The Green Mill Reviews

Went on a Thursday night for the swing band. Got there at 8:30 and the place was packed. Get there before 8 to get a table. All cash. The staff are all slightly older hipsters and not all that friendly but were fine to us. The band was AWESOME. Place looked great and the dirty martinis were on point.

Step back in time into the Capone Era of Chicago. Nothing has changed and they have great jazz and cocktails. A must see!

The customer service was extremely rude. I called with a question and while I was taking a brief moment (2 seconds max) to gather my thoughts, the representative interrupted me and said he would attend to other customers because I was taking too long to ask my question. He then proceeded to put me on hold for some minutes... Why are some people like this? And with the other reviews here, I am not surpised.

This is THE venue to go to (a short ride on the red line) if you want to hear real Chicago jazz. Former Capone bar that hasn't changed since the 1920's. Good price drinks, the best night to go is when Andy Schumm and the Fat Babies play, although all nights are great. This place is one of the few remaining music venues where MUSIC is king! The manager will often rouse on people who talk whilst the bands are playing! After all you go to places like this to hear the music.

To begin with, this spectacular club doesn't serve food; only drinks (a la my favorite jazz club in the world, The Village Vanguard in NYC). That my friends is the first sign that The Green Mill takes it's music seriously - and this is seriously one of the worlds best places to see and hear live music at it's very best - and to call The Green Mill special (the look, the feel, the musicians who play here, etc.) is an understatement.

The atmosphere is totally genuine and unique! Great drinks and live music make this place a totally enjoyable experience! A short train ride from the city and a true Chicago jazz time! I highly recommend it but get there early for a seat!

This is one of the most amazing bars I've ever been to. The live band is so wondefull, and together with the interior it creates a really great atmosphere. Do not go to Chicago without visiting this gem!

Great jazz in an intimate setting with the vibe of a neighborhood watering-hole. The place to be to relax and enjoy the talents of some excellent jazz musicians.

Come on....if you want a visit to old Chicago then you have to grab a drink here. CLASSIC. What can you say. This place speaks for itself as soon as you walk in. If these walls could talk...grab a drink, think back to another time and get lost in the fun.

This bar is awesome. It seems to be virtually unchanged since the days of Al Capone, and this was apparently one of his favorite bars. If you're in Chicago, it's well worth the train or cab ride uptown. We went to hear the Gonzalo Bergara Quartet, and we were very impressed that the guy at the door who collected the cover charge as we entered, also regularly shushed the folks who were getting loud. We were there to hear the music, and if he had not done that it would have been impossible to hear it. I don't think I've ever been in an establishment where the rowdies were asked to tone it down. It was great. Those of us who were there to hear the music really appreciated it. Don't miss this place if you're in Chicago. It's a classic.

We paid $15 cover and it was well worth it. We saw a great jazz act. Full house. Nice ambience. Standing room only when we arrived but we got a seat when part of the crowd left. We thought the price of drinks was very reasonable. Very close to the subway so it was easy to get to. I highly recommend this place if you are interested in music.

This jazz club is an absolute institution but if you do not arrive an hour before Showtime you will be standing in the back room or get turned away at the door in the freezing cold. My recommendation is to go to the Mexican restaurant next door and get dinner to go because the Jazz Club will let you eat at a table assuming you order drinks and then an hour later you have perfect seats to see the show.

Took red line in from Wrigleyville / Addison & got there around 7 on a Friday. Our group of 5 friends listened to live jazz from organist located behind the bar while enjoying a few old school cocktails. A few friends took the chance to grab a quick dinner nearby while the true jazz aficionados in our group loved it!

If you are looking for jazz and an "old school" atmosphere this is your place. Very unique spot. If you want a seat for a particular show get there at least one hour before the show otherwise the tables fill up. Old school drinks beer and wine priced well. Cover charge for the main act but no drink minimum. Not sure why Tripadvisor has this listed as a restaurant since no food is served there.

I was enthralled with the Green Mill lounge from the moment I stepped through the door. A place with such character as a place of good music with a great bar. It is amazing to think that such a venue can be packed to the rafters and still have an intimate ambiance and one so respectful of the musicians. I was there when Paul Marinaro performed and he was very personable, a true entertainer and most approachable.

If you can, try to pick up the local paper and find out when the Machete is playing the Mill - the Machete is a Virtual Magazine and words cannot describe (not mine, anyway). Just too funny!

Absolutely had the best experience at the The Green Mill Speak Easy, if your in town, GO THERE. "Fat Babies " played tonight. See this band!!!! Go back in time and enjoy the super fabulous environment and entertainment, a MUST STOP.

