ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour in Lincoln Square
Master Critic Review
The Getaway
7.8
A Lincoln Square cocktail bar designed for the after-work slide—cleanly made house cocktails, straightforward pricing, and a room that’s easy to settle into. Happy hour is strongest when you order one house cocktail and one snack early, then decide if you’re staying for the late-night energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
House cocktail (happy hour), Draft beer, Beer-and-shot combo
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 6.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A happy-hour-friendly cocktail bar with clear deals and an easy hang.
Who should go: Cocktail drinkers and post-work meetups
When to visit: Happy hour for best pricing and space
What to order: House cocktail deal, draft pour, beer-and-shot combo
Insider tip: Start with a house cocktail first—then shift to drafts if you’re staying longer.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Lincoln Ave and nearby side streets; generally manageable earlier in the evening, tighter after 7pm. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine; elevate slightly if it’s a date.
Noise level: Moderate during happy hour; louder late-night when the bar fills.
Weekend wait: 15–30 min after 7pm on busy nights
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — bar-focused, typically no wait during early happy hour
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited snack-friendly options; suitable for light bites rather than a full meal.
Vegan options: Very limited — plan to drink-first.
Gluten-free options: Drinks are the safest bet; food options are limited.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially during happy hour. The room is relaxed, cocktails are straightforward, and it’s easy to talk before the late-night energy ramps up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes if you arrive early. Walk-ins work best before peak evening hours; later at night you may be standing or waiting briefly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really. This is an adult-oriented cocktail bar best suited for 21+ crowds.
Best For
Better for: Reliable happy hour cocktails, casual dates, and after-work meetups where drinks matter more than food.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a full dinner menu, quiet conversation late at night, or strong dietary-accommodation options.