Bernice’s Tavern

Dive bars don’t come steeped in history much richer than Bernice’s Tavern, a South Side Chicago institution that can trace its roots back to a funeral parlor run out of the same space prior to 1910. The space transformed into a bar named Adam’s Place in 1933 before John Badauskas (a bartender there at the time) purchased the space in 1965 and renamed it Bernice’s Place in honor of his wife. Upon John’s passing, Bernice and son Steve took over before Bernice passed on as well in 2017. Today, Bernice’s Tavern is famous for Stingo, owner Steve’s spin on Bingo as well as a handful of other events like open mic nights and live music. Bernice’s Tavern also holds a Halloween party each year that grows in reputation with each iteration.

The Basics

3238 S Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60608