Bernice’s Tavern
3238 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL, 60608
Bernice’s Tavern Menu
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Address :
3238 S Halsted St
Chicago, IL, 60608 - Phone (312) 813-3215
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :3:00 pm - 12:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : No
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Music : Live, Juke Box
Good For Dancing : Yes
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Wed, Thu, Fri
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Has TV : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Alina K.
Super fun bar on the south side...Awesome music and great bartenders. On Thursdays they have open mic with some really talented acts.
(5)T T.
What can I say but this is your grandfathers bar from back when, nothing changed! Family run, wonderful people, typical neighborhood Bridgeporters mixed with hipsters. They have Stingo Wed and actually give the cutest prizes. Love this place.
(5)Steven W.
PBR and a shot of Ev Williams for $5? I'm in. For a neighborhood bar, this place was most welcoming to me when I was a newbie to the area and the city. It has an old-school divey vibe that Bridgeport exudes as a whole and Steve the bartender is good at tending to his patrons, a lot of whom he knows very well. Don't forget to ring the buzzer to be let in! It's a great little watering hole post-Sox game, too, when you don't want to get caught up in the horde of people walking the other direction towards the Red Line.
(5)Jimmy B.
Dude. Stop in and have a shot and beer and check out a hipster or two and have a laugh on them.
(4)Albert W.
The first time I went to Bernice's Tavern I didn't know what to expect. My wife and I decided to have a night out just like we did in college, when we didn't care about features like the décor. With this in mind, we saw this bar and decided to give it a shot. I must say we haven't had so much fun since that night! Once we entered, the bartender started asking if we were from Chicago, while a guy who was standing next to him helped us decide what to drink. We found that very nice yet unusual, as we always thought this type of bar exists only in movies. I must say the Lithuanian beer was delicious and cheaper than in other places, so this place is perfect in case you want to get drunk without spending too much money. The décor is very laid back and friendly, encouraging pleasant conversations with people you haven't even met before. Besides, Bernice's Tavern is located in the vicinity of a police station, so you'll never have to worry about your safety. And that's not all! On every Thursday night the staff organizes an open-mic night, while on Saturdays you get the chance to listen to live music played by local bands. In my opinion, Bernice's Tavern is one of the most amazing bars in Chicago. You will certainly plan your next night out once you discover all these wonderful features.
(5)Joseph M.
Every dive should look to this hole in the wall as an example on how to run a got dang saloon. Somehow manages to have the locals (Bridgeporters) and the hipster invasion in a amiable atmosphere. To the locals the hipsters are quirky, to the hipsters the locals are kitschy! And all of this facilitated by very accommodating management, owners, and bartenders. Stingo and Open Mic are great fun! And as if that wasn't enough they have ALCOHOL that gets you drunk!
(5)Sarah C.
It seemed like your pretty standard dive. I wasn't floored with it, but it was alright. Granted, I didn't come on bingo night but I did come on open mic night. It was me, a friend, and an old English guy talking history to the young lady he was with. I don't know if 8pm was their lull period but there wasn't a ton going on. I will definitely go back after a Sox game just to see Steve the bartender. He was a wonderfully nice guy who was really delightful to talk to and always kept my drink full. Maybe it was just a really slow night, but it wasn't anything to write home about for me.
(3)Russ S.
Been going to this place for over 8 years. Steve is the coolest. The bar is pretty much what a bar should be. I love it.
(5)Xi Z.
Maybe not as good as it gets, but definitely a nice dive bar. First of all, the service was EXCELLENT. I didn't order much, just a $2 PBR (good deal), but the bartender went out of her way to find us stools in the limited space. The beer selection was pretty decent too, with lots of labels I didn't recognize. Everyone seemed really friendly and happy, and it wasn't creepy. Not the largest or most beautiful bar, but products and service are its selling points. Wish they offered food, but you can bring your own. I will be returning to try more cheap beer!
(5)Genni N.
If you live in the neighborhood, this is the best bar. Cheap drinks and friendly people.
(5)Sally W.
It's the Platonic ideal of dive bars. If you know what that is, you'll be happy.
(5)Ashley M.
Cozy, family owned "dive". Cheap drinks...PBR and a shot of Evan Williams is 5 bucks. Steve, the owner, is a funny and down to earth guy. His parents opened the place. They have an old school jukebox and good bands on the weekends. Favorite spot in Bridgeport.
(5)Kevin M.
Stopped in after a Sox game on Wednesday afternoon. Loved the idea of being buzzed in. Bartender was friendly, beers were cold, and they have Malort!
