Green Chicago Restaurant Co-op Reviews

Rode divvy bikes from downtown up the lake and to the green mill. Awesome afternoon overall. There is a divvy station right near the green mill

This place was at the top of our list for our short trip to Chicago. Weren't sitting at the bar for five minutes before some grumpy grey haired lady came and basically took my seat out from under my butt and told me I was in the way for the servers and made us move. Another patron proceeded to stand right where I had been sitting for the rest of our visit. No hospitality. Total shame to pay cover for that experience. Music was redeeming. Good atmosphere if the staff weren't so rude.

Best Jazz club in Chicago. Make sure you have cash. Drinks are very affordable and service is swift. I had fun.

Sitting in a place of history. Come here for slam poetry!

The establishment was nice but the staff were absolutely awful, some of the rudest people ive came across in a while. They would literally bad mouth costumers to each other right in front of the costumers and the worst one was a older women More

This place lived up to the hype. The jazz magic was both invigorating and relaxing at the same time.

I 100% appreciate the no talking and no phones rules. Cash only.

It ruined my night, the waitress spilled a whole glass of red wine on my gf, and she just said " I am sorry, next round on me". Which never even was addressed because she claimed that we never paid for our original drinks. we paid 20 dollars for a 13,5 dollars bill and I was waiting for my change but I never got it. " Meanwhile my gf spent the next 20 minutes in the bathroom scrubbing the wine out of her clothes.

One of the true hidden gems of Chicago. You can instantly tell the history and charm of a place that hasn't changed much over the last half decade. Cash only bar. But drinks are very reasonable and the jazz is good. Little bit more eclectic acts than other jazz bars, but very intimate setting. Come early to get good seating! Perfect for date night or to simply go back in time a little

I always go to this place during the day. Patrick the daytime bartender is really nice and knows how to make a solid martini. Would recommend.

The best place to listen to music. Drinks aren't good and staff is not friendly, but I go for music, not service.

Crowded, cash only, no talking. Music was ok, but nothing exceptional.

Step inside here and you're stepping into another time/alternate dimension. A place where everybody is cool and everybody comes to listen to great music, sip excellent libations, and enjoy a very very unique and special place/atmosphere. It's an impressive accomplishment that this bar/venue has stood the test of time. In a sad way it reminded me of some of the venues in NYC that haven't, but in the same hand it makes you thankful that it has. Green Mill definitely has some remains of a different era- cash only at the bar and a considerable (but totally worth it) cover charge. But, you're paying for the experience here. And what an experience it is. On any given night you're going to hear some impressive local jazz acts, late into the night if that's your thing as their doors stay open until the wee hours of the morning. Their drink range is small but excellent, and they even have one of my all time favorite (and hard to find) beers available, La Fin du Monde. Any place that boasts that on their menu is top notch in my book. The staff are also great, and speedy.
For the tourists out there, don't visit here unless you're aware of the vibe/atmosphere. This isn't a place to pop into and take IG photos, have some respect and try to appreciate what an institution the Green Mill is. For the rest of y'all, if you love high quality live Jazz in an awesome setting this is the place for you. I'm definitely coming back on my next visit to Chicago.

The place is nice. After we appreciate or not the music. That night it was experimental jazz. Not so much my thing. There are not enough things to nibble. Otherwise we drink we drink we drink ...

Great atmosphere, very talented musicians, and fairly priced drinks. Would definitely recommend as something new to try, and could become a regular favorite!

I love the atmosphere here. The live bands and low lighting makes me think of a Parisian cabarets. I look forward to going there again!

Absolutely a vibe ... If you love live jazz .. my favorite

I don't get the popularity of this place. Yeah it's old and iconic. Yes Al Capone use to go here. So What? It's a Jazz joint with a lot of bad seating, a lot of it with no view of the musicians playing there. Also you get shushed by the patrons and staff if you say more than one word to the people you are with. Yeah I get it, you shouldn't be having a loud conversation while the band is playing, but give me a break. You take yourself WAY too seriously. Plus your drinks are overpriced and poorly made. I know this place was around during prohibition, but do your drinks actually have to taste like they were made in a bathtub for authenticity? It is just a typical Chicago place for posers who pretend to appreciate Jazz.

