping district, Crushed By Giants offers an unexpected escape from the Magnificent Mile madness below. While primarily a brewery, their cider program punches well above its weight with carefully selected craft ciders that complement their house-brewed beers. The industrial-chic space with floor-to-ceiling windows provides excellent people-watching opportunities over Michigan Avenue, making it a solid choice for tourists and shoppers needing a sophisticated break. Their artisan flatbreads pair surprisingly well with drier cider styles.

Bitter Pops operates as part bar, part bottle shop, making it a dream destination for cider enthusiasts who want to drink now and stock up for later. The Lakeview location boasts an exceptionally curated selection with knowledgeable staff who can guide you through their 200+ bottle selection spanning traditional French cidre to funky American wild ferments. The cozy, cafe-style atmosphere makes it perfect for solo exploration or intimate gatherings, and their retail section means you can take your discoveries home. Their cider and cheese pairing boards have become legendary among Lincoln Avenue regulars.

ERIS stands out as one of Chicago's only dedicated cider houses that actually brews their own ciders on-site, giving you access to experimental small-batch releases you can't find anywhere else. The Irving Park location strikes the perfect balance between neighborhood hangout and serious cider destination, with a laid-back atmosphere that encourages lingering. Their house-made ciders rotate seasonally, but the hopped cider has developed a cult following among regulars. Groups will appreciate the communal seating and generous happy hour specials that make this a Northwest Side favorite.

Perched along Chicago's iconic Riverwalk, The Northman delivers arguably the city's most picturesque cider-drinking experience with stunning views of the Chicago River and skyline. Their European-inspired cider garden aesthetic pairs perfectly with an impressive rotating selection of hard ciders alongside Nordic-influenced bar bites. The outdoor seating becomes prime real estate during warmer months, making it ideal for date nights or post-work wind-downs. Don't miss their seasonal cider flights that showcase both local and imported varieties you won't find elsewhere in the city.