(5)Mitchell H.
I met a man here who traded an ipad for a car.
(5)Jon C.
My Fav.
(5)S S.
Was in the area and looking to kill some time on Sunday. This old school tavern caught my eye. Man am I happy I stopped in! The sox were in the 8th and the place had about 12 regulars at the bar. Very "old school" friendly vibe. Nice selection of imports and at $4 what a great deal!!! Had a few Sierra Nevada's... Bartender / owner "Steve" was totally cool! I felt right at home! Can't wait to be back in the area to visit again!!!! Great neighborhood tavern. Friendly locals.
(5)Elizabeth F.
I heard great things about Bernice's Tavern & finally had a chance to stop in for a visit. Looks like I found my local watering hole! I stopped in to have a drink & catch some of the Sox game on the tube. I was alone & just grabbed a seat at the bar. Within moments I was served a nice, cold drink. The atmosphere is very casual & laid back. I adore the holiday lights flashing about above the bar & the fun, vintage decor collection. I was very honored to meet the owner of Bernice's Tavern. He even took the time to show me a framed photo of himself as a child with his family including the tavern's namesake, Bernice, his mother. I really liked how friendly the owner was to me as a new customer. I will be back again & again! I am a huge fan of supporting local, family-owned businesses.
(5)Sara S.
Love this place. No frills, just a great place to stop in for a few.
(5)Pascal M.
Family owned in the growing area of Bridgeport, Bernice's is a bad ass dive that gives you the feeling there have been a lot of wild nights in there. Couple friends and I killed some time at the bar with Mike before a dinner in Chinatown during the Bears first preseason game ('12). Mike tends his bar with all the characteristics I have come to love in a good bar keep. He has stories, jokes, listens (as much as needed...), and he's not afraid to keep his bar stool warmers in line. Solid pours of Guinness, extra tall jame-o shots, and the occasional drink on the house makes this a fine spot for a guy like me. Plus he's got a dartboard, occasional live music, cool bathroom, and all sorts of wacky stuff around the bar that will make you chuckle or laugh out loud because of the crazy night you spent there.
(5)Patty B.
Oasis on a lonely stretch of Halsted. A sincere bar with all the attributes a small, inexpensive saloon should have. Could use more patronage because it SHOULD NOT slip away after 50 years. GO THERE: easy to park, you can bring over excellent food from the San Jose across the street. Chicago humanity needs to find itself at Bernice's.
(5)Michael E.
I heart southside.....though I'm still wanting to find a bar with some great single women.......but I digress. Bernice......I SPECIFIcALLY heart you....... Why? You're the only bar I know that I have to get buzzed in. Folks are nice....and will talk to you and strike up conversation in a heartbeat..... There is some good free music a few days a week Beer is cheap.... Mike, son of Bernice, is a great bartender and quick with a few stories of the place over the years... Jukebox is great, albeit a bit in disrepair. Cash only....F**K the banks?!?!?! A police station just down the block, so no safety issues (for those Northsiders that question this part of town....pssssststts....wha evr...) A true flavor of folk and places that give you a real sense of the real deal in Chicago........visit this place if you so dare as you probably won't regret it....if you do, you'll probably too uptight anyway?
(5)Rene P.
I was initially apprehensive about going into Bernice's. The whole buzzer thing made me think that I would feel unwelcome there. Wow, I could not have been more wrong! I've spent a reasonable amount of time in Bernice's now and cannot say enough good things about the owners, the crowd or bands that I have seen there. My only issues are that they don't have draft beer, and they are not open on Tuesday. Otherwise, great place, great people. Stingo on Wednesdays is a blast. It just starts a little late for us early risers to go on a regular basis. And the jukebox is great! My favorite times at Bernice's are Saturday afternoons. Stop in there around 2 or 3, you might be alone or the place might be packed, but it is the right kinda place to have a few beers and waste an afternoon.
(4)Caroline D.
This is a great neighborhood bar. I don't live around there, but have made many trips to hang out at Bernice's. I usually drink Lithuanian beer there, Svyturys. They have a great selection of other beers, too. And they have Kokomo on the jukebox. I love Bernice's.
(5)Hana B.
Maybe I came here on a bad night, but it was just 'ok' for a divie. Definitely felt like a townie bar, but had interesting conversations with some colorful characters. I was being a lame-o and didn't have any of the Lithuanian beer. I do dig the buzzer though. Ended the night with one of my friends sitting in the back seat of some big, Irish dude's Harley (this same Irish dude kept calling me 'oriental' all night long, which I thought was actually freaking hilarious).
