Chicago's late night scene centers on neighborhood spots and 24-hour diners. When bars close at 2am (or 4am with proper licensing), the city's legendary food scene is ready and waiting.
24-Hour Spots
The Wieners Circle
Lincoln Park | Until 5am Fri-Sat
Famous for hot dogs and verbal abuse. A Chicago late-night institution.
Portillo's
Multiple locations | Until midnight+
Chicago-style dogs, Italian beef, chocolate cake shake.
White Palace Grill
South Loop | 24 hours
Old-school diner since 1939. Greek-American classics around the clock.
Golden Apple
Lincoln Park | 24 hours
Classic diner, great for late-night breakfast. DePaul student staple.
Tacos & Quick Bites
L'Patron
Logan Square | Until 4am
Late-night tacos after 4am bar close. Perfect post-party fuel.
Taqueria El Asadero
Logan Square | Until 4am
Al pastor, suadero. Real-deal tacos late into the night.
Big & Little's
River North | Until 3am
Fish tacos and burgers. River North's go-to late-night spot.
Chicago Late Night Tips
- 4am bars exist: Some neighborhoods have late licenses. Plan accordingly.
- Wicker Park/Logan are late: Best concentration of late options.
- Hot dogs are everywhere: Never more than a few blocks away.
- The L runs late: Trains run 24/7 on weekends (with gaps).