What a classic Chicago institution. This one of Al Capones hangouts and the decor is cool 1920's with a great long bar. The dance floor is a bit small but that doesn't detract from the experience. Easy access for the El. Bar tenders are on the ball and the prices are reasonable

Nice and very authentic cocktail bar but rude employees: from door man to the waitress and bar tender. The worst experience in Chicago!!

I have always wanted to go to the Green Mill because I heard the music was fantastic. So I made it a point to stop by while visiting Chicago. I called the Green Mill before we left the hotel to make sure it was open. When the phone was answered by the Green Mill I asked if it was open, and the reply was, "we answered the phone didn't we?" That response sounded rather rude. We went for a drink and left shortly after to find a place to eat. We did return to hear the main entertainment. There is a cover charge but that's the norm for most establishements that provide music. What we didn't know was there is no table talk during the performance. We were told by I believe was the owner to be quiet. I was shocked by this. Never have I been to a place that does not allow people to have small talk. They really need to post this so all knows. Didn't feel to welcome at the Green Mill but the entertainment was good

I love love love the Green Mill and that they have had live music here for decades, and every kind of live music, indeed. Jimmy Page and Robert Plant played here the night before the United Center gig 20 years ago. That's the caliber of talent here -- Yes they charge a cover, as they should, to keep out the nonsense and let the guests hear the amazing live music. the original half moon banquettes are still here, as is the class of a jazz bar, of an age gone by. Dress UP and make a splash at the green mill :)

Wonderful local jazz bar. Great cocktails and good ambience. Cash only but feels like we stepped back in time. Enjoyed the experience.

Came here with a group of friends because we heard jazz music was good. The music was great it was swing night. The bartenders and service staff was horrible. They were all so rude. I would recommend this place for jazz music but the staff were very snobby and rude.

We attended on a Thursday and caught the Alan Gresik Swing Shift Orchestra lay down an unreal set of swing music. Our only regret was not getting there earlier. The music was great, the standard beer or mixed drinks were between $4-6 tax incl. Lots of waitresses to bring get your order. The only way to pay is by cash; bring $30 and you'll be set for the night. There definitely seems to be a crowd of regulars that can dance VERY well but they are awesome people that will even dance with those of us who are beginners. A very fun night.

Green Mill is legit. It's a one of the best jazz venues in the US, and has a wonderful set of folks behind the bar. It's open until the very early hours, and serves alcohol until 4am, if that's what you're looking for. Be sure to check the schedule (on their website) before you head over - Friday and Saturday nights sometimes have very well known acts that can pack the place until about 11:45, and there's a cover for those acts. Beginning at 12:00, there's no cover and the local acts come on. Sunday is poetry slam, so be warned, unless poetry slam is your thing, in which case be slammy. The bar carries some fine local beer on draft, but also serves Mallort. Definitely ask for it by name and have a shot if you dare. It's only available in Chicago, and has its own Wikipedia page. One final note --- this is a jazz club. The expectation, both tacit and explicit (depending on who is doing the expecting) is that folks sitting near the stage will keep their voices down or, better yet, refrain from talking while the performance is underway. If you really want to converse (and, hey, it's your little red wagon), sit near the door. The club is long, so of you sit back there you will still be able to heat the music but also can have a low conversation without disturbing others (including the musicians and bouncers).

I love the history of The Green Mill, and it's absolutely beautiful on the inside, but the bar tender is more interested in talking to the ladies than serving up drinks.

We got there 40 minutes before the 9:00 pm show and got a booth - but 20 minutes later is was SRO! It's a small place and the jazz is great (though they don't need to mic the instruments. (Since they do, someone should have been better on the mixing board). No food - just drinks. Not much else up there so it can be competitive to grab a cab when it's time to go home.

Stopped for a coke during the day and the decor was enough to win me over. I loved it. I would go back and next time it'll be to see some live music.

Excellent jazz sessions ... a great place to go ... it is a traditional bar there ... so ... must see attaction ...

Al Capone was a frequent patron. Since then, Green Mill has lost none of its charm, and only grown in reputatiom. The dim lighting, intimate square footage, and mandatory silence during jazz sets add to the experience of enjoying a cocktail in the same setting as one of America's most notorious men. Far and away a more enjoyable and impactful experience than examining a dusty exhibit!

Glad I read all the reviews first and was aware of the cover charge and cash only bar. Visited on a Wednesday night and paid $7 cover and seating is open. Arrived around 10 p.m during the band's break and were lucky to find 2 seats at the bar. Great environment, great strong drinks and band. Door guy tells you they like silence and no flash photography while the band is playing, but of course there are those that do not respect that. If you can make it in a little early to sit in the front where those who are really there to enjoy the music are seated, then the experience is A LOT better. Overall, definitely glad to have visited and would go again if in town in the future.