(3)J. F.
They don't know my name yet, and I'm not sure they ever will. . . but I'm from the neighborhood. I go to hear Dan Whitaker and The Shinebenders. It's just a nice, cool, little bitty bar.
(4)Candice G.
My new favorite bar... and luckily, it's close to work for those days where you just need easy access to lots of alcohol (weekdays) (okay, weekends, too). We buzzed in here last Friday night (and I DO mean buzzed) in search of a good ole fashioned good time and that's exactly what we found. I got a delicious Lithuanian beer, listened to some great tunes on their old fashioned juke box, had some great convos with bartender Mike and some of the regulars (all very friendly and super cool- word up to Guillermo!), and then I rocked out on the dart board. Yes, I rocked it... rocked it till the lights came on and the bar closed up. I left happy and woke up in my bed, still in my clothes and make up and moving a little slow in the brand new day. Twas a great night and I will sooo be back next week. :)
(5)Felicia Y.
I freaking love a bar with a buzzer.
(5)Rachel R.
Another great night for Singo! (Wednesday nights are the best i think to come here) Great prices, great people and a great time!! Just don't forget to have a good time. They take cash ONLY, so be prepared to drink on whats in your wallet.
(5)Rachel H.
Yet another adorable, divey, cash only, neighborhood haunt that won't kick out the art kids (30 year olds who pretend they are still kids) who are clearly already at least two sheets to the wind. Good prices. Good atmosphere. Why have I not been hanging out here the 3+ years that I've lived in the area? Clearly I am a moron.
(5)Marina O.
AWESOME bar. Great service! The beer selection is phenom! Steve and Mike are very personable. AND ...Bloody Mary Sundays are the BEST!!
(5)Meghan O.
Interesting mix of regs & first timers. It's a friendly place where everyone likes to drink. What more could you ever ask for in a bar? That's right, nothing... If you're in the area, check it out.
(5)Carol K.
As I walked up the step to Bernice's, I wondered just what the magic word was that was going to get me buzzed in the front door. Buzzed in! Now that's something you don't see every day! But I guess I passed muster as the buzzer buzzed and suddenly I found myself in a neighborhood place filled with locals and tons of quirky charm. The bartender/owner Mike, was quick to welcome me and not recognizing me as a regular asked if I had just moved to the area or was visiting. At the same time, the guy next to me was offering me a taste of his Lithuanian beer as if to help me make up my mind as to what to order. How friendly is that? I settled on a drink and took a look around. Mike and his brother Steve are artists as well as bartenders so their artwork decorates the walls. They may ask you which one you like best so choose wisely. There is a bit of a competition going on! There is open mic night on Thursdays and live music on Saturday nights. The jukebox is a bit quirky as it requires you to pick from the song list book for the song numbers but is loaded with great tunes from the present and past (and for those of you who know what I always pick, YES, that song you all hate is on there!). And Mike is sure to crank up those tunes that he likes the best! The beer selection is fairly large and includes some Lithuanian and Czech beers to please the local clientele. There is also plenty of street parking and the locals tell me that you "really don't have to pay the meters unless there is a Sox game". But play it safe. There is a police station right next door! Bernice's is cash only and the bartender may just slip a free drink or two in during your visit (thanks Mike!) Drinks are cheap ($3 for a beer) and the service is spot on and friendly. Even the bathroom is clean! I think the sign that I had been accepted as "A-Ok" was when Mike pulled out a family photo of him, his brother Steve and his mom Bernice from back in the 70's to show me how long he's been at the bar. Nice. Love the "realness" of south side bars and the people in them. As I was putting on my coat to leave, I got a shout out of goodbye and a friendly wave. And on that note- I buzzed myself out the door and stepped into the wintery night.
(5)Devin C.
My favorite bar in town, and a very enjoyable place to hang out. Wednesdays are a hoot if you like bingo and good drinks. Steve and Melissa are real fun people, and the regulars are down to earth.
(5)Maureen S.
A great example of a working person's dive bar in a working person's neighborhood. Competent, hard working bartenders, live music, affordable drinks, and a decent bottle selection. Have yourself a Magic Hat and kick back with the locals.
(4)Andrew M.
Bernice's Tavern is the real deal. One of Chicago's best taverns. Anyone can come into this space, not knowing a soul and make friends. Steve keeps things interesting with bingo (stingo) on Wednesdays, open mic Thursdays (often with killer complimentary eats) live music on weekends and more. Good peoples here!
