The Alderman

Name: The Alderman
Address: 1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL, United States, 60608-2355
Telephone: (312) 243-2410
Price range: $30 and under
Rating: 4.9

4.9

158 Reviews

$30 and under

Cocktail Bar

Top Tags:

THE ALDERMAN is an intimate, 16-seat cocktail concept tucked away, behind closed doors, within Pilsen Yards. With a plush velvet banquette, 4-seat bar counter, and warm lighting, it’s the perfect room for a night cap, date night, or just having one to several astonishingly good cocktails.

The beverage program comes from Chicago’s most award-winning mixologist, Lance Bowman, who rotates half of the cocktail list every two months while perfecting the art of tradition with his riffs on American classics, staples of the cocktail list at The Alderman.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Dec 9, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 21 times today

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Cocktail Bar
Hours of operation
Wed–Sun 4:30 pm–11:00 pm
Phone number
(312) 243-2410
Website
http://www.thealdermanchicago.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Beverage Director Lance Bowman

Location
1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608-2355
Neighborhood
Pilsen
Cross street
Racine
Parking details
Valet or Street Parking Available
Public transit
18th St Pink Line
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Cocktails, Late Night, Private Room

What 158 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.9

4.9 based on recent ratings

4.5Food
4.9Service
4.9Ambience
4.7Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Chicago / Illinois
Best Service
Chicago / Illinois
Best Ambiance
Chicago
Best Service
Chicago
Best Ambiance