After moving abroad, every time I return to Chicago Green Mill is one of my first places I visit. Unlike many other places in the city, any night of the week you will not only find a jazz band, you will find talented, experienced jazz bands and musicians. The staff are friendly, and the ambience takes you back to the past. And like any good jazz club, it stays open late into the night, which is perfect for any fellow night owls.

Any tourist in Chicago prepared to go uptown would have made wise decision to visit The Green Mill Whilst I am not a Jazz expert I was lucky to enjoy gypsy jazz being played here on that evening. They charge $6 after 8pm I think but every cent worth it. It was interesting to see lots of locals who were serious listeners. The ambience is perfect like the one seen in many Hollywood movies great place

The Green Mill showcases top jazz in a wonderful throw back environment. We were fortunate enough to go the night Penn and Teller were in the audience. The guest set by Penn was an unexpected highlight to Mike’s Jazz Keyboarding. The music is wonderful but it is crowded but you will truly have a great experience and if your friendly maybe chat with some of the other standing guests listening to the Jamm session.

Wonderful place with perfect ambiance. Takes you back a century to the real jazz era. However, no talking during his show feels a bit awkward, when you're visiting with a friend. I'm convinced there was quite some noise in the old days!

We read about it and decided we’d have to try it. Sure the vibe was cool, dimly lit, good music, cool decor on the walls. Music show that night was entertaining. But our vibe was completely killed by the manager who seemed to have forgotten to take her arthritis medication that morning. I’ve never seen someone more crotchety. She was rude and on a complete power trip. Seemed to only be nice to the people she recognized. Us newbies? Forget it. Also, if the bar tender hates his job that much, he should get a new one. I hope he finds his new calling. Overall, lacklustre and won’t be recommending to others.

We were told this the THE PLACE to see Jazz in Chicago. Everyone was correct. We picked Tuesday night to listen to the Fat Babies. We took the Red Line which lets you off down the street from the bar. You can see if from the platform. We walked in and was taken back to the 1920's of Chicago. The bar was full as well as all the tables. Great vibe going on. We found a place at the bar and took in all the ambiance. The bad was off the hook. The dance floor was packed with amazing dancers; all dressed in the motif of the era. Now we want to take dance lessons. This is a not miss on your Chicago tour of the Real Chicago nightlife

First time to Chicago and I had seen the Green Mill T.V program underground cities explaining the old bootlegging tunnels under the bar...so we had to make it a stop! with all the history attached to it! after being down town at the fest we decided to end the night at the green mill where we arrived a little later than expected but when we got in side it was just amazing the old art deco era decor and the performer who was playing that night (Nicole Henry) just made it that much better! it made us feel like we had stepped into a time machine and after a little bit we were able to get into Capone's old booth! pricless! I highly recomend going if you are in the Chicago area!

I do not recommend it as mentioned by others, they are used to it being filled with tourists so they mistreat you. The place is nice and interesting, we stayed half an hour or 45 minutes, just to meet.

On Wednesdays, the "fat Babies" are there. They are wonderful, playing 30's and 40's Jazz. If you like Jazz you have to see them. There is room for dancing and you feel drawn back in time! They also have two albums out - I wish there were more!

We went there quite late and we waited a little to enter the bar because too many people were there. But when we got into the bar we found out it was definitely worth waiting. Awesome bar, awesome jazz music band. We payed the entrance because of the concert but the drinks inside were not that expensive for Chicago. The inside of the bar is well decorated... as if you travelled in time back then when Al Capone was there ;-) I highly recommend this place!

This is a must do. If you like jazz, stepping back in time, Al Capone hangout follower, good drinks. This original Art Deco jazz bar from 1920’s is the place to be. We got there for the early show which had no cover and was just a solo jazz guitarist . Excellent. Later a women accompanied singing a couple of old school songs. It was fantastic. A step back in time. Loved, loved it. We didn’t stay for the big band which was on later but we were thrilled to be there and enjoy. It’s a must do.

This place is legendary in Chicago. It came highly recommended by the locals. The history of this place dates back to the 1920s and if you speak to one of the regulars they will tell you all about. Its looks dated but that is by design. The want to preserve the history. Its great for live music including jazz, blues, big band and even spoken word. I went on a Tuesday night and they had a big band performing and swing dancers. It was a cool experience. This place has a cover and its a cash only bar. So be prepared. I sat at the bar and the bartender was great. I dont remember his name but he makes a good drink. This place is also a big hangout for other musicians. Check this place out. It's apart of Chicago's history.