(5)Mindy S.
A divebar in Bridgeport ranked as high as Alinea on Yelp? Hell, I'll put 5 stars on it......Had some good nights here when my friends play music in the back.....nothing special, but hilarious Yelp ranking
(5)Damien M.
Nice mixture of folks and always interesting to visit here. Great staff and jukebox. The open mike session is very entertaining. I have managed to resist spoiling the evening so far!
(4)Lisa L.
Finally made it up to Bernice's tonight and had a decent time. They have a nice beer selection and a lot of character - two things that I appreciate when I'm looking for a place to have a couple drinks with friends. Head here if you want to get into some interesting conversations with the regulars, or rub elbows with the growing Bridgeport/McPark hispter/artist/student crowd; interestingly enough, it was kind of an even mix of both tonight, but not in a bad way at all. I really want to come back here some night when there is live entertainment, so I'm sure this post will be updated again soon.
(4)Sean R.
During my first visit to Bernice's, one of the regulars, an old timer, struck up a conversation with me. He asked if I had a girlfriend. I said I did. He asked what she looked like. I described her attributes, adding that she was, umm, buxom. The guy said, "Ah, that's not my type. I like a woman with a ballerina body." And with that, he whipped out his cell phone, scrolled through a few images, and held it up for me to see: a nude picture he'd taken of some skinny woman he banged. "Now THAT'S what I'm talking about!" he exclaimed. Usually I feel awkward going to bars by myself, but that's not the case with Bernice's. It's mostly old timers there when I go. They're welcoming and talkative. From politics to sports to literature to, yeah, tales of sexual conquest (sometimes with accompanying photos for chrissake), Bernice's is never dull. The bartender, Steve, knows how to treat his customers. Plus, he plays good music and gets my drunk ass giggling with his one-liners when he calls Bingo on Wednesday night. If you live in Bridgeport and insist on strangling the life out of your liver, go here.
(5)Lindsay B.
My first visit here: a commercial featuring Kent Rose played on the TV while Kent Rose was standing in front of it singing Hank Williams. My most recent visit here: a woman had a seizure during bingo. Every visit here: best. favorite bar. Also, the only recent album in the jukebox is a 2003 Grammy nominees compilation (you know, in case you want to listen to Eminem's "without me" in between Johnny Cash tracks.)
(5)Cristiano D.
When you want great lie blues and good drinks in Chicago.. This will forever be the place i remember... Best staff, best music, best crowd... You cannot leave chicago without going here at least once.
(5)Matthew M.
Most of the time when you go into Bernice's, you are walking into a tight-knit friendly and damn eclectic crowd in age, lifestyle, and choice of poison. You can drink high-gravity black-out-juice imported Lithuanian beer or just settle for a Pabst or a whiskey. Bernice is usually milling around looking like the Queen Elizabeth of Bridgeport. The open mics are fun and draw musicians of all talent range and has a really welcoming tone. Donny struggles to resist playing all the time. It's a local institution and it is not going anywhere, so drink up this Bridgeport scene, all adorned with all the random crap you can occupy your eyes with while you drown your sorrows... or keep moving, no one at Bernice's will shed a tear for ya.
(4)Julie H.
When I was younger, this is what I imagined a bar to be. You're at a home away from home. Cash Only. There is a Citibank down the street if you need some dough. I'm a sucker for kitschy decorations. Who else is with me? Christmas lights always set the mood for fun. Although I must ask, what is up with doll collections in Bridgeport? Nevertheless, I couldn't ask for more! The beers usually come in cans with a glass. Think what you may, I have no objections to this because that guarantees a good selection without the marked-up price. Jukebox ALWAYS seems to be playing good tunes. That is a rare find these days and that alone warrants 5 stars. The owners are so warm and friendly. Steve will always introduce himself and make conversation. Bernice is absolutely adorable. Even if you're from out of town, they make you feel like a local. All of these combined make for one incredibly excellent neighborhood tavern. If you been wondering what your life's been missing, it's a visit to Bernice's.
(5)Aaron B.
You get buzzed in...what's better than that? No beers on tap, small, dimly lit, PBR Bingo! What's not to love? A great neighborhood bar in the quirky Bridgeport. I don't go here often, but love it when I do. Get the $6 fat Tire 22oz...best deal in the house. Well almost as good as the $2 PBR cans.... If ever in Bridgeport and looking for a nice bar go here - they might not buzz you in though if you look scruffy :)
(5)Grace L.
