Chicago’s diverse culinary scene is renowned for its BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurants, which offer diners the chance to enjoy their favorite drinks without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or prefer your favorite beer, these restaurants have something for everyone.
If Italian food is your favorite, there are plenty of cozy eateries that allow you to bring your own bottle. For sushi lovers, trendy spots offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy your favorite drinks alongside fresh sushi rolls. And for those craving Middle Eastern flavors, there are BYOB restaurants that serve up delicious plates with a variety of options.
Find the best BYOB restaurants in Chicago with our list bottle friendly restaurants with delicious food!
BYOB Restaurants in Chicago
River North
- STK – Get ready to pop open that bottle of wine you’ve been saving! This upscale steakhouse charges a $35 corkage fee for wine bottles not on their list.
- Sushi Mon – Sip, sip, hooray! This sushi spot offers no corkage fee for diners who bring their own beer, sake, or wine.
West Loop
- Rose Mary – Toast to a delicious meal! This Croatian restaurant allows diners to bring up to 2 bottles of wine for a $25 corkage fee per bottle.
- La Storia – Wine not? This Italian restaurant allows diners to bring wine only, with a $25 corkage fee per bottle.
- Macello – Pour yourself a glass! This Italian restaurant charges a $20 corkage fee per bottle of wine.
- BLVD Steakhouse – Bring on the bubbly! This steakhouse allows diners to bring up to 2 bottles of wine for a $25 corkage fee per bottle.
- Nia – Sip, savor, and enjoy! This Mediterranean restaurant allows diners to bring up to 2 bottles of wine for a $25 corkage fee per bottle.
- Marisol at the MCA – Cheers to a night out! This contemporary American restaurant allows diners to bring their own wine for a $30 corkage fee.
Bucktown/Wicker Park
- Seadog Sushi Bar – Say cheers to free corkage! This sushi spot allows diners to bring their own wine, beer, or sake with no corkage fee.
- Enso Sushi & Bar – Raise a glass to a great night! This sushi spot allows diners to bring one bottle of wine per reservation, Sunday through Thursday.
- Arami – Sake to me! This Japanese restaurant offers sake, wine, and craft cocktails, with a corkage fee for guests bringing their own wine.
- CheSa’s Bistro & Bar – Wine not bring your own? This American restaurant offers gluten-free, organic, and non-GMO meals, and allows diners to bring their own wine.
- Anteprima – Bring your favorite bottle of wine and cheers to good company! This Italian restaurant allows diners to bring one 750ml bottle of wine per table of 4 guests, with a $35 corkage fee per bottle.
Lakeview/East Lakeview
- Chilam Balam – Spice up your night out! Diners can bring their own wine and enjoy seasonal Mexican dishes and shared plates with a farm-fresh twist, with a limit of one 750ml bottle or one pack of beer per party of two.
- Tanuki – Sake it to me! This Japanese restaurant allows diners to bring their own beer, wine, or sake, with a limit of one bottle per two people or a six-pack of beer.
- Rollapalooza – Roll on in with your favorite bottle of wine! This sushi spot offers free corkage and full BYOB.
- Pacles Nomades – It’s wine o’clock somewhere! This contemporary French restaurant offers no corkage fee on Thursday evenings, with a limit of one bottle per two guests.
- Marisol at the MCA – Savor the flavor of your own wine! This contemporary American restaurant allows diners to bring their own wine for a $30 corkage fee.
Andersonville
- Andies Restaurant – Say cheers to free corkage! With a Mediterranean menu, this restaurant offers free corkage fee on Mondays.
- Anteprima – Bring your own bottle and raise a glass! This Italian restaurant allows diners to bring one 750ml bottle of wine per table of 4 guests, with a $35 corkage fee per bottle.
Lincoln Park
- Toro Sushi – Sushi and wine, oh my! This sushi spot in Lincoln Park offers fresh sushi and allows diners to bring their own beer, sake, or wine for a corkage fee.
- Royal Highness Zhu – Wine not bring your own bottle? This Chinese (Sichuan) restaurant allows diners to bring their own wine with no corkage fee.
- Goosefoot – Sip and savor! This contemporary American restaurant offers wine, beer, and spirits.
Pilsen
- Frida Room – Spice up your meal with your own drinks! This Mexican restaurant offers innovative Latin American dining with an international twist, and is BYOB.
Tips for Dining at BYOB Restaurants
What are BYOB Restaurants?
BYOB, short for Bring Your Own Bottle, is a fun and affordable way to enjoy a night out at a restaurant. This can be a great way to save money, as you can purchase your drinks cheaper from a liquor store. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all restaurants allow BYOB, and those that do may have specific rules and regulations.
Some may charge a corkage fee, while others may have restrictions on the type or amount of alcohol that can be brought in. So, make sure to check with the restaurant before bringing your own drinks to avoid any surprises.
Corkage Fees
Many BYOB restaurants in Chicago charge a corkage fee for customers who bring their own wine or beer. This fee covers the cost of opening and serving the beverage. The fee amount varies among restaurants, so it is recommended to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website for specific details.
Before you plan your BYOB dinner, be sure to check if your favorite spot has any limitations on what you can bring. Don’t get caught off guard – some places only allow wine, while others are more lenient with beer and spirits. Play it safe and give them a call beforehand.
Reservations
Reservations are highly recommended when dining at BYOB restaurants in Chicago, especially for larger groups. This will ensure that the restaurant is prepared to accommodate your party and that there is enough space for your alcohol. It is also a good idea to confirm the BYOB policy when making your reservation to avoid any confusion.
Additionally, it is important to arrive on time for your reservation, as some restaurants may have a strict seating schedule due to limited space.
Conclusion
Chicago is a city that offers a diverse range of dining experiences, and BYOB restaurants are no exception. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, sushi, or contemporary American cuisine, there’s a BYOB restaurant in Chicago that will satisfy your cravings.
While some BYOB restaurants charge a corkage fee, it’s still a great way to save money on your dining experience. Plus, it allows you to bring your favorite wine or beer to enjoy with your meal. Overall, BYOB restaurants in Chicago are a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. These restaurants offer unique menus and cozy atmospheres that make for a memorable dining experience.
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