I used to visit this spot all the time when I lived I've chi town

I came here while on a Jazz & Blues tour and learned a lot about the Green Mill's history including how it got it's name! (HINT: look on the roof!) They kind of have a weird set-up inside, but the beers were cold and the staff was nice! If you're a lady, there is some pretty epic graffiti in the women's bathroom - make sure you get a glimpse!

Incredible feel to this place, be sure and get there EARLY if you want a seat.

Fantastic 14pc band played, The Yestets! Awesome show. Crowded, get their early for a seat or spot to stand.

One of the oldest, classiest joints in the city. Don't act a fool here. Live music.

Makes you feel like you're in a different decade. Awesome music, solid beer selection, great time.

Chicago history at its finest. Cash only to hang with Al Capone, and weekend cover charges that are anything from $20 to $5 at this after 2:00 am / late night landmark. Worth every penny.

Jazz bar. Excellent musicians. Only drinks served (no food). Bring cash! No credit or debit cards accepted. The architecture inside seems to be the original one, so I would say it's quite a hallmark for the city. ($5 admission fee)

I really enjoy listening to the Jazz Music. I didn't like people standing in front of me where as I couldn't see the musicians playing there instruments or them once it because crowded. Get there early to get a seat.

Staff was extremely rude. Just yelling at people trying to find seats and not explaining clearly when seats were reserved.

Check your bar staff, especially the stout, shorter guy in a blue checkered shirt on 28 Dec.

What a pity such a great music location has staff who destroy the experience.

It's a classic. Great jazz every night. Beer and cocktails, nothing special. Come for the music and vibes.

So much history here, where to begin? Make sure you sit in Al Capone's booth, if it isn't already taken.

Attendef an awesome performance by Patricia Barber!

Cash bar, and you need to arrive early to get a chance at a seat. But the music is consistently fantastic, and the atmosphere is fun. I go whenever I get the chance.

Miserable. They let in more people than can fit in the space, so, elbow to elbow all night.

this place is an awesome for music lovers, alternative rocks esp!! highly recommended,make sure to get ur tix ahead of time!

Great place to listen to local artists. Excellent atmosphere and cocktails.

Even if it wasn't exactly the best cocktail I ever had (quite the opposite) the location and the charme this place has saves it all

Like stepping back in time. Great atmosphere and music.

Always a fun time, a great date spot, or spot to hang out with your people and catch the latest and greatest or older standbys in jazz and related genres perform in an intimate venue. Only downsides are how cramped it gets and how touristy it is, but those are nothing compared to the atmosphere and the great jazz you'll see.

Don t waste your time and money. It isn t worth it. Came to visit Chicago for the weekend and wanted to experience a place that was recommended but was really dissapointed. It was super packed due to a concert by Karrin Allyson. I came with a party of 15 and had to pay $15 each to go in. The bouncer did not advise us that there was not enough place so we had to stand up in the hallway, which was used for the waitress, so we were moved all the way to the back. We were crammed but fine, but couldn t say a word since you have to be silent the whole time. I asked the bouncer if I could borrow a chair that was literally next to him (there were two in fact, folded, in between the door and his stool) so my girlfriend could sit on it since we had been walking all day, but he refused to let me borrow it. Said, No, I can t. We can t have anyone sitting in the back space. By this point I was like, Are you kidding me? Ten minutes passed and we were laughing a bit and gussed we bothered the bartender so he turned around and told us to shut up. Just like that; Shut up. This is a quiet place. If you don t like it, you can go to another bar. Well, that s exactly what we did. Finished our beers and left. Management is extremely rude, no customer service what so ever.

Come in sooner to get a seat. If you don't, you'll forget all about sitting because the music blows you away. This place is the heartbeat of Chicago jazz music. Alfonso Ponticelli every Wednesday. Great spot for a casual date or a night out with a couple friends. Not for larger groups.

Unique place with unique atmosphere...
downside... cash only.

This is the best spot for listening to music in Chicago. The ambiance is totally natural, and the fact that they have muscle guys at the front door enforcing the quiet policy early on is a big plus!

All of the waiters were irrespectful. Lack of respect. Unable to take care of a group people who are just looking for a good time. No apparent reason for being asked to leave. For 6$, unacceptable. Do not go. But if you do, good luck.