Best little Bridgeport dive secret. You can actually enjoy a drink with someone and be able to hear your conversation. Some places are too crowded, loud, expensive and annoying. Thank goodness Bernice's is the total opposite of all that. See you all there. Cheers!
(5)Nathan P.
I think most of the positive reviews are from insiders trying to prop up their own agenda. There is no beer on tap, only bottles and cans. There is no kitchen, only salty snacks. They charge by the ounce for liquor and are stingy about it too. That means if you want a Long Island Iced tea it costs 12 bucks..yikes. If you must use the restroom make sure to lock the door because if the door opens everyone will easily see you. To see Boringnice's so high on the list for light life entertainment makes me question Yelp all together. Again it must be friends and family who give most of these high reviews.
(2)Diana S.
Wonderful, unique bar in Bridgeport. If you're looking for a cozy bar with a neighborhood feel - this is your spot. We went in as a group and had a great time - live music, but not so noisy that you can't hear each other talk. Outstanding bartender. This is on our favorite stop list--
(5)Becky S.
Bernice's Tavern was lovely. i was greeted very fast and felt at home. I got a red stripe, popped it open then sat in the back to enjoy, I noticed a monkey brain on the wall, perhaps its a walnut, i don't know. Bernice's remind me of the Tom Waits album Alice for some reason. !!Great place you got there Bernice, i will be seeing ya soon,!!
(5)Melanie B.
I had heard about this bar from my friend in Columbus and my other friend who lives in Bridgeport - they love Bernice's. I was very excited to actually finally see this place, because when I lived in Chicago, I unfortunately didn't spend much, enough, time on the South Side... and now I'm kicking myself in the ass. Bernice's is just my kind of bar, and I wish I had all day to hang out here. I'm glad we were Saturday day-drinking, but I am disappointed that I missed Saturday metal night.. I will definitely be back here to check this out next time I'm in town. The bartender was nice, and this is my friend's "place," so it was definitely good experience, me drinking a PBR with some of the most lovely people I know. I LOVE dives, and this is a great one.
(4)Paul F.
Solid neighborhood bar. Friendly and affordable. Well decorated. Here's what up though- This is the only bar South of Cermak that serves decent bourbon. Really, try it. Go any where else (Confessions? The Cove? The Apartment? Just One More? The Alibi? Sexty-sex?) and order a Maker's, Knob, Bullet..whatever keep it simple and ask for Maker's and you'll get the same answer "Um, You want crown on the rocks?" I'm just saying that Bernice's is up on that and they're cheap about it with a strong pour.
(4)Stove P.
What I liked about Bernice's *Being buzzed in (like Seinfeld...or any other apartment) *Pretty Christmas lights *Bartenders that talk to you like friends and not in a weird condescending way *Drinking PBR with a straw (I do it everywhere but felt extra comfortable here) *Speaking of PBR...$2 PBR!!! What I didn't like about Bernice's Paying for my friend's drink because she didn't have cash. Eh, whatever. Can't wait to see you again, Bernice!
(5)Audrey T.
Not a hole in the wall - more like a bar behind a door in a building. What does that mean exactly? It means that this place is pretty much a typical bar. There's some interesting stuff hanging on the walls, some interesting blue-collar locals hanging out on the stools, and a big ole' juke box hanging out on the floor. So basically, a hanging out place. Which, ironically, there's not exactly a lot of space to hang out in here. I some how managed to get into a bizare spot between the two bathroom doors, and if I watched a video of myself over my time there, the video would probably look like I was flapping my door arms. Not a bad place to bring your door arms.
(4)Molly G.
This bar is GREAT. Friendly locals and the buzzer on the door is hilarious. It's constant entertainment to see who's at the door. I drank a Baltas (ukrainian beer) that came in a half-liter bottle for $5. Be careful -the alcohol volume is over 5% so it's like drinking 3 beers in one go. Wednesday night is bingo night sponsored by Pabst. It's free to play and I won some PBR tube socks. Thursday night is open mic night and I hear it's pretty roaring.
(4)Suzanne E.
What a beautiful place. Small, dark, cozy. glowing, cheap, and the bartender/owner was really welcoming and kind. Since it was early afternoon and I was the only person there (stopping in to check it out during a junk-store excursion on Halsted), I didn't get to meet the regulars. I'll be back, even though it's three buses away from where I live. I just hope they never change the way it looks. Whoever put the decor together over the past 45 years is an artist. It's a jewel in every sense.
