Part of the Gay Chicago Guide — bars, events & things to do.
Chicago, Illinois
A hidden upstairs gay bar tucked above a Streeterville restaurant.
Second Story Bar has been open since 1984, tucked on the second floor above Sayat Nova restaurant in Streeterville, a short walk from the Magnificent Mile and all but invisible from the sidewalk. Founder John Tessler opened it as a post-retirement project and ran it until his death in 2012; regulars still treat it as a link to Tower Town, the queer enclave that once filled this stretch of the Near North Side. It's one of Chicago's oldest surviving gay bars, even if it isn't the very first. Inside it's small, dark and cash-only, with strong, cheap drinks and a longtime regular crowd that mixes after-work locals with hotel guests who'd rather skip the Northalsted scene. This is a hideaway, not a party — the kind of low-key second-floor bar you climb the stairs to for a real conversation and a stiff pour, steps from one of the busiest streets in the city.
Have feedback on this description? Let us knowGet the full experience — check in, follow this venue, and connect with the community.
No upcoming events
Try checking a later date or browse events in the app
Catch your city's vibe or the global LGBTQ+ scene.
No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Your complete guide to LGBTQ+ Chicago — the best gay bars, annual events, neighborhoods, hotels, and things to do in the Windy City.
This week in gay Chicago: four days of Pride-season nightlife, from Sidetrack's anniversary party to dance floors across Boystown and Andersonville. Plus Windy City Times' new 30 Under 30 class, Patagonia's lawsuit against Pattie Gonia, the Tonys' gayest moments, and our full Capital Pride 2026 guide.
Every Chicago pro team's Pride Night in one place — Cubs, White Sox, Sky, Fire FC, the Pride Bowl tournament, plus the Bulls and Blackhawks games that fall outside Pride Month.
Memorial Day weekend means three of the year's biggest gay events happening at the same time. Here's how to pick — plus every other LGBTQ+ event worth your May 2026.
$89
Experiences powered by Viator