Everything about the green Mill reeks of Chicago History which is a good thing! Where else in the world can you recreate which an ambience? The music and sound speaks for itself. A must see for visitors and natives alike.

FIRST THING TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO- CASH ONLY! Make sure you stop at the ATM before you get to the door. You will be spending cash for the cover charge and all of your drinks. Now, as to the venue- it is of absolutely no pretense. It is authentic. It is a throwback to the 1950s(?). There is a jukebox playing 45s! The place is old- no updates here- two layers of tiles exposed on the floor, cracked upholstery on the bar stools, high-back, curved booths, washrooms right next to the stage. The seating is not as well suited for viewing the stage as it could be. There are no reserved tables. Nobody seats you- find a table and sit down. There is a small but odd list of beers available (New Holland Dragon's Milk on tap!). I don't know but my guess is that you better not ask for any of those foo-foo drinks you had on the beach in Mexico. This place is a spot in which you can really listen to the music. You are asked not to talk during the performance and it does help your enjoyment of the music. The great Patricia Barber (pianist-composer-singer) and her trio are the "house act" if you will. She is there most Monday evenings when she is not out on tour. She starts at nine and will play three sets until about 1am. She is why you come to the Green Mill, along with the other musical entertainment throughout the week. At an $8 cover charge Patricia is one of the greatest entertainment values available today. I waited several years to find a Monday evening that would work for me and I just got my chance- she did not disappoint. Ms. Barber and her trio/quartet was just a joy to witness. And she is just so approachable- go up and talk to her between sets. She is a Chicago treasure.

This club is for local cult members only. They are a cash only establishment, obviously to avoid taxes. Don’t stop drinking or they will pressure you to order a round. Sad entertainment was ok but wow the idiots that run the place are over the top rude.

I was told by quite a few locals to visit this place. We walked up, and the door guy says “$15 cover cash only”. We think it’s gotta be worth it, so we pay it and walk in. All seats were taken, and they didn’t warn us. They were well over occupancy. The bartender was not very nice, and all patrons kept getting shushed by the staff. I’m a musician, so I appreciate that they wanted people to respect the band by keeping voices down, but the staffs shushing was was louder then the talking, and frankly ruined the vibe. My wife was invited to sit with a random table of nice people, and I finally got a seat at the bar with a friend. I asked to frowing last bartender for a drink for my wife, and she refused, saying I had to order that one trough the waitress. They wouldn’t accept anything but cash, I’m assuming because they dont want to pay their taxes. After sitting for one minute, waitress came beside me and rudely told me to move, but they’re was no more space. I had to stand the remainder of the evening. We then watched the same waitress try to get through the crowd, knocking over and spilling drinks on the table next to us. She immediately turned to the people standing and rudely blamed them. Took forever to get drinks, and the staff was just plain rude. I would warn everyone to not go here. The place is quite historical inside, and the second band, Sabertooth, was darn good, but it doesn’t fix the fact that they treated their customers badly. I’ve never wanted my money back from a show in my whole life, but I feel like I blindly wasted the last night I could spend in the absolutely beautiful city of Chicago. The staff at every spot we visited was phenomenal, except for the b team at The Green Mill.

We did not eat here, we only listened to the gig that was on for the night. The atmosphere was tight, and the bar very busy. We enjoyed the evening and I would definitely visit again next time in Chicago.

This place is AWFUL..!!!! They do HIDEOUS POETRY. So stupid putting poetry in a bar. The guy who runs it is FERAL too. This bar should ditch them. Don’t go to it.

After reading so many positive reviews and finding interesting stories about this place, I was really looking forward to visiting it. However, we weren't lucky and didn't like the band that played that night: a combination of jazz and flamenco that didn't really match. Additionally, cocktails are overpriced and service is not that good.

This place has a striking ambiance. We know its history with Al Capone.. It exemplifies the peculiar and exotic feel of Uptown, something you cannot find elsewhere. The place was packed during a show by Patricia Barber. Still, everyone was comfortable watching and drinking, sometimes sharing a table. It is cash only, so be prepared.

The Green Mill is a fantastic jazz club, well worth visiting whether a local or a tourist. Easily accessible by the "L" or car, this place really deserves to be called "cool!" Top quality jazz performers, a full and impressive selection of drinks, and a commitment to the music. On our visit, we were treated to the amazing Flat Five! It was jam-packed and hot! But well worth every moment! The servers effectively climbed, zigged, and zagged their way through the crowd to get the drinks out, so it was all good. We paid a $15 cover charge, after waiting to get inside, since even at 8:15 pm, there was already a queue formed to gain entry.