(5)Marie G.
What a friendly neighborhood bar... Great bartender Mike such a great attitude he has....he really knows how to treat people...If your looking for a friendly bar great people, live music, great juke box just go visit Bernices...I promise you will go back again.....
(5)Glenn C.
I had a great time as this place! The owner and cliental are very friendly as I was there waiting for friends for a good 45 minute stretch and had nice little interactions with the folks around me. The prices were fair and the decor was great. They had a live band belting out some down home music which only added to the charm. It also had an uncanny way of weeding out the bar folk that one typically stops going to bars because of. Both groups of people who seemed to disrupt the laid back feeling in the bar were in and out within a 20 minute period. Once my friends got there, we enjoyed good beer, great convo, and an episode of Cheaters playing on mute on the TVs behind the bar. Good times.
(5)Liz S.
Amazing dive bar! The owner bartends and knows most of the people who walk in by name. Also, it's a SOX bar! They have open mic on Thursday and bands play on Friday (I believe I could be wrong on the live music night). I was even told that they had just redone the usic area for better sound quality. Everyone is welcoming in here, and when I was here I didn't buy a single drink. People I didn't even know bellied up and bought 6 beers for me and the same for my friend. Best part about this bar, other than the Sox part, is that their drink markers are mini rubber chickens. I saved one for my return. They don't serve food, but you're allowed to order in. Also, the dcor is the regular dive bar nick nacks.
(5)Timothy M.
There's nothing like a good south side bar crawl, whether in the dead of winter or in the dead heat of summer. After stumbling through the snow with my buddy, stopping at bar after shitty bar on Halsted, we found what could possibly be THE best bar in the city of Chicago. You must be buzzed in, but there's nothing intimidating about this place (see my review of Joe Sheehan's 35th Street Tap for that subject). The bar was peppered with regulars: old, young, in between, black, white, Hispanic, etc. So we ordered up some cheap beer. But unlike most other places down here, they had more options than Miller Lite in a bottle, cup, or can. So I tried this Lithuanian beer called "Baltas". If you ever get the chance to snatch up some of this stuff, do yourself the favor. The Baltas Wheat could easily go into a ring with some of my favorite German Wheat beers and it'd be a close fight. The bartender was awesome too. A Bridgeport native, but not in the "typical" way. He said that his family's owned the bar since the 1960s, and he grew up in that place. The crowd's pretty much the same: people are talkative and cheerful here, as opposed to the usual stares we got at other places. The bartender gave us a free beer (each) and two free shots (each). Probably the best thing about this place was that this old dude came up to play a song on the jukebox. It was broken, but he had MEMORIZED the number to punch for the Tom Waits song he wanted to play. Bottom line is this. If you like escaping your comfort zone and like bars like the Chipp Inn (real people will talk to you!), this place is right up your alley. Or, down your alley, in this case.
(5)Martha Z.
Bring your cash and your designated driver, because you'll need both for your visit to the south side gem. If you're looking for a low-frills but high impact drinking experience this be it. Bernice's was very accommodating when Rachel H's brat pack birthday troupe stormed this place. I'm sure the regulars that have been glued to their stools hadn't seen such sparkle sequin madness flashing through the doors since 1989. Cheap jukebox, stocked with Tom Waits, sweet bartender and el cheapo drinks. The owner/manager of the bar didn't seem to pleased with my companion and I blowing whistle sounds on the mouths of beers but all in all we had an excellent time.
(5)Bobby O.
This cozy no frills establishment is a fun watering hole. There is an eclectic feel yet its a bar!
(5)Jack B.
Great bar. Cozy, friendly, cheap, live music. Even though it's small, we got a table around 10:30 on a Saturday night. Had a great time.
(4)Jennifer S.
Ah, Bernice's!!! This is a great bar. People talk to you. They have an interesting array of beer. They have an interesting array of customers. In Bernice's I have discussed many things with many people and Mike and his brother rock. I recommend their St. Pat's party on actual St. Patrick's Day and bingo night.
(4)Aaron K.
Nice, relaxed, friendly, local. Note: Cash-only. Credit card indication is wrong.
(5)Carlo L.
Cheap prices, good beer and every once in a while the jukebox is free! Best bet in Bridgeport!
(5)Andy M.
This was a nice bar for one that has to ring you in. About the only other bar I have ever seen that you are required to ring was on Laramie in Cicero. I don't know if this means something about the neighborhoods or not. The ber was cheap and the bar was old looking. Not a real big place and only about one large group of friends can fit comfortable at a time, so only go there with no more than one other person.
