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About
Queen Mary
Step aboard Queen Mary, a gem nestled at 2125 W Division St, Chicago, where cocktail magic meets cozy ambiance. This delightful bar is more than just a drinking establishment; it’s an experience that seamlessly combines inventive beverages, a warm atmosphere, and an inviting community vibe.
At Queen Mary, flavor knows no bounds. Patrons rave about their excellent seasonal selections, including the ever-changing Daily Grog, a rum punch bursting with fresh citrus and spices, perfect for anyone looking to sip on something unique. If you’re in the mood for a twist on a classic, the Copper G&T, featuring Greenall's London dry gin, roasted pineapple, and poblano pepper, is a refreshing delight you won't want to miss.
The draft selection is equally impressive, offering local brews like Aquanaut’s “The Queen's Best” Bitter and Aquanaut’s “Madhouse” Mild, both priced at $8. For those who prefer bottles and cans, the bar provides options like Coors Banquet Lager and Pabst Blue Ribbon Lager for just $4. The variety ensures there’s something for every palate, making it an ideal spot for gatherings.
- The ambiance is highlighted by cozy seating arrangements and dim lighting, tailored for intimate conversations among friends or romantic dates.
- Regulars enjoy special events like movie nights, complete with free popcorn, and oyster happy hours that elevate the dining experience.
- The attentive staff, including notable team members like Dan, Tad, Jon, and Barrett, effortlessly create a welcoming environment that feels like home.
Queen Mary is not just a bar; it’s a community hub where locals and travelers alike converge to enjoy their evening. As customer Michael Damato puts it, “Absolutely a must-go for locals and travelers alike.” With inventive cocktails, friendly service, and a cozy ambiance, Queen Mary fulfills the promise of a perfect night out.
So whether you fancy a classic Martini, an innovative Negroni, or simply wish to unwind with friends, Queen Mary offers an array of delightful experiences that linger long after your final toast. Cheers to a night of unforgettable flavors aboard this enchanting venue!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Oh la la... my favorite cocktail bar in the area! Waiters are perfectly friendly without being "extra", the whole ambiance is cozy and unique, and the cocktails are delicious! ”
“ Neighborhood bar with oyster happy hours, movie nights, and a rotating upscale menu. If you love obscure gins this is the bar for you. There's a limited small bites menu available as well, and on movie nights popcorn is free! Noise levels even when crowded are good and the dimly lit ambiance lends itself to quiet conversations. Absolutely a must go for locals and travelers alike. ”
“ Great and inventive cocktails served by a great team! Dan, Tad, Jon, Omar, Amy, and Barrett are phenomenal at making you feel welcomed aboard the Queen Mary! Kudos to the entire gang! Now, fancy a Martini or a Negroni?!? ”
“ Queen Mary was the perfect place to spend NYE. The manager Dan, and the rest of the staff, were hustling to make sure everyone had an enjoyable and memorable experience. This included a free glass of champagne and a warm friendly atmosphere throughout the holiday. Cheers! ”
“ came here because of esquire’s ranking. It lived up to the hype; we had truly one of every drink and they were fantastic. Our servers were so speedy, the whitefish dip was great, the vibe matched. ”
“ "WAIT. I have to take you somewhere," my friend explained suddenly as we walked out of the establishment and down the street. "Queen Mary. It's my favorite bar in Chicago." And yeah, as always, bestie was right. Such a cool, unique vibe. Never seen a bar where you can sit on both sides. Dimly lit, mature vibe. Elevated drink menu. The Chantilly Lace was just the perfect about of sweet and garnished beautifully. Give Mary the visit she deserves! ”
“ The ambiance and decor were fun and cozy. The drinks were flavorful, including the signature drinks and standards. ”
“ In Wicker Park, where Division Street once housed seven bustling taverns, a remarkable resurrection story unfolds twice weekly. Queen Mary Tavern's oyster happy hour—Sundays 3-7 PM and Mondays 5-7 PM—offers 3 oysters and 9 classic martinis in what may be Chicago's most storied drinking establishment. The backstory reads like urban legend made real. Mary Kafka operated this Polish tavern with her husband in the 1970s until family tragedy struck, prompting her to shutter the business and leave it virtually untouched for nearly 40 years. When Matt Eisler and Kevin Heisner of Heisler Hospitality finally convinced the 92-year-old "Queen of Division Street" to let them revive the space in 2015, they found a perfect time capsule. Much of the original 1970s woodwork remains—bar counter, back bar, wood-paneled walls, and slatted ceiling—creating an authentic maritime atmosphere that feels like a ship's cabin. Kafka, who still lives upstairs, approved of the restoration, beaming at the results "like he's her grandson." The concept celebrates British maritime drinking traditions, highlighting navy-strength gin and rum—the preferred spirits of British sailors for over 300 years. The backbar focuses especially on gin, rum, and Scotch whisky, with bartenders happy to create custom cocktails. Fair warning: seats fill quickly, especially in nice weather, and seafood may sell out before happy hour ends. Smart drinkers arrive at opening time or ask about the Daily Grog—Queen Mary's ever-changing rum punch that's usually cheaper than main menu cocktails. The quirky programming extends beyond oysters. Tuesday movie nights feature free popcorn and themed cocktail specials, with films projected on the back wall at 8 PM. The signature Navy Strength Old Fashioned blends cask-strength rum and gin with Demerara and Angostura, while the rotating Daily Grog serves seasonal citrus and spice over crushed ice. The unique dual-sided peninsula bar allows patrons to sit facing each other, while three enormous booths accommodate groups of eight for serious merrymaking. Maritime touches include mermaid coat hooks and purse hooks under booth tables, plus modern amenities like electrical chargers. This isn't just happy hour—it's historical preservation with a side of bivalves, where Chicago's drinking past meets present in perfectly shucked perfection. ”