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Ludlow Liquors | Bars in Avondale, Chicago

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/16/ludlow-liquors-bars-in-avondale-chicago.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, September 16th 2025 at 18:26 GMT by Time Out
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Ludlow Liquors – Chicago’s Speakeasy‑in‑Disguise

When you think of Chicago’s most memorable night‑life spots, the city’s world‑renowned speakeasies and rooftop lounges often dominate the conversation. Yet, tucked away on a bustling Chicago street is a place that defies easy categorization, offering a quiet, almost clandestine experience that is as much about atmosphere as it is about the drink itself. That place is Ludlow Liquors, a bar that the Time Out Chicago team highlighted in a recent feature. Their article takes you inside the dimly lit interior, reveals why the place has become a staple in the city’s bar scene, and gives you a taste of what makes Ludlow stand out.

A Look at the Space

According to the Time Out piece, Ludlow Liquors opens its doors on the lower floor of a historic Chicago building at 1510 N. Milwaukee Avenue, near Wicker Park. The space feels like a relic that was rescued from the past rather than a newly minted bar. Rough-hewn brick walls, exposed beams, and a long, polished mahogany bar are the main visual anchors. The lighting is deliberate – low‑profile lamps and a few strategically placed candles give the venue an intimate glow that feels almost conspiratorial. The interior’s vintage décor is not just for show; the walls are lined with an impressive array of glass bottles, each a testament to the bar’s dedication to craft spirits.

One key element that Time Out noted is the bar’s thoughtful layout. The layout allows for both a sense of community and an appreciation for quiet, one‑on‑one conversations. The bartenders are perched behind the bar, accessible but not intrusive. A small, almost hidden side room, accessible through a discreet door, offers a more secluded experience for those who prefer a hushed setting.

The Drink Menu – Whiskey, Wine, and the Whole Story

Ludlow Liquors is most famous for its wide-ranging whiskey selection. The Time Out article cites that there are more than 200 different whiskeys on tap, including a mix of well‑known brands, small‑batch distilleries, and local favorites. The bar’s whiskey menu is not simply a list – it’s a story. Each bottle has a brief description on the wall, giving patrons a quick insight into its origin, flavor profile, and the distillery’s history.

Beyond whiskey, the bar offers an equally intriguing wine list. “Ludlow has a wine list that’s both comprehensive and approachable,” the article notes. The selection focuses on small‑plant wineries and includes a few unique varietals that you won’t find in the average bar. In terms of beer, Ludlow’s craft beer lineup changes seasonally, with a mix of domestic microbrews and a handful of imported options.

The bartenders at Ludlow are more than just servers – they are mixologists. The Time Out feature highlights a few signature cocktails that showcase the bar’s creative prowess. For example, the “Old‑School Manhattan” has a modern twist, while the “Citrus Smash” uses locally sourced ingredients for a fresh, vibrant flavor. The bar’s cocktails are crafted to balance the strengths of the base spirits, a philosophy that’s clear from the bar’s careful selection of liquors and mixers.

Staff and Service

The vibe at Ludlow is amplified by its staff, who are described as approachable yet deeply knowledgeable. Bartenders seem to have an encyclopedic understanding of whiskey, and they’re quick to recommend a bottle based on a patron’s palate. “The staff at Ludlow is friendly and knowledgeable,” the article says, “and they seem to genuinely enjoy talking about the drinks they’re serving.” This quality turns a simple night out into an educational experience, with patrons leaving the bar not only satisfied but also more informed about their favorite spirits.

Where to Go Next – More Information

The Time Out Chicago article includes a link to Ludlow Liquors’ official website, where you can explore their full drink menu, see the bar’s event calendar, and even make reservations. If you’re a whiskey aficionado, the website hosts a dedicated section that dives deeper into the distilleries that supply Ludlow. The bar’s blog also offers detailed reviews of new bottles and upcoming special releases, giving customers a reason to keep returning.

Additionally, the Time Out piece references a related article from Chicago Magazine that delves into the history of the building that houses Ludlow Liquors. The building itself dates back to the early 1900s and has seen its share of Chicago’s evolving cultural landscape. That article provides context on how Ludlow’s aesthetic and spirit culture are tied to the historic charm of the neighborhood, offering an extra layer of depth to the bar’s narrative.

Why Ludlow Liquors Is a Must‑Visit

From the moment you step into Ludlow Liquors, you’re enveloped in a world that feels like a secret hideaway in the heart of the city. The bar’s impeccable selection of whiskeys and other spirits, paired with an atmosphere that is both intimate and welcoming, makes it a compelling destination for both seasoned connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Time Out Chicago captured the essence of the venue by focusing on three core aspects: the space itself, the breadth of its drink selection, and the quality of its staff. Their piece highlights how Ludlow Liquors does more than just serve drinks; it offers an experience, an educational journey, and a place where people can gather and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you find yourself in the Chicago area and are looking for a venue that marries history, craft spirit culture, and an engaging atmosphere, Ludlow Liquors should be high on your list. For the full menu and a look into upcoming events, head over to their website and make sure to book your seat behind the bar. Whether you’re after a slow, contemplative sip of a rare Scotch or a lively cocktail that pairs perfectly with the bar’s ambiance, Ludlow Liquors promises a memorable evening that will keep you coming back for more.