(3)Emily N.
so let me preface this by saying that I am a SOUTHSIDER through and through. Also, I am definitely not a hipster, scenester, clubber, or any other kind of ER except when tagged on the end of southside. What that means is, I'm a fan of the dive bar. Nothing fancy. All I need is a kick ass bartender who serves kick ass beer and loads kick ass tunes on the box. This place offers all three. It's a trifecta I tell ya! Mike is the most killer bartender EVER! He's super cool and I can typically count on him him buyin at least one round if not more. The jukebox has a little bit for everybody. Did I mention the beer selection? some of the best around. And while I practically live off my debit card and very rarely have cash, I like that Bernices is cash only. It falls right in line with the old school dive bar vibe. Everybody here is super friendly, staff and patrons alike. I HEART BERNICES! Hands down my fav bar. P.S. you have to be buzzed in - how freakin charming!
(5)Nicholas R.
Talk about a Bridgeport dive bar fantasy. I stumbled into this place the other night by my lonesome self when I was feeling a little saucy. I don't usually make it out to the Southside and I question my morals as to why when I visit spots like Bernice and John's. Pro's: It's a buzzer bar, cost of beer seems fair, there's tons of shit scattered all over the place for you to stare at, the bartenders rule, and it didn't have that newly found "ass" smell that so many bars have now that the smoking ban has been put into place. Con: I have to sleep on a friends scummy futon in Bridgeport because I got wasted and was unable to drive back north.
(5)Jason C.
This place is the best bar in Bridgeport. Wednesday night Bingo is the best! Cheap drinks, heavy pours, and great people. Couldnt ask for more.
(5)pilsen t.
Bernice's is a great bar. Friendly staff and cheap drink specials. Love the bands that play there. Especially The Link Wrays. Ring the buzzer, come on in.
(5)Tony L.
Fantastic place. Friendly barkeep, cheap beer, what more could you ask?
(4)J. N.
While my roommate and boyfriend like this bar more then I do, I have to say it is a pretty good place to go. The drinks are cheap, and the staff is great. Very friendly and fast, they comp every third or fourth drink... you know, like bars should. When there are Sox games the girlfriend of one of Bernice's sons cooks up some killer food.... and it's free. Thursday is open mic night and Saturdays is Metal night. I am soooo not "metal" but I still enjoy this place on Saturdays. Everyone is genuine and nice, even when sporting scary jewelry and all black.
(4)Deborah W.
Growing up in Bridgeport, this bar was renowned for the sexy & half naked girls they would put on their matchbooks with the advertisement for the bar. Unfortunately, those matches are gone but it's still one of the last of the old school Bridgeport taverns left in the neighborhood. Traditionally Bridgeport was known for having a bar or church on every corner. In fact, on the back of David's restaurant, that was located on 31st & Halsted before it burnt down to the ground, boasted the fact that Bridgeport had more churches per square mile than anywhere in the world. Unfortunately that is no longer true. To get a taste of yesteryear's flavor head over to Bernice's tavern. After getting buzzed in and walking through the magical green door, you'll travel back in time to a Lithuanian immigrant style blue collar bar with nick knacks, mirror behind the bar, tin ceiling tiles and hand written sign clutter. They have everything you could want from Bud beer to a Lithuanian beer like Baltas or even a Strong Bow English Cider and they have everything from open mike night to scheduled bands. They have something to appeal to everyone.
(4)Joe R.
About 3 years ago, we had moved to Bridgeport,albeit with some trepidation. Don't get me wrong, neighborhood was friendly enough, but I'd heard it was a little clannish. Well, aside from a couple neighbors we won over (helping little old ladies by shoveling their snow works wonders) I found Bridgeport a warm and nice community. And Bernices Tavern is the warm and nice headquarters in Bridgeport, for sure. First time I walked in there, I felt at home. Over the last few years, I've had bartenders offer rides home, (thanks Mike) been invited to various regulars parties, gone to White Sox games. I love this place. Bernice herself is pretty cool, very low-key but you can tell she's got a lively sense of humor. The only bar that I've seen not one single bad moment in. Their motto is anyone can come in, at least once....
(5)Nino M.
I have been going here for such a long time. You have to be buzzed in but eh, no big deal about that. Once inside the decor is so totally unique, and original artwork hanging on the walls it's a nice place to drink. I never get there on time on Thursday nights to Jam. I work second shift and get out at midnight. Mike is a great bartender. Like to drink in Bridgeport? Go to Bernice's.
