Empty Bottle . - Chicago

Beer, Bars, Venues

Empty Bottle .

Empty Bottle .
4.6 / 5 (2759 reviews)

Description

This venue seems to have mixed reviews, with some patrons feeling unwelcome due to the crowd and music scene, while others enjoyed the intimacy and acoustics. It appears to be a popular spot for live music, with some mentioning specific shows they attended. The bar service was mentioned positively overall, although there were a few complaints about the sound system and difficulty getting the bartender's attention. The venue is praised for having working AC, a bar cat, and a clean environment. Some mentioned the high drink prices but acknowledged it as expected. Overall, the experience at this venue seems to vary depending on personal preferences and expectations.

Last update: 20.02.2026 from: Charles

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★ 4.6 / 5 from 2759 reviews
charles-nadolski
20.02.2026

Dracula's Halloween Special 2025 at the Empty Bottle, featuring Sindy Vicious, More Ephemerol, Ronnie Stone, and Madeline Goldstein. The venue is cozy, and was decorated in a spooky analog horror vibe. Great, dramatic lighting that didn't try to blind you with lasers. The music was dark wave and synthpop, mixed in with some stand-up from Dracula and dance acts from Sindy Vicious.

lou-lou-fox618
20.02.2026

This is such a cool venue in an unexpected place! You enter to a small garage-like room that has a pool table that when I visited was converted into an art table that was full of photography and crafts for a local art sale. You can go left and checkout a small pizza shop or continue forward into the bar and music stage! I loved how it kept me guessing at every turn, clearly a lot of fun happens here! I’ll have to check it out for a music show sometime, I hear they do a winter dance fest every February where they close down the parallel street for music and joy! I didn’t grab a drink at the time but I imagine they have all the classics and probably some fun ones on tap. Clearly a spirited community hub.

adm
16.12.2023

Came here in the early evening for a drink with an old friend. Only people here were 1 bartender and some band members loading in. Had a nice chat with some of the band guys who were hanging out but the bartender kept ducking into the back room anytime my friend and I tried to get his attention to ask for another beer. We left to drink elsewhere since this place clearly wasn't interested in serving us. Was a few months ago but I still think about this interaction (or lack thereof, I should say) because it was so awkward and rude.

ali-alfarhan
16.12.2023

What a lovely venue hosting a very healthy variety of different shows. Absolutely great time here

f-middleton-3
16.12.2023

AC actually works which is a huge plus. It looks clean and there is a bar cat...also a huge plus. Drinks are a little pricey but that's to be expected. One bartender was a bit surly but that's ok too. ?

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You can use the WiFi of the restaurant at no extra cost.

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