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Scofflaw

3201 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
$$$
New American, American

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Master Critic Review

Scofflaw 8.1
Logan Square
Scofflaw is a gin-focused cocktail bar where Victorian-inspired interiors, fireplaces, and a garden patio frame a food menu that goes well beyond bar snacks. Its acclaimed burger, late-night kitchen, and fresh-baked midnight cookies make it as much a dinner destination as a drinks spot.
Must-Try Dishes: Scofflaw Burger, Potato Gnocchi, Peach Galette
Scores:
Value: 6.5 Service: 8.2 Consistency: 8.2 Food Quality: 8 Atmosphere: 8.7 Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A gin temple with a serious kitchen, known for one of the city’s better bar burgers.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers who still care about dinner on the same check.
When to visit: Later evenings for full bar energy; earlier for easier seating.
What to order: Scofflaw burger, potato gnocchi, and a house gin cocktail.
Insider tip: Plan to stay past midnight at least once—the complimentary warm cookies are part of the ritual.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only — generally manageable on surrounding residential blocks, but can be tight after 7pm on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and boots are common, but many guests lean slightly dressy for evening cocktails.
Noise level: Moderate to loud later at night — conversation-friendly earlier in the evening, more lively as the bar fills.
Weekend wait: 30–60 min for walk-ins during peak hours; bar seating is usually easier than tables.
Weekday lunch: N/A — not open for lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — typically a few veg-forward small plates and sides, plus occasional pasta or salad options.
Vegan options: Limited — some sides and modifications may work, but the menu is not designed for strict vegan dining.
Gluten-free options: Partial accommodation — some dishes are naturally gluten-free or modifiable; no dedicated GF fryer or prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim lighting, fireplaces, and polished cocktails create an intimate, conversation-friendly vibe early in the evening; later hours skew livelier and more social.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — Scofflaw holds space for walk-ins, but expect a wait on weekends. Arriving early evening or being flexible with bar seating improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — it functions primarily as a cocktail bar with a late-night crowd. Older teens at early dinner hours may be fine, but it’s not suited for young children.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail-centric evenings where the drinks program and late-night kitchen (including the signature burger and midnight cookies) matter as much as dinner.
Skip if: You want a quiet, traditional sit-down restaurant, broad vegan/gluten-free options, or a family-oriented setting.