(5)Jake B.
This is the best bar in the neighborhood.
(5)Frank G.
This is as good as it gets in 'ol hardscrabble. I have been going to this joint for almost a decade now and keep going even though I have moved out of the neighborhood. I am fond of the strong pours of brothers steve, and mike. Their mother is bernice. Try thier tasty lithuanian beers such as Svtyruys, or Baltas, there even some golden pheasent, and a some Czech beers too. One of the few places to still "comp" you a drink for spending some cash there.
(5)Pete W.
This is a dive bar...and a great one. There is nothing like being in a neighborhood bar in a strange town and being treated like an old friend. The owner Steve was fantastic on both nights I was there. The first night was a Saturday and the live music was tremendous, especially in the cozy confines of Bernice's Tavern. The Hoyle Brothers were performing what I can only describe as some kind of swing/country/honky tonk mixture and it was quirky/awesome.
(5)Mel G.
First bar I went to in Chicago. The drinks were reasonable priced, and the night we went, there was live music including a non-offensive cover band. (That's about as complimentary as it gets for me and cover bands). Met one of the owners who bought us a drink. Not too shabby in my opinion. Definitely made me feel at home in a great big new city. Oh and the stools were comfy. I'm short so that's not usually the case. :)
(4)Marcos L.
This is what the Southside is all about. Very friendly place. Never had a bad time. Love the buzz-in part; not many of those left. Great place to take in a Sox game.
(5)Lance V.
I came for the open mic, i liked the open mic, i'll be back for the open mic. And at 9pm they shared some home cooking. : )
(5)john d.
Great Beers, nice people, good music. Really nice neighborhood folks and family run for a least two generations now. Thursday nights are when it really steps off. Don't even think about asking for credit, straight cash baby.
(5)Rob R.
Back in rougher days in Bridgeport, this place reputedly used to be about the only place you could expect to never see someone get a bottle smashed over their head. These days, it's host to a weekly open mic (Thursdays) and the same kinds of cowboy bands you'd get at the Clipper (Saturdays) in a more intimate setting. The juke box will play some of the same. There's a good choice of beers, including a couple of unpronounceable Lithuanian options and a tasty Czech lager called Samson. This is a neighborhood bar, not a dive bar.
(4)Maria P.
Have to say that this bar is just great. Great atmosphere. People there are always nice and you'll end up chatting with strangers in no time. Drinks are strong and cheap. Went there for the first time recently (and I've been to quite a few bars in the city) and this one just struck me in all the right ways.
(5)Terri M.
A happenin' place in the heart of Bridgeport. Mike the owner and bartender seems like a great guy. His and his brother's artwork hang on the wall. There's a small performance area at the back with extra guitars for anyone who gets the urge on open mic night. The atmosphere is just perfect with an antique cash register, beautiful mirror behind the bar, and tin ceiling tiles. The beer selection is also fantastic with a lot of interesting beers from Lithuania and Slovakia.
(5)Eileen D.
I haven't been to Bernice's for a little while now, but I did enjoy the open mic Thursdays and the selection of Eastern European beers.
(4)Andrew F.
Giving five out five stars implies perfection, which this place is not. close enough tho'
(5)Jacqueline K.
I can't say enough good things about this place! I love that you have to ring the buzzer to get in, great jukebox, open mike on thursday is really cool. Super cheap, decent selection, very friendly service. If you are on the South side, this is the only place to go - you will be hard pressed to find a bar like this anywhere in Chicago.
(5)scott a.
Ring the buzzer and come in. It's nothing fancy, it's a bar in Bridgeport, and it's great. Everyone's friendly, they play pretty good music whenever I've been there, and we love drinking the Lithuanian beer we can't pronounce.
(5)John M.
A Bridgeport classic! Family owned and operated for seemingly forever. Take a look around at the antiques and collectibles inside the bar, there are a lot of really cool things. The service is friendly and the crowd is awesome. It makes me proud to live in Chicago when I encounter businesses like this one.
(5)Stephanie K.
Played both the Cubs & Sox games--although being on the South Side, the Cubs crowd was a bit sparse. Great ambience--and a TON of stuff to gaze at while sipping your brew. And the people were very friendly--kind of like the Cheers of Chicago.
(5)Six B.
been there a couple a times....plan on going back a lot more. wednesday bingo!! lots of alt country bands playing shows there---my secret pleasure! they carry 3 flloyds--my favorite! please don't get overrun by hipsters! please!
(3)