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Dorothy
Bar

Dorothy

Chicago’s subterranean lesbian bar for cocktails, conversation and creative queer events.

Chicago, USA

Neighbourhood

Chicago

Category

Bar

Vibe

Lesbian bar, Queer bar +8

Official website

About Dorothy

Dorothy is a dedicated lesbian bar located on the lower level of 2500 West Chicago Avenue. Guests enter through an unmarked red door, giving the venue the intimate feel of a hidden basement lounge. The bar offers cocktails, spirit-free drinks and comfortable seating in a warm setting designed for conversation, dates and evenings with friends. Its programme regularly brings together Chicago’s sapphic and wider queer communities through mixers, film screenings, DJs, live performances, readings and other special events. The atmosphere varies depending on the calendar. Some nights are relaxed and social, while ticketed events and weekend gatherings can become much busier. Check the official events page before visiting, particularly when travelling for a specific performance or community night. Dorothy is part of the Friends of Dorothy Bars collective and is led by owners Zoe Schor and Whitney LaMora. The venue provides elevator access for guests who need it and has four gender-neutral accessible restrooms. Private rentals and full venue buyouts are also available for celebrations and creative projects.

What to expect

An intimate subterranean lesbian cocktail lounge with comfortable seating and a diverse programme of queer events. Expect a relaxed atmosphere on quieter evenings and larger crowds during popular community nights.

Vibes

Good to know

Practical tips before you visit

A physical photo ID is required for entry
Enter through the unmarked red door on Chicago Avenue
The venue is located on the lower level
Elevator access is available from Campbell Avenue
Happy hour is usually available from 6pm to 7pm on event-free weeknights

Gallery

Location

Dorothy

2500 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622

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WhereIs.Gay rating

4.6

195 reviews

Overall rating across Google Maps.

Rating by source

  • Google Maps
    4.6

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Featured Google Maps reviews

Selected by Google Maps. Read more reviews on Google Maps.

Lou Lou
Lou Lou

a month ago

I have never felt so safe, seen, and belonged at a bar! Dorothy is a fantastic spot for shes and theys but is welcome to all. At most bars, I feel the need to cover my drink and watch my back but here I didn’t feel the need to do any of that! They have this ADORABLE Photo Booth that surprises you with the timing so the pictures come out super cute. Excellent alcohol selection the cider is delicious! Karaoke night was a blast we all built each other up and had an amazing time! Open super late too. Pride!!!🏳️‍🌈

Review from Google Maps

Jasmine Seales
Jasmine Seales

3 months ago

I came here Friday night while visiting from out of town and oh my goshhhhh it is SO CUTE! It was karaoke night and everyone was having an absolute blast. The DJ/Host was so great and kind and played great music during breaks from karaoke. The vibes were immaculate here. It was my birthday and the whole room sang to me and truly the happiest birthday I have had. It's amazing to be in such an inclusive space for your community. I'll have to come here again next time I'm in Chicago!

Review from Google Maps

Carolyn McCormick
Carolyn McCormick

2 months ago

Absolutely one of the best lesbian spots I’ve ever been too. Stopped here on a short 2 day trip. Spot definitely has a speak easy vibe. The drinks were phenomenal and the people were so sweet. My partner and I initially could not find the place but some lovely ladies outside noticed we were together and rightfully assumed we were probably looking for this spot. Thank you to whoever they were! We only stayed probably a little over an hour, but the time there was magical. I wish there were more lesbian spots around the country just like this, it was perfect!

Review from Google Maps

Isa
Isa

3 weeks ago

I didnt have any of their food but they were fast at making drinks! And I love the atmosphere there! Super cozy and open! We went during a karaoke night ans it was such a blast!

Review from Google Maps

Came here for a coworker’s chill birthday plans and it was cute a cute place! It was nice to see everyone vibe together for their karaoke night🫶🏾 The drinks and atmosphere are 10/10! (Even the bartenders got up for karaoke!) *Please be respectful of the community here 🙂‍↕️

Review from Google Maps

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Listing details

Last updated
22 July 2026
Listed in
Chicago › United States
Data from
WhereIs.Gay community, the venue and Google