Very unpleasant experience.
We were a couple of days ago in this place, and the treatment received starting with the bully at the entrance and going through the rest of the waiters was unfortunate, even one of them pouting my partner badly for having supposedly sat in a chair busy.
The chairs, by the way, stacked, could not be placed to see the performance. They made us move from the bar because it seems that we were bothering the waiters, with other people also located there. A whole rosary of nonsense.
In short, except for the band of musicians that was of quality, it is a place that I do not recommend going, unless you are willing to endure humiliation and contempt. A pity of place.

Lots of nostalgia from "old chicago". Live music, friendly staff. Great place to hang out for a few drinks, music.

My 1st time here, I sat at the bar, I didn't know it was cash only, so bartender came to me and so I ask for a french martini and he said " it's cash only here and the martini is $11" hahaha and tgey next to me said "how about if you get her the french martini" jeez really guys? Actually I find your french martini is cheap and its not even all that.

Life changing. This place is so special and has its very own vibe, that s for sure. Live music, the booziest White Russian I ve ever had, romantic ambiance with my hubby. Couldn t ask for more. I turned 26 years old in the Green Mill and I ll never forget that!

Super chill and jazzy. One of my favorite musical experiences. I would definately go back and take friends!

I like Alfonso Potencelli & his band... Amazing feeling and they groove... I will definitely come back...

A friend of mine had visited several bars and couldn't find the perfect amaretto sour. This location made it spot on. That and listening to jazz music made it a perfect collection. Depending on what you're there, come early to find a good spot to sit in for the show or end up there late if you just want to listen to jazz until the AM hours.

Cool place. Was quite cozy and I was so close to the stage I think I scared the band.

Yes, only one star and it's just for the band playing tonight: EXCELLENT! but here it is not enough to spend a good evening ..
at the entrance, we pay $ 6 per person for "the group"; I present myself with my wife next door (a friend couple follows), I give $ 12 and there the guy at the entrance asks me: "for whom the $ 12?" . I point my wife (who was stuck to me), then I ... I understand his head and his big muscles that he did not learn to count to 2 (and even less knowledge that 2x6 = 12).
we enter and there! surprise, armored world ... in fact, they accept the world as long as there is the $ 6 ...
We walk near the stage, all places are taken or reserved (many reserved besides we wonder for whom ..). we discover 3 folding chairs placed on a wall, I seize (I remember that we are 2 couples) and there a guy slaps me on the shoulder with the kindness of a guard alcatraz ..; " go with these chairs! no more seats availablle !! and he takes my hands! I'm ready to get out of this stinky universe (I do not speak of the frame that is good in his juice) ... my friends find 4 stools near the exit stuck to the bar) ... we settle down and we hear the orchestra in the distance ...
Behind his bar, a waiter asks us what we want to drink, I ask for a card ... it annoys him, he slaps me on the counter .. not great choice ... we compose ... we order, we pay, he gives us change by slamming on the bar! Al capone would be there, this one would already be on his list and ready to be blocked ..
a man noticed us and come to us to ask if everything is going well (in fact, it especially noticed our 2 charming wives dressed for the occasion.) One explains to him that one is disappointed of our site ... he said he is coming back to see if he finds room "in front" ..... wait ... he comes back and tells our wife (as luck would have it) that he only has 2 places ... We refuse to separate ... we finish our consos and we get stuck !!! We catch a taxi to ask for a nice bar! he drops us off and we enter a restaurant-disco (upstairs) very nice (very good in any case). It's not the swing atmosphere but it suits us.

in summary, on chicago, make a swing or jazz bar, the groups are good but not at Green Mill ..

All I wanted was a jazz club with an old timey feel when we visited Chicago. It was a Tuesday night and I didn t have high expectations. We came into The Green Mill and it was packed (get there early), but there was an amazing band and swing dancers!! It was the best night.

Great musicians performing great jazz, low cost admission, fun historical place, good beer. a great experience (i am from out of town and would definitely recommend the short travel there).

The Paper Machete on Saturday afternoons is the best comedy/music/smart entertainment show in the city by far.

The jazz band was amazing and the drinks super strong. I would totally recommend this jewel to anyone visiting or living in Chicago. Cover charge was only $10 and drinks were cheap too.

An awesome place for poetry slams and other literary sharing. My friends and I love this place because they respect the arts. The place is open and classy and I would recommend to anyone visiting chicago. The staff are incredibly nice and intellectual.

Great place to hear authentic jazz from the masters of the genre. The space is small so you would have to get there at least an hour or two before the start of the show if you want a table.

