Bernice's Tavern — Restaurant in Chicago

Upon initial arrival, l'm not gonna lie - I was a little hesitant. Dive bars are my thing, but this one reminded me of one of those hillbilly country bars with sparse options in liquor and potentially boring vibes. One other bar patron was in. No music was playing.

However... within five minutes, I could already tell I was going to like it here. Steve, who I later found out was the owner, was very hospitable & friendly, turning on music, catering to my silly request to see the stop light colors change, etc. Eventually, more people started arriving at the bar, including live music. Everything fell into place. It became a really great experience, where people were all friendly and welcoming. Bathroom was clean. Bar was clean. ATM works perfectly (it's a cash only bar).

I love good bars and "good vibes" (and hate the phrase good vibes but whatever it works here ) and if the shoe fits, hey, enjoy it while you can!

Oh and disclaimer - nothing wrong with a hillbilly bar, I tend to meet the best people at these hole in the wall establishments who've, ya know, actually lived their lives and have rich stories to share ☺️

If I'm back in Chicago, this'll be a place I'll try to visit again.

If you're local, better check it out. I'm an...

Calling this place a "dive-bar" is a disservice. It's a family run neighborhood bar with the works. Good music (from an awesome preloaded jukebox), a fair selection of beer, wines, and spirits, friendly and quick service, and a very laid back and welcoming atmosphere. The mood definitely gets more upbeat and rowdy(in a good way) when there are things like bingo (Stingo) or live music performances going on, but even when those aren't happening, you can bet there's an interesting film being played on their TV. The owner Steve runs a tight ship, and it shows. I urge anyone passing by or new to the area to come grab a beer on a weekend or weekday night (except Tuesdays because I don't think they're open those days). You're guaranteed to run into the colorful characters that make up the Bridgeport community. I live in the Midway area, and the drive to get here is more than worth the trip. Stop by, grab a beer, order some Japanese food from next door (or tacos across the street) and start a conversation. You'll be hooked immediately and...

One of the best bars on the South Side. Early in the day it is a neighborhood staple full of guys from around the corner who have lived here for thousands of years. Later on, the vibe turns a bit younger and hipper. Cash only, bottles and cans only, plus plain old mixed drinks, shot-n-beer sorta place. Sometimes they do open mics, host interesting musical acts, or Stingo...you'll just have to experience that. Mike and Steve, Bernice's sons, run the place, and grew up atop the bar where Herself...