Atmospheric and dark.... Just like Capone himself... Don't expect modern clean lines, it is like walking back in time! I defy you to not pretend to be one of the henchmen or molls whilst enjoying a drink in the darkly lit surroundings!

Came to this bar on a Thursday evening for Big Band Night. Good drinks and great music. Gets really full, so go early and claim a seat1

we went there at three. no music , nothing. just a bartender who was friendly . but said the music was from 11 pm to 4 am, what? dont peopl have to go to work. it been pretty cool to hear some blues. Ole Al Capones place ( one of them anyway) i dont think they changed a thing

Went to the Green Mill on my last trip to Chicago and was sorry that we hadn't had the good fortune to go there before. There's a $6 cover charge to get in - a very small price to pay for a great time. We didn't eat there, but had a couple of well-made drinks and enjoyed an excellent jazz band. Just bear in mind that it's cash only (no plastic), but that keeps the cost of the drinks very reasonable. I'll be returning to Chicago next month and am really looking forward to spending another great evening at the Green Mill!!

The Green Mill is an dark, old cocktail lounge with an unfriendly and generally indifferent staff. We visited the joint in order to see The Fat Babies, an absolutely great Chicago retro-jazz band. So, in other words, if you're going to The Green Mill to see a good band, it might be worth the trip. Otherwise, there are thousands of nicer (and friendlier) places to get a drink.

No food is served but they'll let you bring your own. Drink prices are reasonable. They have a small cover charge to pay the entainers. Bar is open until 4am. Service is friendly and efficient. Easy to get to by car or public transit. Al Capone used to hang there in the 20s & 30s so there are many stories about that.

History buff and Jazz lover here. My colleague and I were in Chicago for a conference and decided to check this place out, due to its reputation. Music was excellent. However, cover was overpriced ($15 on a Friday, which I get, but still, my wallet was weeping lol). Now, on to the staff. Our server definitely did not enjoy working there and she was only working for the paycheck. No smile, no hospitality. Now, getting to the host. He was disrespectful. I asked him about where we could sit in the club. He did not even respond and walked away. The 2nd time I asked him to take a picture of me sitting in Al Capone's booth [third booth in the middle section to the right, with the back to the stage, btw] and he walked away before I could finish my sentence. I never had that happen in my life, let alone twice (Thankfully my colleague took the picture for me). Now, having worked retail and in the service industry I totally get how busy things can get, especially on Fridays, and people's brains can get scrambled. And who knows? They may both have been having bad days. But they are being paid to be there. Sure the Economy is tough on all of us, but basic decency doesn't cost a dime. Come for the history, stay for the Jazz, don't expect much hospitality from the staff and the host, at least on a busy night.

This place used to be a speak easy in the past and it still reflects the exact decor. You can listen to the best jazz music in Chicago. Great musicians take stage, so to follow up the events and try to book in advance may be a good solution to be able to be seated up close to your favourite musicians. Can not wait to get back there for more.

Waited all year for my trip to the Green Mill, as soon as you step inside you can feel the nostalgia. I came when I found myself surrounded by death metal fans on some kind of pilgrimage and it was packed, found a seat at the bar and adjusted my eyes as it was quite dark. Waited patiently for the only barman/woman to serve me, his name was Jason and poor Jason for me, has the patience of an oyster, completely out of his depth with trying to serve shouting punters, clearing the bar of glasses and bottles, I felt so sorry for the guy. The decor hasn't changed and it was an amazing place to have a drink and chat with the locals. Bad points- cash only, no WiFi and only 1 bar person. In all, I'm glad I managed to vist and enjoyed the experience. BUT PLEASE GET JASON SOME HELP!! 😀👍

An easy train ride north on the red line and you can take a drink in the speak easy once owned by Al Capone. Now well known for music, you should be going here.

A must visit bar for jazz fans. The bar management has also maintained it that way. A cover charge is to be paid when you enter & the bar management has no more expectation from you for buying drinks/snacks. The ambiance is very good with most of the crowd being jazz fans. One of the booths is believed to have been Al Capone's favorite seat & you might be lucky to get a seat there. Though I would say, all seats are equally good.Choice of drinks available is reasonably good.

The ambiance makes you just want to feel good and enjoy the night. Good cocktails and great jam sessions.

Im sure you all know by now that this is where Al Capone used to hang. Its a great nostalgic space and the band we saw that night was incredible. Service was good. We were lucky to score a table within half an hour. Highly recommended.