158 Reviews

OT
OpenTable Diner
Raleigh
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Absolutely loved our experience. Such unique and fresh takes on all our favourites. Absolutely recommend!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on December 1, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Exceptional spot for craft cocktails and a special date night.
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RO
ReyO
Las Vegas
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 26, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Fantastic as always!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?
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KK
KeeferK
Des Moines
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 25, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our bartender was an absolute riot. . He was playful and was not over bearing when it came to his attentiveness. When I ordered something that was not the best fit for me he promptly made something more my speed without a fuss.From giving us time to enjoy our wonderful date to his outstanding knowledge of cocktails, we will certainly be back. Cheers
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W
Wolfdog
Chicago
30 reviews
vip
5.0
30 reviews
Dined on November 25, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 1
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Wonderful, cozy bar; no food (that's available in the restaurant--Pilsen Yards--that surrounds this "speakeasy" separate room); craft cocktails prepared by Lance, who is convivial and welcoming and will accommodate your taste. Great place to relax with friends over drinks.
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J
Julia
Chicago
5 reviews
vip
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on November 4, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Matt was a fantastic host and the drinks were creative and delicious.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 1, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The Alderman was such a vibe. Lance is THE BEST bartender. Every drink he made was a hit. Loved the experience.
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M
Mahagony
Chicago
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on October 22, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This place is actually a hidden Gem. A great spot for intimate conversation and great cocktails. It's a small but powerful space/place. We loved it, even though the survey wouldn't let me move on as we did not dine there.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Dallas
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on October 16, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had an incredible experience at The Alderman. The mixologist was a master craftsman in his cocktail recommendations and creations. This is a great intimate space and is perfect for a date night.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 8, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing! Matt is incredible and the drinks he makes are the best cocktails I’ve had!! I come back here every time I’m in town :)
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Philadelphia
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 2, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great. Staff they were so helpful , friendly to us
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l
lasttoeat
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 27, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 2
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Didn't eat here, HOWEVER; drinks. were. fire! Matt's presentation of menu choices that fell within our go-to spirits, was thorough and accurate. If they (didn't ask pronouns 🙃) said it was going to be smokey, it was smokey or mentioned earthy notes, it GAVE earthy, mossy, crisp. There was no lie found. The vibes were curated from wall art, low lighting to my fav music bops...my date def got some shoulders rolls, that impressed so my compliments to the chef 💃🏽 Fav: Manhattan 🥃 BRB: Will pull up again. ⚓️
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FR
FoodieRoxy
Denver
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on August 21, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Delicious creative cocktails, intimate ambiance, will definitely be back- staff was great!
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A
Aaron
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 19, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Quite possibly the best date cocktail bar in Chicago. And Lance is the man
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VH
VikiH
Dallas
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 11, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had such an amazing experience at the Alderman!! Highly recommend and will definitely visit again when back in Chicago!!!
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MK
MichaelK
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 30, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Lance is awesome! Gracious with his time. Commands the room!
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JF
JhanusF
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 20, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Best bar in town hands-down. This is my absolute favorite bar in Pilsen. Amazing drinks, great ambience, wonderful space.
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CS
CarolineS
New York Area
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on June 25, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
There is no food actually available, but didn't want to ding the rating. bartender Matt was amazing. Really thoughtful cocktail menu with unique liquors and thought provoking flavor combinations. We had a great time and really enjoyed our drinks!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on June 24, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had reservations at the Milk Room in Downtown. However, after reading some of the reviews someone mentioned The Alderman was much better. My date, already had gone to the Milk Room and so we decided to try our luck! Well… It didn’t disappoint, hands down one the best Speakeasies I ever been to. We knew, they only served drinks so, we had dinner at their restaurant Pilsen Yards conveniently located in the same space. After dinner, we walked a few steps and suddenly you get transported to the 1920’s Prohibition Era. Lance, is by far the best bartender I have ever encounter, he was patient, engaging and his artistry in creating some of the best cocktails we’d ever had blew our minds. You, don’t believe me? Go check it out! I know, I’ll be coming back. All, because of Lance who’s the real MVP!
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GE
GoodEats
Chicago
330 reviews
vip
5.0
330 reviews
Dined on June 23, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This has quickly become one of my favorite cocktail bars in the city. The drinks are fantastic, and the space has a great, cozy vibe. The bartenders - Lance and Matt - are exceptionally talented and take the time to explain the menu and drinks.
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SD
StephenD
Tampa
23 reviews
vip
5.0
23 reviews
Dined on June 22, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This place is awesome! One of the coolest speakeasies in the country hands down. Highly recommend.
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R
Ryan
Omaha
27 reviews
vip
5.0
27 reviews
Dined on June 18, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Calling all cocktail nerds and aficionados! This is the place for you. Excellent craft cocktails, world class skill and knowledge. Creative and original drinks. Small venue where you get personalized attention from experts in their craft. Matt gave us an amazing experience we will be taking about for a long time. Book a reservation and check em out!
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CD
ChelseaD
Chicago
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on June 15, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great bar for unique cocktails in a dim but lively setting
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 15, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Some of the most interesting cocktails I’ve ever tasted. The amount of care that went into every recipe is evident. I can’t wait to return. I’ll be bringing anyone I consider a friend here.
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NF
NancyF
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 13, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Absolutely loved the Alderman; drinks were amazing! Craftsmanship and spirits were beyond creative…can’t wait to visit again…
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CG
ChristinaG
Chicago
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on May 12, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Very cool, swanky yet unpretentious speakeasy. Feels like you’ve stepped into another world for a bit. The cocktails were fantastic and we enjoyed chatting with the bartender!
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OL
Off2ctheLizard
Chicago
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on May 11, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The Alderman NEVER disappoints!!! Brought a friend who was visiting from out of town and she LOVED IT. Such a cool spot to enjoy amazing cocktails and with great service. Hard to find these days! Definitely will be back!
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T
Theresa
Las Vegas
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 7, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great trendy place. Would recommend coming on a date!!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Philadelphia
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on May 7, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Omg get here immediately!!! I was visiting from Philadelphia for my birthday and I am so happy I got the opportunity to visit the alderman! From owner John to bartender Matt Greene and everyone in between, they know hospitality! Sit back, relax, and watch the bartenders do their thing! Matt was so knowledgeable and taught me things I never would have known! The atmosphere is perfect for any special occasion or even a first date! The artwork within is breathtaking! John had great recommendations for my first time out in Chicago! Honestly wish I lived here so I could come here every weekend lol thank you to everyone!
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JF
JmeFW
Indiana
11 reviews
5.0
11 reviews
Dined on May 6, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This little speakeasy with fabulous cocktails is a do not miss! Perfect for date night and trying something new.
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TX
TXgirl
Dallas
7 reviews
vip
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on May 4, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This place is fantastic! Our server, Matt, was incredibly helpful. He explained the different drink profiles and introduced us to Malort, which we learned is a Chicago specialty. The drinks were unique and flavorful. The vibe was awesome -- it was so chill and relaxed. I appreciated the small and intimate setting (it only seats 16). I highly recommend the Alderman and would definitely visit again!
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LS
LuisS
Tampa
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on April 29, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The atmosphere was excellent. The staff was incredibly professional. The cocktails were out of this world.
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AF
AjibadeF
Kansas City
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on April 17, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I really want to downvote this place so you guys don’t go but chances are you’re not going to read this. This is for the staff — phenomenal job. Cocktails are amazing. Feels intimate and I loved my time there
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KB
KaylaB
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 16, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great spot for a private cocktail - date night or with friends.
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G
Graham
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 14, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Such incredible hospitality from Lance. Some of the best cocktails I have ever had
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1
123456
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on April 8, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I recently had the pleasure of visiting The Alderman, a high-end cocktail bar that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I walked in, I was blown away by the stylish decor, attention to detail, and impeccable service. One of the highlights of my experience at The Alderman was the incredible cocktails created by the talented bartender/owner/artist, Lance. They were friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft, and it truly showed in every drink they created. Each cocktail was a masterpiece, perfectly balanced and beautifully presented. I particularly enjoyed Lance being able to make custom off-menu drinks based on my taste, and they're always unique and have a delicious blend of flavors. Lance was happy to explain the ingredients and the inspiration behind the cocktail, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Aside from the amazing cocktails, the ambiance of The Alderman was also impressive. The dim lighting, comfortable seating, and mellow music all contributed to a relaxed and upscale atmosphere that was perfect for a night out. The Lo-Fi Alderman playlist is an absolute must-listen. Overall, I highly recommend The Alderman to anyone looking for a high-end cocktail bar experience. Lance has always gone above and beyond to make sure that every aspect of the evening was exceptional, and I can't wait to visit again in the future.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on March 30, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Always enjoy this place, great drinks, great conversations and the bartender, Lance is top tier
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D
Danny
Chicago
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on March 26, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The ambiance was spectacular and the service was awesome!
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K
Kendall
Chicago
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on March 16, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Very Unique experience. I would go back again. The drinks were amazing, and the bartender earnestly engaged us and provided insight regarding the drinks when asked. I loved the playlist; Great date night local.
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N
Nightstar
Chicago
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on March 10, 2023
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing. Best kept secret in Chicago.
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FAQs

The Alderman is rated 4.9 stars by 158 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Dec 9, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 21 times today

1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608-2355

Additional information

Cross street
Racine
Neighborhood
Pilsen
Hours of operation
Wed–Sun 4:30 pm–11:00 pm
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Cocktail Bar
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Valet or Street Parking Available
Public transit
18th St Pink Line
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Beverage Director Lance Bowman
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Cocktails, Late Night, Private Room

Website
http://www.thealdermanchicago.com/
Phone number
(312) 243-2410

The Alderman

Make a reservation

Additional information

Menu

What 158 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

FAQs

How is The Alderman restaurant rated?

Is The Alderman currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Additional information