ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in River North
Best Happy Hour Mexican in River North
Master Critic Review
Bar Sótano
8.4
Hidden beneath Clark Street, Bar Sótano is an agave-focused speakeasy with a serious small-plates kitchen. Mezcal-heavy cocktails meet tlayudas, aguachiles, and bar bites that feel more chef-driven than typical bar food, making it ideal for nights that start with drinks and end as dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Black mole tlayuda, Bone marrow esquites, Shrimp and scallop aguachile
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Mezcal-centric basement bar where inventive Mexican small plates match the cocktails.
Who should go: Drink-focused diners wanting serious agave and chef-driven bar snacks.
When to visit: Later evenings for full bar energy and kitchen in sync.
What to order: Black mole tlayuda, bone marrow esquites, a seasonal aguachile.
Insider tip: Reserve bar seats for the best view of both the cocktail station and open kitchen.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in River North; most guests use nearby paid garages within a short walk. No reliable on-site valet — availability can vary by night.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jeans are fine if styled, but most guests skew cocktail-bar polished.
Noise level: Lively and energetic with music and bar traffic — conversation is possible at bar seats and two-tops, but group tables can feel loud during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins during peak late-evening hours; shorter if you’re flexible with bar seating.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — the venue operates primarily evenings rather than daytime lunch service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several small plates and snacks can be made vegetarian, but options are scattered across the menu rather than in a dedicated section.
Vegan options: Limited — expect 1–2 items or modifications; staff can guide you to mezcal-friendly dishes without dairy or meat.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — many items are naturally corn-based and can be prepared gluten-aware, but this is not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the speakeasy vibe, agave-focused cocktails, and shareable plates work well for a fun, slightly moody first date, especially if you sit at the bar or a two-top.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — walk-ins are common, but waits build on weekends. Arrive earlier in the evening or ask for bar seats if you want the best chance of being seated quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — it functions primarily as a cocktail-forward, late-evening venue better suited to adults and older teens.
Best For
Better for: Agave-centric cocktails, late-night energy, and small plates that feel more chef-driven than typical bar snacks.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, large-format entrées, or a family-friendly environment — a traditional sit-down restaurant may be a better fit.