Having a long history with this place I have seen a few of it's incarnations.The return of live jazz music seems to have only enhanced it's historic romantic charms.

Best place for jazz and friendly folks and dancing.

So it was my first time at the Green Mill and when I got in there with a couple of friends, he charged my twice, so I told him he charged me twice but he was denying it and was so rude to me and my friends. We were arguing for minutes until he gave me my 7 dollars back. He was a white guy, so dont go there, they re very rude.

Jazz clubs and pool rooms are churches for me, life long. Since late eighties I have been coming to The Green Mill when visiting family and friends in Chicago.

I saw/heard Patricia Barber in September 2013 at Blues Alley in DC and delighted discovering that TGM is her home office when she is not touring. Learning that Monday night s is her spot I started making strong effort to stay in town through Monday if possible when she is on the TGM schedule. Otherwise I like to go on Friday or Saturday nights. Have enjoyed several Sunday Poetry Slams over the years.

Cover charge is exceptionally reasonable, drink prices are fair, bartenders and servers are terrific in my opinion and experience. Commendable that TGM has always been strong about keeping crowd noise low during performances. World-class jazz performed in renown club. TGM should be on the National Register of Historic Places.

Jazz night is awesome. Cozy place with lovely live jazz music

This place in general is just a cool Chicago staple. But on Saturdays at 3:00 pm one of my favorite events takes place: the Paper Machete "live magazine." This blend of pop culture, news and political commentary, blended with straight comedy and fabulous live music is so, so fun and entertaining. Highly recommend. Top: Green Mill is cash only.

Came and visited chicago and thought visiting a bar that Al Capone was at would be a cool stop! It was a waste of time, they have a small table with pictures behind the bar for Al Capone that's it, and the bartender was so rude! We were there two hours before Poetry night and they tried to charge us cover if we were there for a half hour longer. It was not impressive and was a huge let down. I dont recommend going out of your way to go see it.

Come see Paper Machete every Saturday at 3pm. Best live magazine variety show in the city.

My friends were singled out and harassed by the owner who claimed they were talking too loud even though almost everyone in the bar was talking. I believe they were targeted because they looked like they were under 30 and this establishment's audience skews older. I will not be spending my money here again and do not recommend it. Thank u, next.

Kooky old speakeasy with surly bartenders and great live jazz.

What a perfect establishment! Great drinks, amazing music, but the best part of this bar is the vibe. The decor adds to this vibe making it like you are stepping back in history and hearing the birth of jazz all over again.

Very neat little jazz bar very close to The Aragon Ballroom. I would assume that this place gets packed after a concert, but I have never tried to come after a show myself.

Prices and drinks are great, but it is CASH ONLY! So be aware of that!

We went here on a Thursday night and payed a $6 cover to get in. The big band was just warming up and we were lucky that we were able to still get a booth. The antique ambiente definitely adds to the atmosphere for a night of Jazz. The music was great and service was fast. The drinks were a little bit pricey for the size of them. All in all it was a great night with good Jazz.

I went with a few friends and saw a really cool jazz band. The only reason I'm not giving it more stars is I'm used to IL and you just can't compare to the venues there. I think if it's a band you are into you will have a nice time. I will attach a pic of the band :)

So fabulous to enjoy such an iconic establishment. We got here at 7:30 on a Saturday night and the staff immediately instructed us to get a table because the crowd will be here and it will be packed. They were right, and it was a delightful experience with stiff drinks at a reasonable price. Very refreshing after leaving the loop.

Depending on the night of the week, the music ranges from alright to awesome. Never a let down, always a place for a hangout or a night out.
Bring a fedora, feel the jazz.

There is often a wait or standing room only, but the bands and vibe at this place are worth it. No matter how packed I've seen it, the wait staff makes sure no one goes thirsty.

It would be my favorite place if it weren't a silent place. You must be silent. And no dancing.. sounds like fun right.?

Great music but unfortunately service is extremely disappointing from the guy at the door to the bartenders and waiters. They totally kill the vibe

Very cool historic venue. Went for the Sunday night poetry slam. Only lasted through the featured poets: you get a whole lot of show for only $7! Very good vibes, lots of talent and a supportive audience. Ps bring lots of cash. The atm goes down a lot.

Great speakeasy venue and with amazing jazz. However the night was almost ruined by rude staff.

Tina is the bomb! I'm not discrediting any others, BTW.